You’ve put in a lot of effort to create a beautiful cross stitch and now you want to elevate it to impress your loved ones with a truly exceptional present. While the stitching alone is already an amazing gift, you can enhance your projects by incorporating the following techniques to add extra embellishments and make your work stand out!
1. Use metallic threads to add some bling and sparkle to your stitching
When it comes to embellishing your cross stitch, metallic threads can be a game-changer. You can incorporate them into the fabric itself for an all-over shimmer effect, or add them directly into your stitching for a subtle yet eye-catching touch. To do this, simply take one strand of metallic thread and add it to your regular 2 strands of floss as you stitch. This works particularly well when accentuating flowers or borders. For holiday projects, adding a touch of sparkle to the snow can make all the difference. Alternatively, you can use fabric that already has a sparkle weave for your holiday-themed base.
Working with metallic threads can be difficult due to their tendency to fray and break easily during stitching. To minimize this issue, it is recommended to use shorter strands of floss when working with metallics and to frequently untwist your threads.
2. Add dimension to elements of your project by using beads
Adding beads to your stitching is a great way to enhance its overall appeal. Mill Hill offers a vast range of beads that can be easily found on most cross stitch suppliers’ websites. However, you can use any beads that suit your project and look impressive. They provide a visually stunning effect and depth to vital parts of your project. You can even use them as a substitute for French knots or to introduce a pattern in a wide empty area.
Adding beads to your project is a simple process. First, choose the spot where you want to add the bead and pull your needle up from the back. Thread the bead and sink the needle just a few threads away or one hole away, depending on the size of the bead. Secure your thread at the back and you’re ready to continue your project. It’s important to be mindful of the hole size of the bead and the needle size you are using. Cross stitch needles can be relatively large and have a blunt end, so you may want to use a beading needle to work with more delicate and fine beads. Beading packages should indicate the appropriate needle size needed to thread the beads, so keep an eye out for that.
Chatelaine Designs produces truly remarkable work. She employs a variety of techniques outlined in this post, but what sets her apart is how seamlessly she incorporates beading into her designs. If you’re in search of inspiration, I highly recommend browsing her website to peruse her patterns and view photos of her finished pieces.
3. Using painted or dyed fabric can really embellish your cross stitch
In today’s world, it is quite common to dye linen or aida fabric in order to add a unique touch to your artwork. You can easily find custom fabrics at cross stitch supply stores, as well as on Etsy. Incorporating one of these lovely and distinctive fabrics into your piece can certainly enhance its visual appeal. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try dyeing the fabric yourself! There are numerous YouTube videos and blogs available that offer guidance on fabric dyeing for embroidery. So why not experiment and give it a shot with your next project?
I am fascinated by the idea of dyeing the fabric yourself. I have seen executed with impressive results on multiple occasions. There are various techniques to achieve it, but my personal favourite involves the use of watercolours. Only a small amount of paint is required as it spreads quickly on fabric. To avoid any mishaps that may damage your precious stitches, it is recommended that you apply the paint prior to stitching. Use a thin brush to get the best results.
When considering specialty fabric, the Crossed Wing Collection immediately springs to mind. For years, this renowned company has been creating exquisitely painted and dyed linen and fabrics, perfect for embroidery. If you’re not keen on painting or dyeing your own fabric, this is an ideal destination to source a distinctive cloth to adorn your cross stitch endeavor.
Nicki Franklin of The Stitchery may not produce cross stitch patterns but her technique for adding watercolour to her embroidery patterns is absolutely gorgeous. This is a link to one of her blog posts that beautifully displays her artistry.
4. Add Beautiful Specialty Stitches
Embroidery offers a variety of specialty stitches that can be utilized to enhance and personalize your cross stitch project. These unique stitches, ranging from Lazy Daisy to Rhodes stitch, can add an extra touch of flair and distinction to your work. Whether serving as the focal point of your creation or as subtle accents that add depth and intrigue, these stitches provide endless creative possibilities. While mastering these techniques may require some practice, the reward is a world of stitching opportunities waiting to be explored.
When it comes to specialty stitches, a few designers immediately come to mind. One of them is Teresa Wentzler, whom I have admired for a long time. Her designs are simply stunning, and she uses specialty stitches in a flawless way. She incorporates pulled thread and Hardanger techniques, as well as other gorgeous stitch work, to create beautiful shapes in her designs.
Freda’s Fancy Stitching on Etsy has a store with a ton of beautiful patterns that showcase specialty stitches really well. While her patterns aren’t cross stitch specifically, incorporating some of these special stitches and blocks into your work can give it such dimension and depth.
5. Embellish your cross stitch with Charms or personal items
Unique charms can add such a special touch to a piece .I have completed several projects in the past that included little gems. They add such a sweet touch to a birth sampler or a memorial item. These charms could be anything from a locket that belonged to a lost loved one, to one of the hundreds of adorable charms you can buy in cross stitching specialty shops like Stoney Creek. This company is the queen of adding little charms in their patterns. From tiny ballet slippers to spider charms they have something to suit any project or theme.
Elevating your cross stitch creations to a higher level requires dedication and hard work, but the outcome is truly breathtaking and certain to garner admiration and appreciation from those who see your work. Therefore, take a moment to think about your current or future project and consider these recommendations to embellish your cross stitch.
