One more way to speed up stitching is using the Danish method instead of the English method of stitching. The English method is the best way to maximized variegated or over-dyed threads with their color changes. The Danish method will still show them but it will appear more tweeded or speckled. There is a third way to do cross stitch called the Victorian method. It looks like a combination of English and sewing methods. I haven't tried it in a project only in a sample but it also might be a way to speed up stitching.
@@FibersandFlossCanada Oh, wonderful!! I first found Victorian method on Jean Farish's YT channel. It's hard to find but it sure can be useful in certain situations.
Great tips. I have a tip to share that was a game changer for me. I use the sewing method in a q-snap or other frame. I keep the tension a little looser, and use my left hand on the back to press up a little on the fabric. It's the best of both worlds - very efficient sewing method and all the benefits of stitching in hand, but with tidy stitches and no hand cramping from holding on to the fabric. This evolved from two-handed stitching with a frame (which I still do from time to time when it's appropriate to the project or just what I'm in the mood for).
Regarding tip #2, on my first deep dive into cross stitching information online 20 years ago, the “secret” everyone seemed to be giving for confirming the direction was to run your fingers down the length of floss, and which ever way feels smoothest, is the way the thread should be pulling through your fabric. Whatever message board I found at the time the participants felt so strongly about that they insisted you should never do a loop start! So I was shocked when I returned to stitching a year and a half ago or so to find the loop start so prevalent, lol! I think like many things there is pros and cons to everything and everyone needs to do what works for them, but it is something to keep in mind!
Yes someone else mentioned that as well! I think you have the key, do what works for you :) I never used to use a loop start but now if using 2 strands I love it! I find the threads rarely twist around each other….
I learned that same trick from my mother when she taught us girls how to stitch. Mom also showed us that tapping on the end of the thread a few times will also reveal which way is which. For the smooth way, the individual fibers will separate but lay straight and that's the end that should go into the needle; if the few taps on the end of the thread make it fluff out fairly distinctly (sometimes wildly, LOL) so that is the wrong end to thread. Now this method is meant for cotton floss. I've not tried it on silk but I doubt it would work since the individual fibers/filaments are much longer; well, they are in good quality thread. And yeah, I never do a loop start. It's not that hard to do an away knot to begin or simply hold the end for a few stitches and then tuck the end in to secure it.
Someone once described cross stitch and needle arts as a slow art and that changed my attitude about my stitching. Now it is just enjoying the time, not how fast I'm going to finish the project. That being said, I enjoy learning to make my stitching more efficient and, consequently, more even and neater. Thanks for all the help. Now to try to tackle evenweave.
I have always been an aida stitcher but to get a different look, I tried a 25 count Lugana, which is an evenweave. I've had no trouble stitching on it and I love the fabric. Don't be afraid to try it.
That was the best explanation of thread twist ❤ As a yarn spinner I understand twist but I know there are folks that don’t. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
I've been stitching for years, but I've never known that the thread was directional!! I can't wait to give this a try. You're an exceptional teacher and I'm now a new subscriber!
Oh well, thank you so much for the kind comment. The lovely thing about stitching is that it is an evolving process and we are constantly learning new tips and tricks. Every day that I go to work, I always learn at least one thing and when that happens, I think there is I’m done. I can go home now lol. I feel that way with my stitching as well. Although I feel I don’t learn something new every day. I definitely learn to meet you every week. Karen combs is one of my most favourite cross teachers because every time I watch her Flosstube I learned something, every single time. Do you watch her?
@FibersandFlossCanada I haven't, but will be looking her up! I agree 100% with you about learning something new every day. I'm a retired NICU nurse. I spent my entire career there, and worked with the most amazing people. I always said that if I didn't learn something that day, I wasn't paying attention! ♥️
I have almost allways used to stitch in hand and so does my hubby. Our parents used to do the same. I believe we are quite a few that stitch this way here in Denmark. But some prefer a frame especially when they use free stitching.
Hi Arica. The way my mother taught me to stitch was in hand using the sewing method and I was doing that all my life. Last year I tried the pocking and picking method while stitching in hand. I found out that my thread was not “damaged” so much, meaning to be fluffy. Then I started to use various types of hoops to stitch and I’m not going back. Of course stitching in hand is much faster but stitching is my fun hour during the day so I don’t care about the amount of stitches I’m doing. I’m always amazed when people counting their stitches. That would make me anxious and it would ruin the fun for me. I agree with you that you better use a stand while stitching with a hoop. It’ll be faster and also more relaxing for the wrists. By the way I’m curious about what stand are you using. I’m searching for one and I loved that yours can hold so steady the big q-snap which I think is a 17x17”? Thank you for that video. As always great job and great tips. 👏 👏👏👏
Thank you Mary! Don’t you just love how this is a craft passed down from generations to future generations? For my stand I use a needlework system 4 travel floor stand with the arm extender (you can achieve any angle/height, and I use the qsnap attachment which fits up to a 17x17. It also can spin in circles making flipping your work over literally effortless :)
I learn to stitch in hand and use it all the time. I have tried stitching in a hoop like I do for embroidery but find it too uncomfortable and odd feeling. I've been stitching in hand since 1985 and I love it. Also for marking my place on paper patterns I use colored highlighter tape. I choose the area I want to complete in my stitch session and mark all for sides of my pattern area. I can just fly through my stitching thus way. No searching for where I'm at because my eyes immediately go to the blocked off atea.
