Stitchers generally make rows of cross stitches from left to right. But you can always refer to your pattern for specific instructions on how to go about your stitching. To start a row of half cross stitches: Bring your needle up through a hole toward the front and leave about one inch of thread at the back. Pass your needle through a hole diagonally across from where you started to make a diagonal half cross stitch. Hold on to your thread tail at the back, so it does not slip through to the front. Begin your next half cross stitch by bringing the needle back up through the hole directly below the one you last used. Look at the back of your canvas and make sure that the stitches cover your thread tail at the back. Continue making your half cross stitches as your pattern requires. It would be best if you start with the full cross stitches first on your pattern. This way, you can visualize the overall effect of the half cross stitches on your pattern’s design. The direction of the half cross stitches should be based on the impact that you want for your design. After all, you use half cross stitches in a cross stitch pattern to add shade or depth to your design. Most of the time, cross stitch patterns show the direction of half cross stitches on the charts. But some stitchers prefer an orientation that they follow, which works for them. The key to making it work is to keep the direction consistent when stitching half cross stitches. Ensure that your half cross stitches slant in the same direction for your finished piece to look good. The half stitch is commonly done in horizontal rows, especially on large areas. Stitching your half cross stitches consistently in one direction will make your work look smooth and refined. But it would be best to study the pattern thoroughly first before you begin with stitching. It may have a specific purpose that your half cross stitches’ orientation is done in a certain way. It would be best if you stitched your half cross stitches in a way that gives you the effect you want, whichever direction it may be. Better to look at your pattern closely first than instinctively follow the pattern. Because when you think about it, doing what makes you happy when making art, there is no right or wrong.