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Cross Stitch/Questions Answered by Expert Kris

SubjectDate Asked
counted cross stitch2/9/2011
  Q: Are there any hints for minimizing build-up of floss when doing a complicated pattern w/a lot of ...
  A: Penny, The best way to prevent is to not allow the thread to travel. It can be very frustrating to ...
using alternate color number2/3/2011
  Q: I have a large supply of DMC floss, for my new project I would like to re-use some of these. Is ...
  A: Margaret, Unfortunately I do not know of any easy way. DMC has a website that you can check out. At ...
cross stitch graph1/31/2011
  Q: If I want the finished piece to measure 277 x 300 stitches on 14 count, how large will my pattern ...
  A: Jayne, I am not sure that I understand what you want. I thinm you are wanting the cut size of the ...
Cross Stitch backing1/29/2011
  Q: I am new to cross stitching and I am making an adornment for a baby blanket that I would like to be ...
  A: Caitlin - I am not quite sure I understand. I have seen things attached with velcro to blankets ...
backstitching1/22/2011
  Q: I have finished cross stitching a picture and am now working on the backstitching. The packet asks ...
  A: Sarah, Backstitches can be as long or short as you want them to be. If it looks better for them to ...
Thomas Kinkade Cross Stitch1/12/2011
  Q: I have the pattern Beyond Spring Gate, chart #90066. My problem is that the pattern shows a spade ...
  A: Delene, You will need to contact the company that produced the chart. I think candamar designs does ...
Using a 18 ct design on 28 ct fabric1/12/2011
  Q: I am just about to start a baby blanket using a design that calls for 18ct evenweave. I like the ...
  A: Lisa, I too love 28 count! The problem will be that when you work on 28 count, you work over 2 and ...
enlarging a counted cross stitch pattern1/1/2011
  Q: I want to do a counted cross stitch pattern on my square dance skirt, but the waste cloth I use is ...
  A: Lynn, I am so sorry that it has taken me so long to get back to you. My father was admitted to the ...
ironing finished piece12/22/2010
  Q: I have several finished pieces on 14 count Aida from a kit. There are creases in several spots and ...
  A: Barbara, Sorry that it has taken me so long to get back to you. This is such a crazy time of year, ...
Aida fabric too small11/30/2010
  Q: I'm a returning cross stitcher trying to make a Christmas stocking for my new grandson. I have a ...
  A: Jane, Sorry, I have tried answering you a couple of times now and it not going through. I hope this ...
Cross stitching on washable items, like towel and aprons11/26/2010
  Q: I've just begun cross stitching and I'm only doing practical items like kitchen towels. I'm ...
  A: Nichol, You can iron on some interfacing to the back of the piece that will help protect the ...
older cross stitch holiday angels11/21/2010
  Q: Probably in the 1980's I stitched half of a project. I gave away all my supplies including the book ...
  A: Renee, I have not seen this pattern before. If it came from a book, the book is probably no longer ...
Cross Stitch11/20/2010
  Q: I am trying to cross stitch a Christmas stocking for my new grandson. My problem it is calling for ...
  A: Jackie, I think it is telling you to increase the outline by 160% just for finishing purposes. You ...
using graph paper for a wedding sampler11/14/2010
  Q: Please help. I just finished a wedding sampler which so far is beautiful. I now have to stitch the ...
  A: Ronnie, You can use graph paper to layout the design. Most charts come with a backstitch alphabet. ...
Caron Watercolour floss11/11/2010
  Q: I have a pattern that utilizes Watercolour #017 Blue Lavendar from the Caron Collection, but would ...
  A: Lori, I can help with the Caron, but the perle cotton will depend on the dyes in the Watercolor. I ...
cross stick piano cover shrank11/8/2010
  Q: My mother made a cover for the top of our piano (roughly 5 ft by 14 inches)- -cross sticked border ...
  A: Beth, I am not sure if you can stretch it. I would try taking the piece and laying it face down on ...
How much linen should I buy?11/4/2010
  Q: I have purchased a pattern that calls for 28 count Cauldron Cashel Linen 160Wx150H. I am not sure ...
  A: Svetlana, When working on 28 count linen, you usually use a technique where 1 stitch covers 4 ...
Evenweave to Aida11/4/2010
  Q: I just bought a pattern and realized that it calls for evenweave. My eyesight is not the greatest ...
  A: Kathy, If you want to use the 14 count, it will be much larger than on the 25 count. To figure ...
Can Aida be turned sideways10/20/2010
  Q: Is there a particular way that Aida should be oriented? If I have a design that is 22 x 17. Can I ...
  A: Debra, Aida is the same both ways, so no particular way it should be turned. It will be fine to ...