Thank you for posting this video Arika. I stitch in hand, but I am self-taught and probably not stitching the most efficient way, so I am looking forward to your video about that when it comes out! You do such lovely work!
Erica tried shorter stitching thread, probably 12 to 14 inches. What a difference. My stitches were well formed and flat. Who knew! Thank you for great video❤
I am so glad you found it helpful! Shorter threads can make a big difference in stitch quality and knot prevention. Happy to hear it’s working for you 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Lots of nice helpful tips... my biggest mistake is trying to get too many stitches out of my thread and take it way down too close to the end of my thread! I've been stitching for almost 50 years!! No joke!!😊🧵🪡
I have really enjoyed your flosstubeversity. I do practice some of these steps. Your voice and cadence is very enjoyable. I remember a year ago on our cross stitch cruise your friendliness. I was with my husband and we were in the same eating group. Great job. I do all of the different ways of stitching. In hand, scroll rod, smaller stand. I usually use pattern keeper unless I am somewhere I don't have it. Also, for me I have to be cognizant of light and time of day and how tired my eyes are or too much light sometimes.
Thank you for tuning in today! I don’t know if I’ve misinterpreted your comments about the cruise. I have never been on a cruise so you must be thinking of another stitch? Happy stitching!
What a fabulous video. I have been stitching for about three years and I learned so much from your video. I appreciate your soft spoken voice and the precise way you explain things. Thank you from a new subscriber.
Thanks for a very informative video. I always stitch in hand (couldn’t afford a hoop as a kid just learning). I always thought I was doing it wrong because everyone else was using a hoop. But for me in hand works best.
I’m so glad that you found it helpful! Everything always started in hand and so BENEFITS for you are enhanced. I don’t know there’s a right or wrong way. I think the right way would be what FEELS best to you :)
I just love you. Thank you for all that you do for our community! Excellent intro to the video. I’m right there with you every stitch calms me and fills me with joy.
Great tips! Can’t wait to see the next video…I gave up sewing method when I realized that my stitches weren’t as “square”. Would love to try again. For floss sold on cards, you can find the right direction by running it between 2 fingers…one direction will feel smoother than the other😊
Even after stitching for 60 years I learned new things….or was reminded of tips I had forgotten. Thank you for taking the time ( 3 times) to help us all stitch more efficiently.
Loved your video regarding this topic, very informative. Would love to see more of your stand in actual use, as it pertains to how easy or not it is to flip your work and end a thread, as alot of stands are not that easy to use. Would love to see a video about stands too as I have not been stitching that long and did not find a lap stand that I have useful to much time adjusting it etc when need to end and start a new thread.
Thank you! I’ve had a few requests so I may film one :) FYI it flips your whole project with a flip of a finger in a second, literally. You can spin in circles if you wanted too :)
It is always nice to pick up a new tip or two. It’s like that quote: anyone who stops learning is old whether 20 or 80. Those who keep learning stay young!
Thank you for sharing these helpful tips! I use many of them! I enjoy stitching in hand. It gives me a lot of control and the threads are even and look great! 👍🏽
Well-presented and informative tutorial! The part on identifying floss ends and which goes in the needle is a real game changer for me. I never really thought about it and couldn't figure out why I was getting knots several times. Truly frustrating and time consuming. So, thank you, thank you! You have brought something that is very valuable. Please keep up your Flosstubeversity!
I have wanted to learn how to stitch in hand, but wasn’t sure how to keep the fabric…. Steady? Stiff? And I worry that it will pucker. I’m excited to watch your tutorials about it.
goodness, i was so happy to find this! just getting back into cross stitching and it's changed so much since the '80s, and i wasn't good at it then... 😄. i watch floss tube podcast and always have so many questions. your podcast is very helpful. thank you!
Great tips! I remember in the '90's holding the 5 yard of skein between my knees to pull the single thread 😅. I have learned to use shorter length of floss. I knew about threading my sewing needles from the spool, never thought about it with floss. Thanks, always appreciate the work you put into your videos.
This is my first time watching your video and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I plan on trying the shorter threads as I think that will help me with some of my joint issues. Thank you so much. I look forward to watching more of your videos.
Thanks for taking the time to explain all these tips. I have been stitching since the early 1980’s and still learn new things about cross stitching. Look forward to your next video. Happy stitching!
What a wonderful video! I see I’ve been missing out on so much goodness by not finding your channel sooner! I learned a lot from all your tips today and I really appreciate it. I am definitely a process stitcher, and it is very therapeutic for me as well. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience. ☺️💙 Meline
I am a new subscriber. I loved your video today. Undoubtedly I am wasting tons of time with my stitching. I will be doing better now, thanks to your tips today. Look forward to you stitch in hand method. I tried once before and it slowed me way down. I stitch in hoop. I am looking to purchase a frame soon. Have a terrific week.
