The half cross stitch belongs to a group of simple stitches used in cross stitch to create shading, curves and add detail to patterns. They can also add depth and dimension to make cross stitch patterns look more vibrant and exciting. If you have been making patterns with mostly full cross stitches, partial or fractional stitches may confuse you. Cross stitch patterns or charts can be full of different symbols that you need to familiarize yourself with. The symbols tell you if you need a cross stitch or a partial stitch. Note that charts can be in color or black and white. When cross stitching, as with any needlecraft, everything done with practice is sure to make your work look better than ever. Here are some tidbits of information on partial stitches that you may encounter on your next cross stitch patterns. Half Cross Stitch In a color chart, the half cross stitch can be shown as a half of a square. While in a black and white chart, it is represented by a diagonal slash going from one edge to the opposite edge. The half cross stitch commonly slants in from the lower left to the upper right. But some patterns specifically instruct stitchers to slant the half cross stitch according to the pattern. It is important to follow the instructions on the pattern to achieve the desired effect. 1/4 Cross Stitch A quarter cross stitch is a half of a half cross stitch. It is shown as a diagonal line coming halfway to the square’s center on a color chart. The quarter cross stitch is represented as a miniature symbol coming to the square’s center in a black and white pattern. Two small symbols in one square mean you need two quarter stitches in two different colors in that square. As with any partial stitch, you need to look at the pattern very closely when stitching to know which corner of the square you will poke your needle into. ¾ Cross Stitch The three-quarter cross stitch is composed of a quarter cross stitch and a half cross stitch. The slant depends on what part of the pattern needs the three-quarter stitch. In a color chart, the three-quarter cross stitch is represented by a triangle. In a black and white chart, a miniature symbol of a 3/4 cross stitch is used. The three-quarter cross stitch offers a fuller coverage on a square of a canvas. It can create better shading and depth on a design than a quarter cross stitch or a half cross stitch.