X stitch pattern10/20/2010
  Q: Help!In Canada in 2000 I bought & x stitched a kit with an angel on. She had long plaits & her halo ...
  A: Beth, I too checked everywhere I could online, including a couple of distributor's websites and ...
converting 14 count pattern to 18 count10/19/2010
  Q: I have a pattern that is to be done on 14 count fabric, but the squared afghan I have purchased is ...
  A: Angela, You really don't have to convert anything. THe design will just be smaller because it is on ...
fabric10/8/2010
  Q: How much fabric do i need to get if the design area is 160x242 and i want it on 14 count aida??its ...
  A: Roxanne - I wil be happy to help you with this. Figuring out fabric size is easy if you you use ...
Fabric Changing10/6/2010
  Q: I'm just starting on a Mirabilia patern but, once i didn't find the 32 count Chestnut Linen, I'm ...
  A: Paula, No, you will want to work over 1 on 14 count. When you work over 2 on a 32 count linen, your ...
cross stitch photo9/29/2010
  Q: I will be cs my granddaughters photo 11 x 14 18 count. how may threads and what size and type of ...
  A: This sounds like a beautiful project! On 18 count fabric, I would use 2 threads and a 22 or a 24 ...
Converting a chart9/7/2010
  Q: I started a chart that was a frame for a picture. The directions said to stitch on 14 count cloth. ...
  A: Amy, First let me apologize for taking so long to answer your question. My father has been very ...
MAKING A CROSS STITCH PILLOW9/1/2010
  Q: I HAVE DESIGN A CROSS STITCH FSU INDIAN MASCOT FACE ON AIDA 22 CT CLOTH AND I WANT TO MAKE A PILLOW ...
  A: Julie, I hope I can help you with this question. I am not quite sure if I understand it correctly. ...
Fabric measuring8/29/2010
  Q: I am trying to cross stich using a pattern from a book and I've never had to buy cloth before. My ...
  A: Britni- I will be happy to help with this question! The dimensions you are giving I believe are ...
D Morgan I'll Be Loving You Counted Cross Stitch Kit8/20/2010
  Q: Kris - I have been searching for D Morgan's I'll Be Loving You counted cross stitch kit. It is ...
  A: Eva, Hi there! I did a search of my own and could find nothing of that name. But I did notice that ...
Lugana vs. Linen8/10/2010
  Q: I am getting ready to try out a new Hardanger project that calls for Lugana. My last Hardanger ...
  A: Luguana is not as stretchy as Jobelan, but not as sturdy as linen. It is very soft. I think it is ...
counted cross stitch stocking7/20/2010
  Q: im looking to make a stocking for my new great neice, would like to fine one in a florida motif, ...
  A: Toliese, I did a search for stockings with a Florida motif and could not find anything. I wish I ...
pattern modificationa7/4/2010
  Q: I am looking for someone who can modify a pattern for me - I am willing to pay them a fee. I am a ...
  A: Donna, I personally do not know of anyone that can does this. I can suggest a couple of shop owners ...
Back Stitch Motif6/28/2010
  Q: I'm currently working on my first project and got to a point where I'm working on the background of ...
  A: First, let me apologize for taking so long to get back to you. I had a death in the family, followed ...
cross stitch6/5/2010
  Q: I'm working on 36ct linen using DMC, over 2. Should I use one strand or 2 of DMC? The chart says ...
  A: Adele, I would use 2 strands of DMC on the 36 count if working over 2 for full coverage. If I was ...
Fabric too short5/28/2010
  Q: I started working on a cross stitching piece and it's about 3 pages in length. I am almost done with ...
  A: Nikki, I am not sure that you can add fabric without it being very obvious. How short are you going ...
design help5/16/2010
  Q: I purchased a cross stitch pattern (counted) and need help with the following 1) I would like to ...
  A: Donna, I can try to help you with this! As far as the hair, you can try to redesign the hair. Try ...
Cross Stitch5/2/2010
  Q: I am stitching a Christmas stocking, Sugar N Spice from the Better Homes & Gardens Cross Stitch & ...
  A: Ruby, Hi! First, let me apologize for not getting back to you sooner. Life got in the way. Now, ...
Fabric Types4/17/2010
  Q: I have been cross stitching for almost 25 years and was always a fan of Aida. Recently, I switched ...
  A: Beverly, The biggest difference in these fabrics are what they are made of - cotton vs. polyster ...
larger count fabrics4/8/2010
  Q: I am wanting to use larger count fabrics to stitch while traveling by auto this summer. How many ...
