From: Marina.Salume@corp.sun.com (Marina Salume)
Newsgroups: rec.crafts.textiles
Subject: Re: cross stitch
Date: 27 Jan 1993 12:47:36 -0500
Organization: Cornell University

>* How do you deal with patterns that need a stitch or three of a color in 
>widely varied places? Do you try to do all of one color in a fairly diverse
>area at one time? Do you use short threads and just do two or three stitches
>and then end off? Do you leave long ends of various colors hanging behind
>the work so you can continue it? 

I try to stitch the largest blocks of color first. Then I can go back and fill 
in those little bits of color, running the thread under the stitches on the
back as I have to to get from place to place. If the little bits of color
don't have any stitching between them (like stars in a sky, for example)
I find I really have to end off each one, because otherwise I can see the
thread traveling across the back from the front.

>* Do you work in straight rows across the pattern, in one direction, or do you
>follow the design sections, working on various sections as you get to that
>color?

I work in straight rows across each color block, as much as possible. I don't
switch colors until I reach the end of the thread.

>* Do you have techniques to make it easier to find your spot on the pattern?
>Do you copy and magnify it? Do you recommend magnifying bars, pattern holders,
>etc? Do you mark up the pattern as you go?

I've tried the clear colored acetate strips that stick onto your chart by 
static electricity. But usually I drag my cross stitch around with me in a
bag so I lose my place anyway. I haven't done an extremely complex design
yet, tho. When I do, I'll probably xerox the pattern and mark it up (assuming
it isn't a color chart).

* Is it possible to clean the face of the work when you finish, as I note it
can sometimes get a bit dirty.

Most instructions I've seen recommend that you wash the work when you are done,
rolling it in a towel to absorb the excess water before laying it out flat
somewhere to dry. Use a gentle soap like Orvus and don't iron it!
 
* What kind of needles do your recommend? Do you ever put the fabric in a hoop,
or do you just rely on its stiffness to hold it while you work? Or do you
put it in a frame? What kind of frame, or whatever, do you recommend?

I like a small needle, it glides through the fabric more easily. I'm currently
using a gold-plated, blunt tipped needle that is great. I have used hoops
but they leave such big creases in the fabric, if I was doing a large piece
I'd use a frame with bars so you can roll it up. For small pieces I just hold
it in my hand.

* What treatment do you give the work when it is done, as far as cleaning,
blocking, mounting, etc? Should it be put in a frame with or without glass?
How about mounting works in embroidery hoops and hanging them? Should I 
glue it to the hoop to hold it permanently?

If you want to keep your embroidery forever, use acid-free mounting board,
lacing the excess fabric across the back to hold it in place. Then frame
it like a picture. Glass will keep it cleaner but some people don't like
it, I've odne it both ways. If you aren't worried about future generations
enjoying your work, you can use the padded sticky mounting boards that are
available, they give the work a nice smooth look. Same with glueing in a 
hoop, the glue will probably discolor the fabric sooner or later.

* How old is counted x-stitch as a craft? Is it fairly recent? If not, how
did long-ago stitchers do things? What fabrics did they use, what did they
do with their finished pieces, etc? Was it used on clothing and household
items? 

There are several books out that go into great detail on the history of
samplers and other types of cross stitch. it's fairly common all over the world,
I have one book about Chinese cross stitch (which was usually done in blue and
white).                    

* What about using metallic filaments? The piece I am doing calls for extensive
bordering in "Balnik Kreiger" (spelling) metallic filament, and the stuff is
devilish to work with. How should I take off the 3 strands from the spool,
piece them together, thread the needle, keep them smooth? Are there any 
substitutes you've found that are sufficiently shiny and easier to work with,to give similar effects? 

Metallic threads are a challenge to work with, it doesn't matter what brand you
use. if you hate it, don't use it!               

* Do you knot the threads on the back, or rely on weaving it in under other
threads?

Knots create a lumpy appearance to the piece. I always weave the ends under
other stitches or catch it as I begin a new thread. 

* What books are good for providing info on techniques, such as in the questions
above?

Maybe you'd like to try one of the many cross stitch magazines, my favorites
are "Just CrossStitch" and "Cross Stitch and Country Crafts." These are fairly
easy to find on newstands or in needlework shops. Another great one that
also covers other types of stitchery is "Treasures in Needlework." It is
a quarterly published by Cross Stitch and Country Crafts and Better Homes
and Gardens. All of these magazines publish articles about technique as well
as gorgeous patterns!

--marina