Just wanted to tell you how much I'm enjoying your flosstube! I'm learning so many new things and you explain things so well. Your videos are a bright spot in my day....thanks!
At 40 years in, I'm not a beginner, but havestitched only on Aida for years. I needed a refresher and reinforcement to my memory of starting by a vertical thread. Thank you for the clear explanation of stitching on evenweave - in this case 32ct Laguna. I'll share this for sure!
Really helpful and clearly explained. I’ve been stitching for 15 years but have only ever used aida. I feel much more confident to try linen now, thank you.
I’m an experienced stitcher, embroidery, patchwork, fashion and cross stitch but I have never been taught cross stitch and just pick things up as I go. Thank you so much for passing on all of your wonderful knowledge. I have always done cross stitch on Aida but have purchased my first linen project ‘ Dutch Beauty’ and I’m so grateful for the tips you are showing which will be a great help when I get started. I’ve always started with a waste knot but I’m loving the loop and pin stitch starts and finishes. My great Aunt taught me to stitch when I was six, she had so many types of beautiful work, now that I am retired I aim to make and design some samplers of my own to explore more techniques. I look forward to the time when I can travel to the U S and join in one of your tutorials. Loving the floss tube community. Many thanks 🙏😍 Maureen, Northumberland UK
Very timely for me since I am starting my first linen project. Unfortunately, I noticed that I have started stitching over the horizontal first but I was glad to hear that as long as I’m consistent it will be OK. There is such a big space between the border and the next part of the pattern that I think I can change and start the proper way. So happy to have found your videos. I am a returning to Crosstitch from the 80s and 90s. Much has changed and I have much to learn. With more time at home it is a perfect time to rediscover Crosstitch! Thanks for sharing all your knowledge…
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks You didn’t misunderstand. I thought since there were so many spaces between the the border and next motif that I might be able to switch but thought better of it when I got to that point. I will just remember this newfound information for the next project. Thanks for the follow up!
Thank you so much for talking about the “rule” of starting at a horizontal thread. I was told I should always do that and believed it was a hard fast rule. Glad to know it isn’t.
Thank you so much for a wonderful explanation of linen!! I was looking for a tutorial just like this as I'm just getting ready to try my first linen project! I'm 61 and have cross stitched for years but always on Aida. I'm very excited to try this but when I was looking at my linen piece which is 32 ct. it seemed so much different than I'm used to. After your excellent explanation I now feel confident I'm going to be able to learn this!! Thank you again. Now to get busy!! Oh, and you now have a new subscriber!! I can't wait to watch your other videos!!
This was exactly the information I have been searching for. I don't have a LNS and couldn't find this exact information anywhere online. I appreciate your strong opinions. The vertical thread tool is the missing piece in my learning. Thank you!
My first linen project was 35 years ago, a Peter Rabbit baby sampler for my first child. I stitched with no problem at all. I the next 20 years I stitched only on Aida then did a 50th anniversary sampler on linen for my mother & father-in-law. It was so hard for me I vowed never to do it again! I think it was because my close vision had changed. Now with good light and magnification I stitch on all kinds and counts of fabrics.
Your simple illustration has helped me more so than any other tutorial I have watched to date. Let me just say I have watched them all almost. I FINALLY GET IT!! So thank u THANK YOU!!!!
Another clear and concise tutorial. I always stitch two over two and have never felt intimidated by linen and any slubs which may come along. I appreciate this tutorial as I shall start my next project next to the correct stitch. Thank you!
That was so helpful. I’m currently stitching on an 18 count Aida and I’ve just bought my first piece of linen, a 28 count to practice on. Your very clear instructional video has thankfully taken a lot of apprehension away from me. I’ve also treated myself to two small sampler patterns so hopefully I will see some progress as I learn and complete each of them. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thank you so much!!!!! I am starting a project using 32 ct linen and was totally confused until watching your video. Have just completed 3 lines 😊 and you have made it so easy for me. Many more to go 😅 but feel so much more confident. Thank you!!!!
I’ve been afraid to stitch on linen because of stitching over two threads plus I shake a lot. I’m going to try it! Thank you for teaching about the vertical and horizontal threads!
Again I must thank you for your expertise and teaching style, it is perfect for me. I am a newbie. Have stitched a few projects on evenweave and recently have purchased 28 ct cashel linen. OMG, I wish I could stitch in hand (which I am beginning to use, no more qsnap) without a magnifier! Kudos to all stitchers that can see those small X’s. I wonder if you had tips on keeping a constant tension while stitching in hand?