  A: I will be happy to help you with your questions. Lizzie Kate patterns look really good on the larger ...
transfer grid paper for cross stitch3/24/2010
  Q: We only have 2 craft stores in the town that I live in and neither one carry transfer grid paper. ...
  A: Alma, I am not sure what you are asking. Are you looking to able to transfer the design onto a ...
washing cloth3/24/2010
  Q: Do you wash adia cloth before you start your cross stitch project?
  A: Grace, I usually wash my fabric before I stitch, but only after I have bound the edges. I use a ...
conversion3/4/2010
  Q: I have a pattern from Heritage Stitchcraft that says "Worked on Zweigart fabric using DMC stranded ...
  A: Ray, I will be happy to help you with this! Typically, when you work on 27 count, you are stitching ...
I accidently used 14ct instead of 18ct!!!!3/1/2010
  Q: Help!! I accidently used 14 ct aida instead of the 18ct recommended by the pattern. How will this ...
  A: I will be happy to help you with this problem. Working on 14 or 18 count, you usually use 2 strands ...
18 count linen to 28 count linen conversion2/20/2010
  Q: I would like to know how to convert a pattern from 18 count to 28 count linen. If I normally would ...
  A: Diane, First let me apologize for it taking me so long to get back to you. I have been at the ...
chart size2/15/2010
  Q: the pattern I have is based on using 14 count fabric and the chart stitches are 177x209 what does ...
  A: Carolyn, I will be happy to help with this question. If you are working on 32 count, I have to ...
material required2/14/2010
  Q: emma
  A: Emma, Hi there! I will be happy to help with your question! Please remember that in the US we still ...
fabric size1/31/2010
  Q: I am doing a Christmas stocking as it calls for 25 count fabric but I want to use 14 count. The ...
  A: Michelle, I love Christmas stockings. You said that the pattern calls for 25 count fabric. The ...
old cross stitch1/28/2010
  Q: I have a old cross stitch project I did about 20 yrs ago for my parents...I have recently recieved ...
  A: Arline - Please do not use bleach!!! Try making a paste of oxyclean and ivory liquid and brushing ...
Cross stitch1/20/2010
  Q: I just finished a cross stitch baby quilt for my new granddaughter. I am a beginner and only had ...
  A: Linda, Sounds like an adorable project! Unfortunately there is not a particular product to use. You ...
French knots1/14/2010
  Q: Try as I might I just cant do french knots and I really need step by step instructions
  A: I hope I can help! I have both a written description and a diagram for you. I will attach the links ...
fabric counts1/13/2010
  Q: Can you explain the difference between the 14 18 and 25 fabric counts and how I can change them to ...
  A: I will be happy to help you with this! Fabric count is the number of squares per inch. Usually you ...
Stich count1/9/2010
  Q: I have 36count linen. Instructions to use one strand over two. What does this mean?
  A: I will be happy to help you with this. When you stitch on a 14 count fabric, you stitch over one. ...
converting linen to something else1/9/2010
  Q: The pattern calls for a 19"X15" Blue Spruce Cashel Linen stituched over 2. Is there is blue fabric ...
  A: I hope I can help with this. There are several shades of blues in 14 and 18 count Aida. My best ...
cross stitch over one on linen 30 count1/6/2010
  Q: I'm starting a rather large piece on 30-count linen which I want to work 'over one'. Should I work ...
  A: Lisa, Hi there! Sounds like an ambitious project! When I work on linen, I always complete each ...
lugana to aida1/5/2010
  Q: I have a pattern that requires 27 x inch 25 count lugana. I'd rather use aida as my eyes are that ...
  A: Sallie, Hi there! I am a little confused. I think your pattern calls for 25 count luguana. Usually ...
wrinkles in aida cloth12/28/2009
  Q: When I washed a finished project I wrung it out. I did not twist it, just squeezed it in my hands. ...
  A: Laurie- I am sorry it took me so long to get back to you. I have been out of town and did not have ...
needlepoint christmas stocking12/26/2009
  Q: I made two needlepoint Christmas stockings in the early 80's. I now want a coordinating one for my ...
  A: Susan - Most needlepoint kits are now made by Dimensions and Bucilla. Both have websites with ...
Post cards pattern12/9/2009
  Q: I am looking for the patterns for the States postcards that came out several years ago. My mom had ...
  A: Monica, I think your best bet might be to check Ebay or a cross stitch auction site. Also, you can ...
yellowed borders of ctd cross stitch picture11/28/2009
  Q: Is there a way to clean a picture that has yellowed. My mother had done this picture about 20 years ...
  A: Mary, My only suggestion is to make a paste of oxi-clean and water. Put it on the yellowed edges ...
