Instructions for cross-stitch / Luca-S

1. Fold the fabric into four in order to locate the center of the canvas and align it with the center of embroidery (Fig.1).

2. Pull the fabric in the embroidery frame, avoiding distortion of tissue.

3. Counting from the center, locate the bottom row of future stitches on the canvas.

4. Do not make knots to secure the threads; pass loose end of thread through the netting of the fabric (Fig.2).

5. Cross-stitches are worked in 2 or 3 threads of 6. The contour, if it is specified on the scheme, using the”needle backwards” technique (Fig.6).

(Aida 16 si 18 are embroidered in 2 of 6 threads, and Aida 14 is embroidered in 3 of 6 threads). Canvas type is marked on the cover.

6. If the project presupposes half-cross stitches (example in chart ), use basic stitches only. (Fig.3 А).

7. Stitches should have a slope in the same direction, the lower – in one side, the top - in the opposite side.

8. First, perform lower stitches (basic) (Fig.3 А), then, embroider the top stitches (cover) in the opposite direction (Fig.3 В).

9. Basic stitches are always done from lower left to upper right and then cover stitches from lower right to upper left. (Fig.3).

10. Strictly follow the tension of stitches, it should be average.

11. Do not make knots to secure the threads; wear loose end of thread under the stitches of the same color on the reverse side. (Fig.8).

12. If the project presupposes double cross ¾ (example in chart ). This double point of cross, cover a surface of classic cross stitch. Perform 2 cross points ¾ back to back ; the diagonal seams pass through the same holes, and the incomplete seams have a common central point. (Fig.7).

13. As soon as the embroidery is performed, allow the piece to soak for 2-3 minutes in room temperature water, rinse it carefully several times, and then dry it, spreading it over a flat surface. Do not squeeze the embroidery.