Welcome! Happy you found the channel. I think trying a new method is always slower till we get the hang of things. Hopefully stitching in hand may go smoother this time around :)
Thank you for giving us great tips and easier to stitch! Never heard anyone all this great tips and advices! Thank you, thank you so much for this amazing video!
I am just getting back into cross stitch and found your video. Thank you so much for this information. You are a joy to watch. From a fellow Canadian in the Sunny but freezing south.
Thank you for a very interesting video. Another tip for speeding up stitches with two strands of floss is the loop start. I really found it faster because you can start from the front of your work. You do not need to flip your work over to secure your thread.
Thankyou for your video it was very informative. I have stitched for nearly 40 years and have never stitched in hand always preferring the taut fabric on a frame. I also hate screwing my beautiful fabric up! I'm looking forward to your next video to show how it's done , I'll definitely give it ago 😊
Fascinating video, Arica. But I think that my takeaway is that I'd rather stitch at my current speed, than adopt any of these strategies (well, apart from single strand on higher counts, which I already do, if that's the way I see the design) Really, process stitching for me, isn't quick stitching. And I'm totally OK with that 😊
That’s excellent! I think the best way we can stitch is stitching what works for us. For the majority of my projects I am a process stitcher too :) curling up on the couch with a slow stitch is my personal favourite! Thank you for tuning in today :)
Great video with so many fantastic tips! What is the make/brand of the black stand that you use? Thank you for continuing to produce such enriching content🎉
I prefer in hand with the sewing stitch but if a fabric is too stiff, it just doesn't work. I use it on 14,16 and 25 count with three strands. I love the 'puffy' look of the stitches and it is so much faster.
Very helpful thank you! I came across your channel, this was just what I was looking for as I am new to the hobby. I am a new subscriber. Have a pleasant day!
Excellent tips! Thank you. Stitching in hand is not for me - I think, so I look forward to your tutorial and learn best practices to give it a go. Take care.
I have learned from embroidery that the floss strands have a smoother direction. It can be felt if you pull it through your fingers. This might be useful when picking up floss that hasn't just come off the hank/spool.
Stitching in hand has been my preference for years - just recently using only 1 floss which is helpful with twisting etc. I do find there are times that my tension is different. Worst problem ... I have developed thumb arthritis and it is aggravated stitching in hand.
If you're stitching lying in bed because you don't have the energy to sit up, you can prop your hoop or frame on your knee or whatever as if that were a frame. Dominant hand on top of the fabric, non-dominant hand underneath.
I'm a relatively new subscriber to your channel and this has been a great episode. I have been getting into cross stitch for a while now and I appreciate your tips on the threads because I always tend to have issues with knitting, breaking due to fraying. I never thought about the floss being pulled from the wrong end. I'm still trying to see what fabric counts work for me and have been restarting quite a few projects. Other than a lowrey stand, what other stand would you recommend?
Thank you for following along on my stitching journey! I hope you continue to enjoy the episodes :) The wonderful thing about stitching is that it is an evolving process and one that is different for everyone. Personally, I use a Needlework System 4, travel edition with the qsnap frame, although I’m looking to purchase a scroll attachment bc my chatelaine. I love it because it folds down to fit in a suit case, yet the base is really stable. I can tuck it in to work really close or go over the arm of a couch etc. I bought the arm extension so I can easily adjust to stitch whichever height/angle I want. You can also flip the qsnap around in a circle as you please with a flick of a finger so turning your work over is a breeze :)
Any tips on identifying the "right" side of the thread vs the "Wrong" side when you don't keep floss either on a spool or in the DMC package? I seldom use those spooled silks and I put DMC on bobbins (please don't judge!). Thanks for a good tutorial!
Yes! Delicately run a strand between your thumb and index finger, notice the texture, how smooth is it? Now do the same from the opposite end of the strand and compare the textures…. The smooth side is the side to thread with if that makes sense? I will review this in my flosstube next Tuesday :)
Great tips! I was wondering what type of frame you are using? It looks like it attaches to your table. Currently I use a floor frame which is good for most projects but I have a lap frame which I use for smaller projects however I am not crazy about it. Thanks! PS. I just found you and look forward to watching you more.
I would add, don't stitch with multiple threads. Sure, the stranded cotton is designed for that .. but making the multiple strands sit down nicely is an extra step you don't have when you use a single strand of perle or another embroidery thread that is matched to your canvas count.
Great video! I have a question…if using the loop start method, the directionality of the thread won’t work so should I keep using the loop method or not? I always seem to get some ‘fuzziness’ to my thread which drives me crazy! Not to mention fighting with cut ends that want to come through the front too. 😢
Honestly Lisa, do whatever works best for you. Whichever technique you find eliminates the fuzziness so you can enjoy the stitching :) I frequently use a loop start if it calls for 2 threads. The beautiful thing about stitching is the number of different ways to do things and the fact we stitchers move between many different techniques in a piece based off the requirements of the piece, your mood, your flow state, the stitching pathway etc… do whatever feels right on the day you are stitching ❤️
I stitch some things in hand but lately have started using hoops more. In the past I’ve also used stands with scroll rods which I liked because I do like 2 handed stitching. Is there a lap stand you could recommend that holds hoops? I’ve seen some online but don’t know how secure they hold them (like if they sag or are a pain to get at the back to start and end threads).