CrossStitch Afghan11/23/2009
  Q: I was cross-stitching an alphabet pattern on an afghan. Do I need to line it when I am finished or ...
  A: You do not have to line the back of the afghan. Just try to make it as neat as possible and remember ...
vinyl aida cloth10/25/2009
  Q: My elderly mother uses vinyl aida cloth for her small projects. She thinks it may have been a ...
  A: Joanie, I have not seen vinyl aida in quite awhile. I can recommend a couple of places to look. ...
cross stitch fabric and color10/24/2009
  Q: First I am looking for Lugana flesh-toned 25-ct cross stitch cloth for cross stitching faces on ...
  A: Pat, I am not sure what other color to use - maybe Apricot. Have you tried using an online store to ...
aida cloth10/21/2009
  Q: My pattern calls for using 30 ct linen, but I would like to convert it to aida, so what count aida ...
  A: I will be happy to help you with your question. When you stitch on linen, you usually use a ...
Using Linen10/15/2009
  Q: I am a first time Linen user and I am a bit confused. Firstly, I am using 28 count and 2 strands of ...
  A: Jane, First let me say that the only stupid questions are unasked ones! Now for your totally ...
pattern of a teen age girl soccer player9/30/2009
  Q: I can't find a pattern of a teenage girl soccer player. Can you help. Thank you.
  A: Alice - I think I might be able to help. I think Stoney Creek Designs or Pegasus Designs might have ...
Cross stictch fabric9/26/2009
  Q: What does 32 count mean (for irish linen fabric). I have a lot of different linen and aida fabric ...
  A: Anna- Hi there! The different counts refer to how many squares per inch there are in the fabric. ...
cross stitch9/19/2009
  Q: I love doing cross stitch. After I done it for awhile I start getting this pain in my shoulder. The ...
  A: Debbie - I wish I could help! I too have neck and shoulder pain when I stitch. Or I did. I bought a ...
convet 28-count evenweave to 14 count aida9/13/2009
  Q: I have found the perfect pattern for my mums birthday (in 2.5wk) The pattern is on 28count evenweave ...
  A: Sarah, First let me apologize for taking so long to get back to you. We had an unexpected death in ...
32 ct Laguana8/28/2009
  Q: I am getting ready to stitch Crystal Symphony by Nora Corbet on 32 ct laguana. Would it look best to ...
  A: Judy, What a beautiful piece! On 32 count I would use 2 strands over 2 if I was working on linen. ...
How to determine size of material to cut.8/26/2009
  Q: I have a pattern that is 462 by 125. I won't to stitch it on 18 count. What size do I need to cut ...
  A: Linda, I will be happy to help you with your question! To find fabric size you divide the stitch ...
First time Linen user8/22/2009
  Q: The pattern I got for my next cross stitch says to do it on 25 count Dublin Linen/Evenweave over 1. ...
  A: 25 count linen is wonderful! The difference in linen and evenweave is that linen is a natural fiber ...
overlap8/18/2009
  Q: I'm doing the Last Supper picture in cross stitching and it says "shaded portion indicates overlap ...
  A: Debbie, I will be happy to help you with this question! Because the pattern is so large it is ...
tweeding8/14/2009
  Q: I am doing a cross stitch project which calls for tweeding. The instructions on the pattern are not ...
  A: Jem - First let me apologize for taking so long to get back to you. It has a been very busy here. ...
Problem finding center of pattern7/27/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a cross stitch pattern - that was supposed to be a kit, but was not - and it ...
  A: Michelle, This piece sounds huge! Usually when a pattern has multiple pages the pattern actually ...
14 Count Aida Black 16x227/26/2009
  Q: Have Dimensions kit 72425 which indicates that a piece of 14 count fabric 16x22 in black is ...
  A: Arla, There are several sources for black 14 count. Your best bet would be a needlework shop. If ...
Conversion7/25/2009
  Q: The pattern is to be done on 27 ct and I want to convert to 14 ct. The design size for 27 ct is 12" ...
  A: Ann, I need a little more information before I can answer. Usually when a pattern is worked on ...
african sunset7/18/2009
  Q: How do I get just a copy of African Sunset? If you know this please let me know. Thanks,
  A: Wanda, I believe that this chart only comes in kit form from Dimensions. I think you can order it ...
"stitch over 2 threads"7/8/2009
  Q: what does this mean to stitch over 2 threads? I am going to cross stitch on a receiving blanket that ...
  A: Theresa, I will be happy to help you with this! Stitching over 2 means that instead of your stitch ...
replacement instructions for kit7/5/2009
  Q: I have a Sunset cross stitch kit that I have been working on for quite some time. The # on the kit ...
