Cross Stitch Free Pattern Archives

Cross Stitch Basics

If you’ve never tried cross stitching, you are in for a treat. There are plenty of patterns online for beginners, and you can learn how to cross stitch in one simple session. If you aren’t confident enough to begin on your own, check out your local hobby shops and craft stores to inquire about cross stitch lessons. You can typically buy simple cross stitch kits at these stores as well.

What is Cross Stitch?

Cross stitching is popular because it is easy and relatively inexpensive. Basically, cross stitch involves making a series of X’s on a piece of fabric. You typically use fabric designed for cross stitch, although you can use other fabric. You can create your own design, follow a preset pattern on the fabric, or follow a pattern by counting the stitches. One cross stitch is comprised of two stitches which form an X. There are typically two main types of cross stitches: counted cross stitch and stamped cross stitch.

• Counted Cross Stitch: This is by far the most popular cross stitch. In order to use a counted cross stitch, you would refer to a chart/pattern. This pattern would indicate exactly how many stitches you will use, where to place the stitches, and what color the stitches should be. You simply follow the pattern, ensuring that you use the correct number of stitches in the correct place.
• Stamped Cross Stitch: This type of cross stitch uses fabrics with pre-printed designs. You would place the cross stitches directly over the designs. This is kind of like "paint by number" art.

Supplies

You can find cross stitch supplies at a variety of places, such as Hobby Lobby or even Wal-Mart. You can find kits that offer all of the basic supplies, including the pattern, material, and thread. Once you’ve become more familiar with the craft, however, you may want to select your own patterns, material, and thread.

Eventually, you will accumulate a large supply of cross stitch thread to choose from. You can even alternate colors for patterns, using colors you already have in stock. There are many different types of threads, including DMC cotton, stranded cotton, perl cotton, silk, metallic, and even wool. Cross stitching usually requires that you use at least two strands together. Some people like the look of three and may even use anywhere up to six strands at a time.

Once you’ve chosen your thread, you’ll need to choose your fabric. For an in-depth look at fabric choices, visit the Needlepointers website.

Cross Stitch Free Pattern Archives

Now that you’ve had a very basic introduction into the art of cross stitching, it’s time to check out the cross stitch free pattern archives that we’ve found. Have fun cross stitching!

• Artecy Cross Stitch: At least 10 new patterns are added every two weeks to this site. Two of these patterns are selected to appear in this section for only two weeks to be available to print for free. After that time they will be removed and two new patterns will be featured.
• EMS Cross Stitch Board: You must be registered to access these patterns, but there are lots of great patterns to choose from.
• Stitching the Night Away: This great site offers free patterns as well as a forum for members to sway ideas and suggestions.
• ABC Cross Stitch Patterns: Sign up to get plenty of counted cross stitch charts in PDF format, designed by A.B.C. As a member of the freebies archive, you will also receive a regular newsletter.
• Nancy Hearne: This site has several free cross stitch patterns.
• Layden With Stitches: You can search through the free patterns or request a pattern from the site’s archives.
• DMC: Sign up and receive access to free design from the private collection.
• House of Kats: You’ll find many great cross stitch charts and patterns at this site.