Thank you for tuning in tonight. Unfortunately I don’t know anything about lap stands. I’ve often assumed they would wobble but a stitchy friend recently purchased one… I should ask her what she thinks of it…
Thank you so much for this video , it was a great help . I would love to try stitching in hand and look forward to your next video . I loved the look of your stand what make is it ? Hope you don't mind me asking . Thank you once again .
Thank you so much for doing this video it was great. Is there a way to tell if you are stitching with the correct end of the thread with weeks or color & cotton?
Yes! Take a piece of thread and run your fingers slowly along the length, then run your fingers back up the thread in the opposite direction. One way will feel smoother and that is the tip you want to thread with :) of course, you need to have good feeling in your fingers!
One more way to speed up stitching is using the Danish method instead of the English method of stitching. The English method is the best way to maximized variegated or over-dyed threads with their color changes. The Danish method will still show them but it will appear more tweeded or speckled.
There is a third way to do cross stitch called the Victorian method. It looks like a combination of English and sewing methods. I haven't tried it in a project only in a sample but it also might be a way to speed up stitching.
I love that you brought up the Danish and Victorian methods of stitching! I’m going to do tutorials on all those :) thanks for tuning in today
@@FibersandFlossCanada Oh, wonderful!! I first found Victorian method on Jean Farish's YT channel. It's hard to find but it sure can be useful in certain situations.
Great tips. I have a tip to share that was a game changer for me. I use the sewing method in a q-snap or other frame. I keep the tension a little looser, and use my left hand on the back to press up a little on the fabric. It's the best of both worlds - very efficient sewing method and all the benefits of stitching in hand, but with tidy stitches and no hand cramping from holding on to the fabric. This evolved from two-handed stitching with a frame (which I still do from time to time when it's appropriate to the project or just what I'm in the mood for).
Thank you for sharing your tip! I’ll have to try that!
Regarding tip #2, on my first deep dive into cross stitching information online 20 years ago, the “secret” everyone seemed to be giving for confirming the direction was to run your fingers down the length of floss, and which ever way feels smoothest, is the way the thread should be pulling through your fabric. Whatever message board I found at the time the participants felt so strongly about that they insisted you should never do a loop start! So I was shocked when I returned to stitching a year and a half ago or so to find the loop start so prevalent, lol! I think like many things there is pros and cons to everything and everyone needs to do what works for them, but it is something to keep in mind!
Great tips! Now if I could just get my two handed stitching on my Mark...
Yes someone else mentioned that as well! I think you have the key, do what works for you :) I never used to use a loop start but now if using 2 strands I love it! I find the threads rarely twist around each other….
I learned that same trick from my mother when she taught us girls how to stitch. Mom also showed us that tapping on the end of the thread a few times will also reveal which way is which. For the smooth way, the individual fibers will separate but lay straight and that's the end that should go into the needle; if the few taps on the end of the thread make it fluff out fairly distinctly (sometimes wildly, LOL) so that is the wrong end to thread. Now this method is meant for cotton floss. I've not tried it on silk but I doubt it would work since the individual fibers/filaments are much longer; well, they are in good quality thread.
And yeah, I never do a loop start. It's not that hard to do an away knot to begin or simply hold the end for a few stitches and then tuck the end in to secure it.
Someone once described cross stitch and needle arts as a slow art and that changed my attitude about my stitching. Now it is just enjoying the time, not how fast I'm going to finish the project. That being said, I enjoy learning to make my stitching more efficient and, consequently, more even and neater. Thanks for all the help. Now to try to tackle evenweave.
This is everything!!! Can I share this comment in my next flosstube? This is EXACTLY how I feel :)
I have always been an aida stitcher but to get a different look, I tried a 25 count Lugana, which is an evenweave. I've had no trouble stitching on it and I love the fabric. Don't be afraid to try it.
That was the best explanation of thread twist ❤ As a yarn spinner I understand twist but I know there are folks that don’t. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
You’re very welcome! From a fellow yarn spinner ;)
I've been stitching for years, but I've never known that the thread was directional!! I can't wait to give this a try. You're an exceptional teacher and I'm now a new subscriber!
Oh well, thank you so much for the kind comment. The lovely thing about stitching is that it is an evolving process and we are constantly learning new tips and tricks. Every day that I go to work, I always learn at least one thing and when that happens, I think there is I’m done. I can go home now lol. I feel that way with my stitching as well. Although I feel I don’t learn something new every day. I definitely learn to meet you every week. Karen combs is one of my most favourite cross teachers because every time I watch her Flosstube I learned something, every single time. Do you watch her?