  A: Boy did you put me to work! I found out that Dimensions actually either owns or produces the Sunset ...
french knot7/4/2009
  Q: I have tried doing a french knot many times and it looks like a backstitch. I wrap the thread ...
  A: Alison, French knots are not my favorite either. I learned to wrap the thread twice around the ...
african sunset7/3/2009
  Q: i have a african sunset,18count white aida fabric.and i would like to change onto a natural linen.is ...
  A: What a beautiful piece that is! Good news! There is 18 count linen that comes in a variety of ...
Vanity set6/29/2009
  Q: Iam looking for a vanity set - brush, mirror to cross-stitch on the back of. Do you know where ...
  A: Bobette, I have never seen anything like that around here, but I can recommmend an on-line store ...
Sealing edges of graph for cross stitching4/21/2009
  Q: Which is better? Using fraying glue to glue edges or stitching edges by sewing machine?
  A: I hope I am able to help you. I prefer to stitch the edges of a large piece. The fray chek is good ...
baby blanket4/20/2009
  Q: What is the softest fabric to use for a baby afghan? I see all the prepackaged blankets in the ...
  A: Lia, The prepackaged blankets are usually very soft. The most important thing to remember that you ...
aida bookmark sides4/17/2009
  Q: I enjoy cross-stitching bookmarks on Aida scraps and always have trouble finishing off the edges so ...
  A: Margaret, My best suggestion is a button hole stitch. Try www.about.com for a good explanation of ...
Aida Cloth Count4/17/2009
  Q: Is Aida cloth, which has 8 squares per inch, better than that which has say 16 square per inch? If ...
  A: Aida cloth comes in many different sizes. A design stitched on 8 count will be twice the size of ...
Lost chart4/9/2009
  Q: Looking for designer: I just started counted cross stitching again and realize I have lost the ...
  A: Becky, I am not sure I have ever seen this chart, but it sounds beautiful. I am sorry I can't help ...
counted cross stitch3/18/2009
  Q: I am working on a wedding cross stitch and I have to do a trellis stitch. Can you eplain how to do ...
  A: Shelia, First let me apologize for not getting back to you sooner. I have been very involved with a ...
floss2/21/2009
  Q: how many pieces of floss do I use in cotton material? verses the cross stitch material? I am cross ...
  A: I would try three strands. Try stitching and area with a block of the same color. This should let ...
linen2/15/2009
  Q: i have a pattern done on 32 count linen. the design area is 14 3/4 x 17 1/4". 234 x 276 stitches. if ...
  A: Jane - To figure finished design size, you divide the stitch count by the fabric count (or half ...
cross stitch2/12/2009
  Q: I have the Dimensions pattern #3736 Native Heritage and it has two different fabrics that came with ...
  A: Lori, You get to choose between the two fabrics. Stitching over two is a term that means instead of ...
fabric count2/9/2009
  Q: If a pattern calls for 32 count fabric (2 X 2) and you use 28 count (2 X 2) will the finished ...
  A: JJ - Your picture will not be distorted, just larger. To find out how much larger, simply divide ...
fabric choosing/stitching over 2 threads1/30/2009
  Q: I just downloaded a pattern called Isaiah 40:31 by Donna Giampa. I have cross stitched basic designs ...
  A: Marie, Your questions are not silly. The 12.5 count fabric is the 25 count. When you stitch over ...
fabric count1/26/2009
  Q: I am going to saramoon pattern and I am doing it on linen. I would like to do the pattern ...
  A: Gail, First, let me apologize for not answering you sooner. I have been a little under the weather. ...
converting size of aida1/10/2009
  Q: I bought a kit for a Christmas stocking. The finished size is a huge 13" wide by 20" tall. (My ...
  A: Donna I will be happy to help you. I dont know the exact stitch count, but if the finished piece is ...
DMC Thread1/2/2009
  Q: I working on a project that ask you to use DMC thread. When I go to the store to get the numbers I ...
  A: Shanna, I think I understand what you are asking. Your local store does not have all the colors, ...
two colors for same stitch12/19/2008
  Q: I'm new to cross stitching but I believe I started with a complex project for my skill level. My ...
  A: Lola, It sounds like a quarter stitch. If you are working on Aida, then you will come up in the ...
Cleaning Floss12/3/2008
  Q: Tea has accidently spilt on my floss. How do I clean the floss, so that I can proceed to complete ...
  A: Deb If you are using regular DMC - you can wash it in the sink with a little ivory liquid and rinse ...
25 ct fabric11/30/2008
  Q: can i go to a bigger fabric without messing up the design i can't see the holes on the 25ct fabric
  A: Kristen - You can change the size of the fabric without changing the design. It will change the ...
