How to do a full cross stitch
Every symbol on a chart is one full cross: two diagonal stitches over one square of Aida. Work them in rows — all the bottom legs first, then back along with the top legs — for the neatest, fastest result.
Step 1 of 6
Bring the needle up at the bottom-left hole of the square (1).
front of fabric thread on the back
Tips
- Work rows for areas of one colour; work single complete crosses for scattered stitches (confetti).
- Let the needle hang every so often to untwist the thread.
- Never knot the thread: start with a loop start or by catching the tail under the first few stitches on the back.
Strands: Two strands on 14-count Aida.
All steps
- Bring the needle up at the bottom-left hole of the square (1).
- Go down at the top-right hole (2). That is the bottom leg: /
- Come up at the bottom-left of the next square — the bottom-right of the first. The thread runs straight down on the back.
- Repeat to the end of the row: a line of half stitches.
- Come back along the row: up at the bottom-right, down at the top-left. Top legs all lean the same way: \
- Finish every cross. Keep all top legs going the same direction across the whole piece — it is what makes stitching look even.
Questions stitchers ask
Which way should the top stitch go?
Either way, as long as it is the same everywhere. Most stitchers work / first and \ on top.
Should I finish each cross or do rows?
Rows (the “Danish method”) use less thread and look more even for large areas; complete crosses (the “English method”) suit scattered single stitches.