Expert: Angela - 4/17/2006

Question
Hi Angela:

I am stitching a wedding sampler from a kit that provided Linen. I have never stitched on Linen before and have a limited amount of time to complete my project so no time to learn right now. Is it possible to substitute Aida for the Linen? If so what thread count of Aida would I use if the Linen is 28 count? Thanks very much.  Katie

Answer
Hello, Katie :)

Stitching on linen is just as easy as stitching on Aida cloth, except you'll be stitching over 2 threads of the linen.  Start your project as you would if you were stitching on Aida by folding it 1/2 and then 1/2 again to find your center.  You WILL need to secure the edges of the fabric before stitching, and I highly recommend using Fray Check or Stop Fray.  Just squeeze a thin line of this along the very edge of the fabric, and just use a bit extra on the corners to prevent them from fraying.  I do that alot.

When you begin stitching on the linen, just stitch over 2 threads of the linen instead of 1 thread.  You can use 2 strands of the floss for this project.  I've done a Mirabilia project for a friend of mine, and the work was absolutely gorgeous when it was completed.

You CAN substitute the linen for the Aida, however, you may need to buy it off the bolt if you can't find it in a package that's large enough.  Just be sure to buy enough for the project and then an extra 6" around the project itself for framing.

I hope that helps! :)  Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,
Angela :)