Confusion regarding color designation on pattern11/25/2008
  Q: I am stitching a pattern that is about 15 years old and it has a designation for one of the symbols ...
  A: I believe that color is referring to a Krenick metallic. It is available at most stitching stores. ...
Bleeding of Red Thread on Crosstitch Fabric11/11/2008
  Q: How do I get the red dye that bled out of certain red thread in my crosstitch material. I thought I ...
  A: Michelle, A dye magnet is a piece of cloth. It is usually around where the dyes are. It comes in a ...
Bleeding of Red Thread on Crosstitch Fabric11/11/2008
  Q: How do I get the red dye that bled out of certain red thread in my crosstitch material. I thought I ...
  A: Michelle, My best suggestion would be a Tide to Go pen or washing the piece again with a dye ...
cross stitch11/6/2008
  Q: I am looking for someone to finish a project for me. Do you have any contacts for me?
  A: Laurie, First, let me apologize for not getting to you sooner. I have been out of town. I don't ...
Linen to Aida10/20/2008
  Q: I have a couple of patterns that call for the use of linen. I have never used linen and was ...
  A: Olivia, When you work on linen, you use a technique called over 2. It means that instead of covering ...
cross-stitch9/20/2008
  Q: i have recently bought a cross stitch is on linen. i am used to aida. the kit contents says 14 ...
  A: Sally, Typically when you work on linen - you will work "over 2". That means that you will bring ...
10 count9/13/2008
  Q: My mother has asked me to search the web for 10 x 10 (per square inch). I guess that is 10 count? ...
  A: Christine, There are several on-line stores that should be able to help you. I would suggest ...
22 count Aida8/21/2008
  Q: I have been cross stitching for the past few years. I am now working in a project that uses 22 count ...
  A: Donna, Two strands is fine for 22 count over 1. It will give you very complete coverage. I did a ...
22 count Aida8/19/2008
  Q: I have been cross stitching for the past few years. I am now working in a project that uses 22 count ...
  A: Donna, I usually stitch over 2 (each stitch covers 4 squares) like you do on evenweave. The best ...
Bucilla color question8/14/2008
  Q: I'm just about ready to start on the Bucilla Foorprints counted cross stitch, but I have one ...
  A: Madalena, I am not sure how you could do that. Bucilla usually has a number in parenthesis behind ...
Miniature cross stitch7/28/2008
  Q: After years of doing counted cross stitch, I discovered dollhouse miniatures and ever since my ...
  A: MaryLynne, Are you using one strand of DMC? If not, try that first. Different DMC colors have ...
Cross Stitch Tree Skirt7/13/2008
  Q: Where would I look for material(Aida) to cross stitch a Christmas tree skirt with my own characters? ...
  A: I hope I can help you with this question. I know that Aida does come in a 45" and 60" width on ...
linen vs aida7/4/2008
  Q: i have always worked with Aida. I just bought a wedding sample and i noticed it said Cream Belfast ...
  A: Ronnie, Don't apologize. The only stupid questions are unasked questions! I will do my best to ...
linen vs aida7/4/2008
  Q: i have always worked with Aida. I just bought a wedding sample and i noticed it said Cream Belfast ...
  A: Ronnie, Sounds like a beautiful piece. 16 count aida is the same size as 32 count linen. On the ...
converting 18ct to 14 ct.6/21/2008
  Q: I have a pattern using 18 count Aida, design size being 12x14, and fabric size being 16x18. I would ...
  A: Lori, I will be happy to help you with this. Because the design size is 12 x 14, I am guessing that ...
material size5/10/2008
  Q: I have picture stitch count 194 x 239. I want to make on size 16 aida but don't know what size to ...
  A: Edna, I will be happy to help you with your question. If you are wanting to a figure material size, ...
How much aida to use5/8/2008
  Q: I am cross stitching a sampler that calls for 25 count linen, however I plan to use 14 count aida. ...
  A: Chris, I will be happy to help. Anytime you need to figure fabric size, simply divide the stich ...
Starting cross stitch in the middle4/15/2008
  Q: The patterns for cross stitch always state to start stitching in the middle of the pattern. My ...
  A: Barbara, I usually start in the middle and work towards the right and bottom. I tend to try to do ...
design my own pattern4/14/2008
  Q: I want to design my own cross stitch pattern, but i have no artistic abilities, its just in my head. ...
  A: Renee, I have designed a couple of pieces. There are software programs that can help. I would ...
cross stitch bread cloths3/5/2008
  Q: I would like to know where i can buy bread covers to cross stitch the kind that can be used as bread ...
