Paragraph 124. The cross-stitch, as the name indicates, is so made that the threads lie in the form of a cross; it may be slightly modified to suit the particular style of design on which it is applied. The instructions in this paragraph present the method of making the simple cross-stitch in a straight line. Usually the design for cross-stitching is stamped on the material in small squares, parallel lines, or dots. Sometimes regular cross-stitch canvas is used. It will be observed from the illustration (See Figures 23 and 24) that each stitch outlines the diagonal of a tiny square. These squares may be gauged by counting the threads or merely by sight.

Figure 23.

To make this stitch, tie a knot in the thread, bring the needle up through from the under side of the cloth at a point representing the forward upper corner of an imaginary square. Insert the needle again at a point representing the farther lower corner of the same square bringing the needle out at the farther upper corner of the same square. See Figure 23. This stitch when drawn down will form the first diagonal, and will bring the thread in position to start the second one; insert the needle at the forward lower corner of the square and taking a bias stitch on the under side bring it out at the forward upper corner of the next square as shown in Figure 24. When drawn down this will form the second diagonal, thus completing the cross-stitch in the first square. Study the illustrations carefully and continue the process.

It will require careful work to make these stitches perfectly even for each time the stitch is made the outline of the little square must be clearly imaged. After completing one line of stitches, additional lines may be added until the design is completely worked out. Fasten the thread by taking two or three stitches over one another on the wrong side.

The cross-stitch is used for ornamental purposes. Sometimes different colors are combined and the work is varied to suit different designs.