Cross stitch for beginners
A first project needs a chart, even-weave fabric, a blunt needle, and embroidery floss. This site makes the chart. It does not sell fabric or floss.
1. Pick a small chart
Start with a free sample or a short name, not a full portrait. Fewer colors are easier to keep sorted.
2. Choose fabric and count the size
14-count Aida is a common first fabric. Divide the stitch count by 14 to get finished inches, then add 3 inches of spare fabric on every side. The cross stitch calculator does that division for Aida, evenweave, and linen.
3. Separate the floss
Most charts on this site assume 2 strands. A DMC skein has 6 strands. Pull two out and keep the rest for later.
4. Find the center and stitch the crosses
Fold the fabric to find the middle. The chart’s center lines match that point. Each symbol is one full cross in that color.
5. Finish from a printed chart or the screen
The symbol PNG is free. The paged PDF, with the floss table and skein estimates, is $5.99 for that pattern.
Read how to read a pattern, look up numbers on the DMC color list, or open a free pattern. To turn your own photo into a chart, start at photo to pattern.