  A: Donna, I know that Charles Craft is the maker of bread cloths and napkins. You can check out their ...
working over two threads of fabric3/5/2008
  Q: I have a pattern that says to use four strand of floss over two threads of fabric. Can you give ...
  A: Cindy, The directions sound correct. It would help if I knew what the kit was of. There are several ...
Cross Stitch Question2/29/2008
  Q: I have a kit that has 18 count fabric in it. Can this be transfered onto 14 count aida fabric ...
  A: Chris, It won't be a problem. The finished piece will be larger on 14 count versus 18 count. For ...
thread help2/4/2008
  Q: Stony Creek, Wedding Blessings. This pattern calls for Anchor #8 Pearl cotton. I found DMC 12 ...
  A: Kelli, What a beautiful piece. Anchor #8 is the same size as # 8 DMC perle cotton. #12 is thicker. ...
cleaning 14ct white aida1/22/2008
  Q: How would I clean a completed intricate crosstitch design which was accidentally layed down on an ...
  A: Laurie, I am not sure what to tell you. If the stain is at least an inch or more from the cross ...
Cross stitch1/13/2008
  Q: project with 25ct fabric.Want to cross stitch over 1 thread (rather than over 2 threads) how many ...
  A: Martha, Stitching over one on 25 count fabric is beautiful. You can probably use 1 strand, 2 at the ...
cross stitch1/12/2008
  Q: Should I dry clean my cross stitch?? My cross stitch has a soiled crease down the center from ...
  A: Penny, Do not dry clean your work. The chemicals may react with the dyes in the fibers. You can use ...
finishing a project12/3/2007
  Q: I have finished a cross stitch pattern on a pillowcase purchased as a kit, and I am giving it as a ...
  A: Jennifer Congratulations on finishing your first project. Ironing an interfacing on would be a good ...
aida cloth11/28/2007
  Q: i am working on a 14 count aida cloth. The finished sized is 9 x 5. I would like it to be smaller. ...
  A: I will be happy to help you out. The best way to determine finished size is to divide the stitch ...
converting linen to aida10/26/2007
  Q: I wrote you guys yesterday and I realize you are probably very busy,but I would really appreciate it ...
  A: Lisa, If you asked me the question, I did not get it. There are several experts so maybe it was ...
cross stitching10/3/2007
  Q: I am working on a piece for halloween using Davosa 18count and #5 pearl cotton. I plan on going ...
  A: Laurie, Thanks for the question. On 18 count going over 2, I would try one strand to see what the ...
Pattern Size9/18/2007
  Q: I have a cross stitch pattern that only tells me the number of stitches 116 w x 170 h. How do I ...
  A: Sorry it took me so long to answer. But I can certainly answer your question. 11 count aida means ...
how many threads9/11/2007
  Q: i am starting a pattern on 14 count cloth. how many threads do you recommend i use?
  A: Anna, It is really a matter of preference. If you are using a light colored thread on a dark fabric ...
Cross stitch project8/18/2007
  Q: I have completed the cross stitch part of a Southern Magnolias pattern. Now there is the ...
  A: Jo Ella, I have a love/hate relationship with backstitching myself. So you are not alone. When you ...
Searching for a cross stitch8/14/2007
  Q: I am searching for a cross stitch pattern or kit of a dodge dakota truck. Do you know if this exist ...
  A: I have never seen a pattern for a Dodge truck. You might have to find a service that converts a ...
missing instructions8/9/2007
  Q: I recently purchased one of the Bucilla lap quilts and when I bought it, some of the packaging was ...
  A: Erin, I found a phone number for Plaid which is the parent company of Bucilla. It is ...
Waste canvas query....6/6/2007
  Q: .I've had some waste canvas in my cupboard for years, and am about to finally use some of it. I've ...
  A: Suze, Most waste canvas is 10 count. I would use at least three strands, 4 may be better. Also make ...
how to judge how big a project will be5/18/2007
  Q: I am just starting to design my own eices, but I am not sure how to judge how many stitches take up ...
  A: Congrats on designing! I will be more than happy to help you. 14 count means that there are 14 ...
computer generated5/2/2007
  Q: I'm writing about how to make computer generated cross stitch patterns. I'm very much in love with ...
  A: David, I don't know of any free software for designing cross stitch. There was a program that I had ...
fabric direction1/19/2007
  Q: I live in Mexico and just bought a meter of cross stitch fabric for new projects. I was getting ...
  A: Candi - If the fabric is linen, then the irregularities are normal. If you were to count a larger ...
cross stitch & tapestery1/3/2007
  Q: I would like to know can cross-stitch patterns be used for tapestry? (meaning using the same ...
