So the first step to stitching is preparing your fabric and you don't know what to do if it's your first time doing this right?

So here are a few ideas and tips to help you get started.

First make sure you have the right size fabric. Most kits come with fabric in them so that part is done for you. But if you bought a pattern and supplies separately you need to measure your fabric. Now, most patterns will tell you what size fabric you need…the important thing to remember is that your design will be different sizes on different counts of fabric. Also if you are stitching on linen or even weave, your design size will change if you go over one or two threads of the fabric.

You may need to use a fabric calculator. There are several gadgets you can buy at your local needlework shop or there are versions available online (easily found by doing a search for "fabric calculator" or "cross stitch fabric calculator" in your favourite search engine). Remember before you cut anything that it is always better to measure multiple times than it is to cut the wrong size...also bigger is better than smaller. Don't forget to leave 2 or 3 inches on all sides for finishing/framing your work when you're done.

Now you're wondering about those edges...they are so out there and exposed aren't they? You certainly don't want your piece to fray while you work. There are a number of things you can do to prevent fraying. One of the easiest ways is to use Fray Check (found at your needlework suppliers online and offline), a liquid you simply dab on the edges and once dry it "glues" them so they don't fray. This will not harm your fabric. Another way is to serge the edges on your sewing machine or serger. (Mini sergers work great for this task!) Just run an overcast stitch the whole way around your fabric and ta-da you're ready to go!

A third and classic way to edge your fabric is to simply baste it with a sturdy thread. Just do a basic basting stitch by hand (up, down, up, down) the whole way around the outside edge of the fabric to hold it in place. While more time consuming than the other two ways it still serves the basic purpose.

Now you're almost ready...one more thing to do!

Find the center of your fabric. The easiest way to do this? Fold it of course! Fold in half lengthwise, unfold, fold widthwise, unfold and where your fold lines meet is the center of your fabric and your first reference point for stitching.

Happy Stitching and enjoy your new hobby.

About the Author:

Loretta Oliver www.stitchingthenightaway.com © Stitching the Night Away About the Author www.stitchingthenightaway.com ~ free cross stitch patterns, message boards, round robins, contests and more.