@FibersandFlossCanada I haven't, but will be looking her up! I agree 100% with you about learning something new every day. I'm a retired NICU nurse. I spent my entire career there, and worked with the most amazing people. I always said that if I didn't learn something that day, I wasn't paying attention! ♥️
@ 1000% I work emergency medicine and there are days I learn something new 10 min into my shift and I think, it’s going to be a looooong day lol
I have almost allways used to stitch in hand and so does my hubby. Our parents used to do the same. I believe we are quite a few that stitch this way here in Denmark. But some prefer a frame especially when they use free stitching.
That is awesome! I love that you stitch with your husband!
Awesome stitching tips. I look forward to your “stitching in hand”:episode in February. I love stitching in hand!
This was a great video and I hope to apply some of your tricks and tips!!
Thank you
Hi Arica.
The way my mother taught me to stitch was in hand using the sewing method and I was doing that all my life. Last year I tried the pocking and picking method while stitching in hand. I found out that my thread was not “damaged” so much, meaning to be fluffy. Then I started to use various types of hoops to stitch and I’m not going back. Of course stitching in hand is much faster but stitching is my fun hour during the day so I don’t care about the amount of stitches I’m doing. I’m always amazed when people counting their stitches. That would make me anxious and it would ruin the fun for me. I agree with you that you better use a stand while stitching with a hoop. It’ll be faster and also more relaxing for the wrists.
By the way I’m curious about what stand are you using. I’m searching for one and I loved that yours can hold so steady the big q-snap which I think is a 17x17”?
Thank you for that video. As always great job and great tips. 👏 👏👏👏
Thank you Mary! Don’t you just love how this is a craft passed down from generations to future generations? For my stand I use a needlework system 4 travel floor stand with the arm extender (you can achieve any angle/height, and I use the qsnap attachment which fits up to a 17x17. It also can spin in circles making flipping your work over literally effortless :)
This video was so informative that I can’t wait for your stitching in hand video!!
You are so welcome! It’s coming soon!
Great tips. Thank you for sharing. ❤
I learn to stitch in hand and use it all the time. I have tried stitching in a hoop like I do for embroidery but find it too uncomfortable and odd feeling. I've been stitching in hand since 1985 and I love it. Also for marking my place on paper patterns I use colored highlighter tape. I choose the area I want to complete in my stitch session and mark all for sides of my pattern area. I can just fly through my stitching thus way. No searching for where I'm at because my eyes immediately go to the blocked off atea.
I love that you’ve found a method that works for you! Thank you for sharing what you do and happy stitching!
Lots of good information so glad I tuned in..
Thank you for posting this video Arika. I stitch in hand, but I am self-taught and probably not stitching the most efficient way, so I am looking forward to your video about that when it comes out! You do such lovely work!
Thanks so much - I can’t wait to share some more tips with you all!
Just call me Twisty McGee 🪡🧵 😆
Thank you for the terrific video !
Thank you for doing this video! I definitely picked up some useful tips! Can’t wait to see your Stitching in Hand video!
You are very welcome! Thanks for tuning in.
Wow, so many amazing tips. As a newer stitcher, I'm definitely going to analyze what I'm doing with all this great advice you provided. Thank you!
You are so welcome! I'm so glad you found the video helpful.
Erica tried shorter stitching thread, probably 12 to 14 inches. What a difference. My stitches were well formed and flat. Who knew! Thank you for great video❤
I am so glad you found it helpful! Shorter threads can make a big difference in stitch quality and knot prevention. Happy to hear it’s working for you 🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻
Lots of nice helpful tips... my biggest mistake is trying to get too many stitches out of my thread and take it way down too close to the end of my thread! I've been stitching for almost 50 years!! No joke!!😊🧵🪡
Haha me too!! I play thread chicken like crazy! I literally snip off 1-2cm EVERY TIME! Like there’s a thread ration lol
I have really enjoyed your flosstubeversity. I do practice some of these steps. Your voice and cadence is very enjoyable. I remember a year ago on our cross stitch cruise your friendliness. I was with my husband and we were in the same eating group. Great job. I do all of the different ways of stitching. In hand, scroll rod, smaller stand. I usually use pattern keeper unless I am somewhere I don't have it. Also, for me I have to be cognizant of light and time of day and how tired my eyes are or too much light sometimes.
Thank you for tuning in today! I don’t know if I’ve misinterpreted your comments about the cruise. I have never been on a cruise so you must be thinking of another stitch? Happy stitching!
Terrific tips - I certainly picked up some tips and am looking forward to the in-hand tutorial.
Thanks for watching - I hope you find it useful!
Great and very useful video as always! Thank you Arica 😍🧵🪡
You're so welcome!
What a fabulous video. I have been stitching for about three years and I learned so much from your video. I appreciate your soft spoken voice and the precise way you explain things. Thank you from a new subscriber.
I am so glad you enjoyed it! Welcome to the channel and I hope you enjoy the regular videos too :)
Thanks for a very informative video. I always stitch in hand (couldn’t afford a hoop as a kid just learning). I always thought I was doing it wrong because everyone else was using a hoop. But for me in hand works best.
