DIY Network

CompuStitch Computers and embroidery combine to create cross-stitch art. From "Uncommon Threads" episode DUCT-135

Whitney Lee, of the Hookers, gives an overview on cross-stitch computer programs, using PCStitch. The programs are very user friendly and allow you to create any kind of cross-stitch pattern, including photographs.

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Computer programs such as PCStitch enable you to create beautiful cross-stitch art from a variety of sources.

Editor's note: We are still awaiting the charts for these projects and will post them as soon as we receive them. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Note that the following instructions will be used for both projects.

Basic Cross-Stitch Instructions

1. Cut canvas (if necessary) and bind edges with masking tape to prevent fraying.

2. Center canvas over the inside ring of the embroidery hoop; press the outer ring down over the canvas. Tighten the screw on top and pull the canvas so it's tight inside the hoop.

3. Choose first color to work with; and thread two strands of that color through the needle. Don't knot the thread. Start the first stitch where the pattern tells you, pulling the thread only halfway through 1, go down into 2, and then run the tail of the thread under the thread in back as you pull up through 3. Tighten, and your first stitch will remain in place. Use this for all your stitches

4. If you have several stitches of the same color in a row, do the half stitches across the row, then come back and cross the stitches.

5. Cross-stitch each color on the canvas. As you work, try to start in the upper left and proceed to the lower right of the canvas; this helps keep the stitches consistent. Unfortunately, this won't always work (sometimes you have to choose between down and left or up and right), but use your best judgment. Keeping the canvas taut over the hoop is essential and also helps to keep the canvas from getting warped while stitching.

6. When you're ready to finish a color, finish the last stitch, and on the back of the canvas, pull the needle through the thread of several stitches that are already there. This will secure your thread with no knotting, so the canvas will stay flat.

Note: If you plan on doing a lot of custom cross-stitching, you should probably find a way to organize your thread. There are lots of ways to do this; one is to use DMC bobbins and a thread or jewelry organizer. This will keep your floss neat, and using the DMC self-stick floss numbers will help you keep track of what floss you have and what floss you need to get for different projects.

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