Variety is the spice of life. This is true for your cross-stitch patterns. It’s good to try something new to mix things up from time-to-time. Why not try some fresh fabrics, new threads or give some speciality stitches a go? If you’re looking to try something different with your cross-stitch patterns, here are some ideas.

#1 – Fresh Fabrics

There are loads of different fabric types you can use to create your cross-stitch patterns, including:

• Aida
• Linens
• Several types of Even Weave
• Hardanger
• Canvas
• Perforated paper, and
• Specialty fabrics

Each different fabric has a unique texture, feel and sheen. They even smell different depending on the material type and the technique used to dye them.

If you’re a cross-stitch enthusiast who enjoys the smell and feel of fresh fabrics as you get them out of the box, we highly recommend trying out different materials.

The great thing about using different fabrics is that you can pick from a huge range of colours, too. You are spoilt for choice. Fabrics are the perfect place to start if you want to try something new.

#2 – New Threads

If you’re sick of using stranded cotton thread to create your cross-stitch patterns and you want something more adventurous, there are some great alternatives, including:

• Satin threads
• Metallic threads
• Perlé cotton
• Silk threads and
• Wool yarns

To add a silky, glamorous finish to your cross-stitch designs, satin or silk thread is an excellent option. If you want to add a bit of sparkle and light to your patterns, then try metallic threads.

For greater vibrancy, give wool yarns a go to really bring your designs to life. Wool yarns are more resistant to abrasion and better preserve the colour of your cross stitch patterns.

Like the variety of fabrics, threads come in an assortment of colours and thicknesses, giving you plenty of options to try new things.

Plus, some of these threads offer more of a challenge. They’re a terrific way to step-up your cross-stitch skills.

#3 – Specialist Stitches

If you really want to take your cross-stitch technique to the next level, you can learn advanced and specialist stitching styles. There are loads you can learn, and you’ve probably already seen some of them and wondered ‘wow, how do I do those?’

Here are a few advanced stitching styles you could try:

• Backstitch
• Quarter stitches
• Tent stitch / Continental stitch
• Squat stitches
• French knots or beads

To really push yourself, you can take on a range of specialist stitching techniques, including:

• Algerian Eyelet
• Diamond Eyelet
• Double Cross
• Jessica Stitch
• Lazy Daisies
• Rhodes Heart

There are hundreds you can try to improve your technique. Learning specialist stitching styles will certainly make your cross-stitch patterns more decorative. Plus, you will enter a whole new realm of cross-stitching where you will feel confident taking on any pattern. If you would like to try out some speciality stitches, then our Needle case and Scissor case patterns by Faby Reilly provide a brilliant introduction whilst creating something you can use daily with your stitching. Both charts are available as part of our membership.

#4 – Join a Cross-Stitch Community

If you have been going it alone on you cross-stitch journey, join a community of like-minded people, and find inspiration for new ideas, projects, and challenges. Stitchingly is a great network of people that helps you spend more time cross-stitching.

We have tutorials, tools, and products galore, giving you everything you need to try something new, all in one place. Need inspiration for your next project? Want to find projects based on the name, designer, or fabric? Join the Stitchingly family and be part of our cross-stitch movement.

Pulling the Threads Together

There’s always something new to try in the world of cross-stitch. If you want to develop your creativity, be part of Stitchingly’s exciting cross-stitch community for all the support you need. Join today.