I’m so glad that you found it helpful! Everything always started in hand and so BENEFITS for you are enhanced. I don’t know there’s a right or wrong way. I think the right way would be what FEELS best to you :)
I just love you. Thank you for all that you do for our community! Excellent intro to the video. I’m right there with you every stitch calms me and fills me with joy.
Awww thank you Cynthia ❤️ I’m happy to contribute what I can when I can but most importantly I love hearing it makes you happy :)
What an excellent tutorial - thank you so much! Can’t wait for your stitching in hand video!!!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
Great tips! Can’t wait to see the next video…I gave up sewing method when I realized that my stitches weren’t as “square”. Would love to try again. For floss sold on cards, you can find the right direction by running it between 2 fingers…one direction will feel smoother than the other😊
Glad it was helpful! And thank you for the tip - I didn’t know that!
Awesome tips. Looking forward to the info on stitching in hand.
Thanks for the tips! I use Markup XP and it is a real game changer!
Looking forward to the in hand stitching video. Great tips.
Brilliant tutorial, Arica. ❤
Even after stitching for 60 years I learned new things….or was reminded of tips I had forgotten. Thank you for taking the time ( 3 times) to help us all stitch more efficiently.
I am so glad you enjoyed the video and learned something new today!
Loved your video regarding this topic, very informative. Would love to see more of your stand in actual use, as it pertains to how easy or not it is to flip your work and end a thread, as alot of stands are not that easy to use. Would love to see a video about stands too as I have not been stitching that long and did not find a lap stand that I have useful to much time adjusting it etc when need to end and start a new thread.
Thank you! I’ve had a few requests so I may film one :) FYI it flips your whole project with a flip of a finger in a second, literally. You can spin in circles if you wanted too :)
@@FibersandFlossCanada Really hope you make this video, Thanks
Thank you Arica, that was so helpful I have been stitching for about 18 moths. and you have taught me things that I had never heard of before!! 😊❤
You're very welcome! I'm glad you found it helpful!
Thank you so much. Of all the years of stitching, it still is satisfying to learn.
It is always nice to pick up a new tip or two. It’s like that quote: anyone who stops learning is old whether 20 or 80. Those who keep learning stay young!
Great video. I can’t wait for the stitching in hand.
I am glad you enjoyed the video! I will be sharing my in-hand techniques soon :)
Thank you for sharing these helpful tips! I use many of them! I enjoy stitching in hand. It gives me a lot of control and the threads are even and look great! 👍🏽
It sounds like you have a great system for stitching in hand! Thank you for tuning in today :)
Well-presented and informative tutorial! The part on identifying floss ends and which goes in the needle is a real game changer for me. I never really thought about it and couldn't figure out why I was getting knots several times. Truly frustrating and time consuming. So, thank you, thank you! You have brought something that is very valuable. Please keep up your Flosstubeversity!
You’re so welcome! I’m so glad you found it helpful!
Thank you so much Arica. I love seeing these videos. You are so knowledgeable on crafting and I’ve learned so much from you.
You are most welcome! I love sharing what I know.
I have wanted to learn how to stitch in hand, but wasn’t sure how to keep the fabric…. Steady? Stiff? And I worry that it will pucker. I’m excited to watch your tutorials about it.
I will be addressing that in upcoming videos! 🙂
goodness, i was so happy to find this! just getting back into cross stitching and it's changed so much since the '80s, and i wasn't good at it then... 😄. i watch floss tube podcast and always have so many questions. your podcast is very helpful. thank you!
Welcome back to cross stitch - glad you enjoyed the video!
Great tips! I remember in the '90's holding the 5 yard of skein between my knees to pull the single thread 😅. I have learned to use shorter length of floss. I knew about threading my sewing needles from the spool, never thought about it with floss. Thanks, always appreciate the work you put into your videos.
You're welcome! It's amazing how much our crafting techniques have changed over the years! Thank you for tuning in today :)
Great tips Arica! I appreciate all of your educational videos, as well as your regular flosstubes!
Thank you! I’m so glad you enjoy the videos and find them helpful :)
Thanks for your video! Perfect tips!
This is my first time watching your video and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I plan on trying the shorter threads as I think that will help me with some of my joint issues. Thank you so much. I look forward to watching more of your videos.
I am so glad you enjoyed the video! I hope that shorter threads will help you to be able to stitch more comfortably.
Thanks for taking the time to explain all these tips. I have been stitching since the early 1980’s and still learn new things about cross stitching. Look forward to your next video. Happy stitching!
You are most welcome! Happy stitching to you too!
Excellent tips ❤
What a wonderful video! I see I’ve been missing out on so much goodness by not finding your channel sooner! I learned a lot from all your tips today and I really appreciate it. I am definitely a process stitcher, and it is very therapeutic for me as well. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience. ☺️💙
Meline
You’re so welcome Meline! I’m glad you enjoyed the tips and the therapeutic aspect of stitching 😊
Wonderful tips! Thank you!
I am a new subscriber. I loved your video today. Undoubtedly I am wasting tons of time with my stitching. I will be doing better now, thanks to your tips today. Look forward to you stitch in hand method. I tried once before and it slowed me way down. I stitch in hoop. I am looking to purchase a frame soon. Have a terrific week.
