Types of cross stitch kits

There are many different types of cross stitch kits. Familiarise yourself before buying a kit.

- Counted. This type is the most popular, it uses a pattern printed on paper laid out on a grid. Aida (usually 14 count), cotton threads, needle and finally a pattern is provided. You will need to count the number of stitches of the symbol of the pattern and stitch the actual stitches on the fabric. Each square on the printed pattern relates to a finished stitch. Most modern patterns are created with different symbols representing the colours of the thread; each colour has its own symbol. The finished design can be framed like a painting.

- Stamped. A fabric is printed with a coloured design, this type is usually simpler with fewer colours. What you need to do is match the colors of threads to those on the preprinted fabric. You will be forming cross stitches over the colored area on the fabric, using the thread color that matches the printed colour. A stamped kit usually requires only full or whole stitches. As with counted cross stitch kit, begin stitching at the center of the design and work your way to the edges. You need to be careful when choosing a stamped kit as the printed colors on the fabric are very similar, it might be difficult to determine the exact shade or color to use.

- No count. In this type, the aida fabric is printed with outlined areas. It comes with a pattern that shows you what colour to cross stitch in that area. You can actually work faster with the no count as you don't have to count to determine the first stitch and where to place the stitches. This type should not be confused with the stamped. The fabric for the stamped cross stitch is usually marked with a cross where each stitch is to be placed. The fabric for no count cross stitch is usually marked with the outline of the areas to be stitched.

- Embellished. This type is a variation on stamped cross stitch. The picture is printed on fabric and instead of completely filling it in, you work only in selected areas. It emphasizes certain aspects of the entire picture or you may add in other types of embroidery, other than cross stitch. In other words, you are decorating an existing picture. These kits usually come with beads or charms to embellish.

Hope this guide was useful.