  A: Nida, Thanks so much for the question. It has been a very long time since I have done any tapestry ...
too stiff aida cloth11/2/2006
  Q: I have some aida cloth that is so stiff it's hard to work with. How can I softenit? I've tried ...
  A: Ruth, It sounds like there is a lot of sizing in the fabric. My only suggestion is to wet the ...
cross stitch8/23/2006
  Q: I made my own design on graph paper. It is for 10 count cross stitch with a total of 80 stitches ...
  A: Joyce, Congrats on creating your own design. That's quite an accomplishment. Your design size is 80 ...
Cross Stitch Pattern6/22/2006
  Q: I am trying to find a cross stitch pattern that is maybe of an engagement ring or wedding rings, but ...
  A: Sue Hillis Designs has a nice wedding piece. Also Leisure Arts has several wedding pieces. Another ...
cross stitch3/24/2006
  Q: kris: i'm going to be doing "the wedding" by lavender and lace. they do not indicate how many ...
  A: Pam, If doing the piece on 32, I would use 2 threads. If you are doing it on a dark color fabric, ...
the pattern the wedding12/6/2005
  Q: i'm doing the pattern the wedding (lavender and lace) at the moment.Please explain what they mean by ...
  A: Judith, What a beautiful piece. 2 over 2 has to do with what count fabric you are working on. If ...
Cross stitch3/1/2005
  Q: On my pattern there are some squares that are divided in two with a different symbol in each half. ...
  A: Libby, Your pattern is calling for two quarter stitches. Come up at one corner and go down in ...
Correcting mistakes2/10/2005
  Q: What is the easiest way to correct or remove cross stitches. I am new to cross stitching and have ...
  A: First let me apologize for not answering your question sooner. The system did not notify that I had ...
cross stitch7/31/2004
  Q: I have some patterns for quilt blocks or patchworks blocks that I would like to cross stitch, My ...
  A: Georgia, My suggestion would be to work the patterns on the 11 count or maybe a 14 count but work ...
rock band x-stitch patterns7/5/2004
  Q: my daughter is looking for a pattern of the grateful dead logo. any ideas?
  A: Unfortunately I do not know of any place she can get the Grateful Dead Logo. One suggestion would be ...
HELP!3/18/2004
  Q: I have never done a lick a cross stitch before but really want to. I just bought a kit and was ...
  A: Lori - If you read the directions it should tell you the number of strands you should be using - ...
Glissengloss11/12/2003
  Q: I'm currently doing a cross stitch that requires a small amount of a certain color of Glissengloss ...
  A: Mandy, I am sorry, but I can't answer that question. May I suggest that you check the Stitches 'N ...
Special Stitch7/2/2003
  Q: I have heard about a way to make a stitch that lays very flat. Also, it is supposed to be used by ...
  A: Karen, The technique you are describing is railroading! It only works when you are using multiple ...
What fabric size will I need????6/18/2002
  Q: I bought a kit that came with 14 count cotton aida, and I would like to stitch the pattern on a 28 ...
  A: Vanessa, If you are planning to stitch the design on 28 count over 2 then you would use the same ...
pattern book10/18/2001
  Q: I'm looking for cross stitch book of Disney characters I have one am looking for a newer one, with ...
  A: Barbara, Disney is very funny about cross-stitch patterns. Right now there is a couple of books out ...
Afghan Stitching and Teramo Fabric9/5/2001
  Q: Kris, I plan to stitch 3 afghans before Christmas (already have them). Having never x-stitched one, ...
  A: Barb, I hope I can help you. Three afghans by Christmas, I am impressed. I have done one afghan ...
Big Project8/14/2001
  Q: There is a kitty pattern I want to do however it is very large. It is 30 x 34 cm and consists of 30 ...
  A: Adria, My only advice to you is to do what you are comfortable with. If starting on a big project, ...
French Knots6/22/2001
  Q: I usually stay away from patterns that contain French Knots ... until the one I am currently working ...
  A: Michelle I have two suggestions for you. First, go to www.classicstitches.com and check the ...
about blending colors6/20/2001
  Q: ..I'm currently trying to start a cross stitch called the Oriental Kimono by Bucilla...and it talks ...
  A: Blending colors means that you use one strand of one color and one strand of the other and thread ...

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Kris

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Expertise

I can answer questions about cross stitch, pulled threads and some hardanger including questions about fabric, fibers, techniques, and speciality stitches. I can also answer questions about pattern location and designer searches.

Experience

I have been stitching for over 35 years now. I have been judging the cross stitch at the State Fair for almost 10 years. I love to stitch!

Education/Credentials
I was a member of Embrodier's Guild of America. I completed several classes in cross-stitch.

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