Welcome! Happy you found the channel. I think trying a new method is always slower till we get the hang of things. Hopefully stitching in hand may go smoother this time around :)
Thank you for giving us great tips and easier to stitch! Never heard anyone all this great tips and advices! Thank you, thank you so much for this amazing video!
Glad it was helpful!
Looking forward to the next video. Thank you for taking the time to give us these tips. Very helpfull.
You are so welcome!
Fabulous video thanks for tips❣️ will look forward to in hand stitching tutorial. Happy stitching, 🤗🕊️
You are so welcome!
Wonderful tips, thank you Arica !
You’re most welcome! I’m so glad you found it helpful!
Just wonderful, great advice, Thank you so much for doing this video. Take care and Happy New Year
I am so glad you enjoyed the video! Happy New Year to you too!
I am just getting back into cross stitch and found your video. Thank you so much for this information. You are a joy to watch. From a fellow Canadian in the Sunny but freezing south.
I’m always so happy to have fellow Canadians join the stitching community! Have you discovered the world of flosstube yet??
Thank you for a very interesting video. Another tip for speeding up stitches with two strands of floss is the loop start. I really found it faster because you can start from the front of your work. You do not need to flip your work over to secure your thread.
@ Yes I have. Fortunately or Unfortunately? Only time will tell.🤣🤣
Thankyou for your video it was very informative. I have stitched for nearly 40 years and have never stitched in hand always preferring the taut fabric on a frame. I also hate screwing my beautiful fabric up! I'm looking forward to your next video to show how it's done , I'll definitely give it ago 😊
@ how fun! What it after 40 years you learn to love in hand?!
What an awesome tutorial! You are amazing! I learned a lot, and am eager to apply it to my stitching. Thank you!
You're so welcome!
Fascinating video, Arica.
But I think that my takeaway is that I'd rather stitch at my current speed, than adopt any of these strategies (well, apart from single strand on higher counts, which I already do, if that's the way I see the design)
Really, process stitching for me, isn't quick stitching. And I'm totally OK with that 😊
That’s excellent! I think the best way we can stitch is stitching what works for us. For the majority of my projects I am a process stitcher too :) curling up on the couch with a slow stitch is my personal favourite! Thank you for tuning in today :)
Excellent content! I learned so much!! Thank you❤
I’m so glad you enjoyed the video!
Great video! Thank you. I prefer to stitch in hand so I look forward to your tips on that.
Wonderful!
looking forward to the stitching in hand tutorial, erica! thank you
You are very welcome! I’m so glad you enjoyed the video!
OK, I got antsy and tried last night. It's as fast as lightning!!! ⚡🌩️@@FibersandFlossCanada
Enjoyed all 10 tips…now to apply technique…excellent video!
Thank you for such a great video.
What a great video. Thank you😊 I learned so much.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the video and learned something new today!
Great video with so many fantastic tips! What is the make/brand of the black stand that you use? Thank you for continuing to produce such enriching content🎉
System 5 Needlwork stand, I think Thanks for tuning in today!
Ooo can’t wait for the in hand tutorial!!
I prefer in hand with the sewing stitch but if a fabric is too stiff, it just doesn't work. I use it on 14,16 and 25 count with three strands. I love the 'puffy' look of the stitches and it is so much faster.
It sounds like you’ve found a method that works well for you!
Very helpful thank you! I came across your channel, this was just what I was looking for as I am new to the hobby. I am a new subscriber. Have a pleasant day!
Welcome to the channel and thank you for subscribing! I hope you enjoy your cross stitch journey as well as my regular content too :)
Very helpful tips! Thank you!!
No Thank You for this video. Very Helpful. Can’t wait to see the next one. Thank You Please make sure that we can see up close the detailed process
I will do :) Thanks so much for tuning in today!
Excellent tips! Thank you. Stitching in hand is not for me - I think, so I look forward to your tutorial and learn best practices to give it a go. Take care.
You are most welcome! Happy stitching :)
I have learned from embroidery that the floss strands have a smoother direction. It can be felt if you pull it through your fingers. This might be useful when picking up floss that hasn't just come off the hank/spool.
Yes that is correct! A couple other viewers reminded me of this as well :) thanks for tuning in today, happy stitching!
Great tips!
Thank you Kim!
Stitching in hand has been my preference for years - just recently using only 1 floss which is helpful with twisting etc. I do find there are times that my tension is different. Worst problem ... I have developed thumb arthritis and it is aggravated stitching in hand.
Oh that’s the worst! Is your thumb btr if you switch between in hand and in frame?
Great video, a lot of useful information. I am guilty of having long cuts of thread. Need to start working with shorter cuts.
You can do it! It will be worth it, I promise you!
Wonderful! Loved this! Thank you!!!
You’re welcome! Glad you enjoyed it.
If you're stitching lying in bed because you don't have the energy to sit up, you can prop your hoop or frame on your knee or whatever as if that were a frame. Dominant hand on top of the fabric, non-dominant hand underneath.
