The main parts of a cross-stitch chart include: Symbols inside grid squares Color key (or legend) Backstitch lines Instructions (sometimes with extra tips) Understanding these elements is the first step to successful stitching. Symbols: The Visual Code Each square in a cross. Cross Stitch Chart and Key Basics Charts and Keys Each square on a chart, both occupied and unoccupied, represents two threads of linen or one block of Aida unless otherwise stated.
Each occupied square equals one stitch unless otherwise stated. Cross stitch charts generally consist of whole squares representing complete cross stitches, but sometimes you will see additional stitches added. Tips for Using Cross Stitch Charts Many cross stitchers line to print out the black and white version of a chart and use a highlighter to color in each block of stitches or row to help them keep track of where they are in the pattern.
Using a magnetic board to hold your cross stitch chart will make it easy to see which row you are working on. The key to cross stitch The key to learning how to read counted cross stitch patterns is to familiarize yourself with the key! Every pattern will have a key explaining the colors and symbols on the chart. Every cross stitch chart has a legend which tells you what embroidery thread to use.
Reading the Cross Stitch Legend and Symbols An important element of learning how to read a cross stitch pattern is understanding the legend and the various symbols. The legend is a key that corresponds to the different thread colors used and different stitches used in the chart, such as back stitches, and French knots in the pattern. What size cross stitch fabric should be used A color and symbol key that indicates the different colors used in the pattern, along with their DMC and/or Anchor numbers and (sometimes) how much of each color you need Any other materials that might be needed Sometimes there's both a color and black and white version of the chart for ease of.
These cross-stitch symbols aren't intended to be scary - they are key to bringing your project to life, as they represent different colours of thread and even various stitch techniques. Understanding these symbols and how to read the pattern's legend is the first step to successful stitching. Confused by your cross stitch pattern? Learn how to read symbols, grids & colour keys with our easy beginner guide.
Start stitching with confidence today! A cross stitch chart uses symbols to indicate which colour stitch goes where on the fabric to create the finished design. Each colour of thread has it's own unique symbol and the Key document shows which symbol relates to which colour. The cross-reference for this chart looks like this.
Where the key tells you what color (s) are associated with each symbol, the cross.