I've never thought of that! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you 💕🤗
thanks, very helpful! I much prefer stitching in hand, it just more comfortable as well as faster.
You’re most welcome - I’m so glad you found it helpful!
Thanks for the tips😊
Great flosstube. I’m eager to learn to stitch in hand . Thank you
You are in for a treat! I hope you enjoyed this video.
thank you!! ❤❤❤
You’re so welcome!
Thank you. Very informative!
Great tutorial!
Awesome tips Thank you!
You are most welcome :)
This was very helpful, thank so much.
You are most welcome!
I'm a relatively new subscriber to your channel and this has been a great episode. I have been getting into cross stitch for a while now and I appreciate your tips on the threads because I always tend to have issues with knitting, breaking due to fraying. I never thought about the floss being pulled from the wrong end. I'm still trying to see what fabric counts work for me and have been restarting quite a few projects. Other than a lowrey stand, what other stand would you recommend?
Thank you for following along on my stitching journey! I hope you continue to enjoy the episodes :) The wonderful thing about stitching is that it is an evolving process and one that is different for everyone. Personally, I use a Needlework System 4, travel edition with the qsnap frame, although I’m looking to purchase a scroll attachment bc my chatelaine. I love it because it folds down to fit in a suit case, yet the base is really stable. I can tuck it in to work really close or go over the arm of a couch etc. I bought the arm extension so I can easily adjust to stitch whichever height/angle I want. You can also flip the qsnap around in a circle as you please with a flick of a finger so turning your work over is a breeze :)
@karenheath-bp6 you can see the stand info here
@@FibersandFlossCanada thank you.
Erica,like you I have stitched in hand for 40+ years, don't care to use a frame at anytime.❤
Thank you for tuning in today Anne. Stitching in hand is so comforting for me and it sounds like it may be for you too!
Any tips on identifying the "right" side of the thread vs the "Wrong" side when you don't keep floss either on a spool or in the DMC package? I seldom use those spooled silks and I put DMC on bobbins (please don't judge!).
Thanks for a good tutorial!
Yes! Delicately run a strand between your thumb and index finger, notice the texture, how smooth is it? Now do the same from the opposite end of the strand and compare the textures…. The smooth side is the side to thread with if that makes sense? I will review this in my flosstube next Tuesday :)
Great video! I am a hoop stitcher using the sewing method. Can't wait to see how to stitch in hand.
Thank you for tuning in today Sharon :)
Great tips! I was wondering what type of frame you are using? It looks like it attaches to your table. Currently I use a floor frame which is good for most projects but I have a lap frame which I use for smaller projects however I am not crazy about it. Thanks! PS. I just found you and look forward to watching you more.
Thank you for tuning in today! I use a needlework system 4 travel floor stand with the arm extender for various heights/angles and the qsnap holder
❤
I would add, don't stitch with multiple threads. Sure, the stranded cotton is designed for that .. but making the multiple strands sit down nicely is an extra step you don't have when you use a single strand of perle or another embroidery thread that is matched to your canvas count.
20:36 you mention a video on keeping threads untwisted. which channel has that video?
It was Nicola Parkman from Hands Across the Sea :)
Thank you
You’re welcome! Hope you found the tips helpful 😊
@FibersandFlossCanada i did
Great video! I have a question…if using the loop start method, the directionality of the thread won’t work so should I keep using the loop method or not? I always seem to get some ‘fuzziness’ to my thread which drives me crazy! Not to mention fighting with cut ends that want to come through the front too. 😢
Honestly Lisa, do whatever works best for you. Whichever technique you find eliminates the fuzziness so you can enjoy the stitching :) I frequently use a loop start if it calls for 2 threads. The beautiful thing about stitching is the number of different ways to do things and the fact we stitchers move between many different techniques in a piece based off the requirements of the piece, your mood, your flow state, the stitching pathway etc… do whatever feels right on the day you are stitching ❤️
@@FibersandFlossCanada❤ Thank you!
I stitch some things in hand but lately have started using hoops more. In the past I’ve also used stands with scroll rods which I liked because I do like 2 handed stitching. Is there a lap stand you could recommend that holds hoops? I’ve seen some online but don’t know how secure they hold them (like if they sag or are a pain to get at the back to start and end threads).
Thank you for tuning in tonight. Unfortunately I don’t know anything about lap stands. I’ve often assumed they would wobble but a stitchy friend recently purchased one… I should ask her what she thinks of it…
Thank you so much for this video , it was a great help . I would love to try stitching in hand and look forward to your next video . I loved the look of your stand what make is it ? Hope you don't mind me asking . Thank you once again .
You are so welcome! I commented on another comment here about the stand and gave all the info. Look for @fiberaddict71 ;)
Thank you so much for doing this video it was great. Is there a way to tell if you are stitching with the correct end of the thread with weeks or color & cotton?
Yes! Take a piece of thread and run your fingers slowly along the length, then run your fingers back up the thread in the opposite direction. One way will feel smoother and that is the tip you want to thread with :) of course, you need to have good feeling in your fingers!