I don't use a magnifier but I do have very strong "readers" that allow me to see clearly. As for getting the right tension ... I think that just takes practice! Luckily, it's fun!
I don't stitch on linen that much. Every time I do I watch this video to make sure I am starting in the right place. It is perfect and so easy to understand. Thank you!
I just loved this video Jean! So clear and understandable. I’m challenging myself to attempt linen because I’m a traditionalist at heart and love the finished look of a piece done on it. Thank you also for cheering me on at the end of this video that “I can do it and you know I can!”.
Thank you this helped a ton. I have only stitched on Aida the last year and I will be attempting linen when my order comes in. 😃 I feel much better and less terrified. Lol
Jean, seems I missed this podcast…I try to be consistent…thanks for the information…I took your advise today and went to my eye person, she was a big help and set me up with a stitching pair of glasses….I have some astigmatism and three strokes damaged my right eye with double vision 22 years ago, so these need to be corrected too…the $1.00 pair off the shelf cost over $300, and my husband finally agreed it was money well spent…thanks for that information too…stay safe and happy stitching❤️
Again, so much valuable information. Thank you Jean, because even though I have been cross stitching on and off for over thirty years, I am just now feeling confident to try linen, and that is in large part, due to your videos.
I just started on Linen about 3 months ago. It took me about a week and I caught right on. I have stitched on higher counts and like them all. Great video!
I have been stitching since 1988. I met a lady who taught me when I moved to the area I live in. I still stitch and love it so much. I appreciate the way you teach and the fact that it’s all up to the stitcher and what they see as far as the threads in the linen are concerned. I like a tightly woven linen as opposed to the loose soft linens. That’s my choice and I see vertical threads easier. My way of stitching. I tend to stitch on both even weave and linen depending on the project and the direction it takes me. Thank you so much! So happy I stumbled across your YT channel 😀
Thank you for this tutorial! It was very helpful. Now I feel comfortable trying to stitch on something else besides 14 count. Just hope my eyes can handle it at this season of my life
Thank you! I had literally just started a project on linen when your tutorial popped up. I stitched on 28 ct linen in the 90's before I took a 20 plus year hiatus from stitching. My eyesight has changed tremendously & I have stayed away from linen since picking up stitching last year. I have only stitched 1 small project on 32 ct linen, enjoyed it with my magnifier/light. I love Evenweave fabrics but some projects just call for linen to me. You explain things so well and are such an encouragement, thank you! I needed to watch your video today! Sorry for rambling!
What a great video! I'm brand new to linen, (sitting here with 32ct Belfast in my hands, wearing the deer in the headlight look LOL) and your clear and concise explanation was exactly what I needed. I've already tried out a few stitches and I think I can actually do this! Thank you very much, Jean! 🥰
It warms my heart to know I helped a little. In no time at all, you will wonder what all the fuss was about. When you want some "company" as you stitch, watch my series as I stitched Hearts Come Home at Christmas ... you may find it helpful. Here's the link to the first one: ruclips.net/video/BDn12hivhj0/видео.html
Thank you so much for the clear instructions. I was so afraid to try linen, but I have an aboslutely wonderful pattern that I would like to do. Again, thank you.
Jean, thank you for this tutorial. I've watched others attempt to demonstrate the mystery of working on linen, and I think "I get it" as I am watching their videos, and then something is said (maybe its the vertical/horizontal thread start slipping) and I walked away feeling slightly more intimidated and dove right back into the comfort of my 18-count Aida. You have made the prospect of trying to put a few stitches on linen less scary. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! BTW, when stitching "over two" there should be no slippage ... that only happens when stitching incorrectly "over one" which I don't recommend until the "over two" is mastered.
I used aida on my first two projects 40 years ago and have used linen ever since for all whether it be cross stitch or hardanger or pulled thread and various stitching. Linen makes it an heirloom that will last.
Jean thankyou for the tutorial, I am an avid cross stitcher but always on Aida. I have been too terrified to try on linen, I finally plucked up the courage and bought my first piece of linen, and hence I found my way to your RUclips channel. Thankyou so much for making this very clear, and for the encouragement!! I'm actually excited to try this now x
I just finished "binge watching" yout FlossTube videos. I have been cross stitching since 1987 (off and on) and am happy to see some of my methods are spot on - and to learn how to correctly do others. Questions. Your thought process on "railroading" stitches and beginning with a pin stitch. Thanks!
Thank you SO much for this informative video! I'm a total newbie using some tightly woven 32 count linen scraps and it's very challenging, but satisfying at the same time.
I am so, so glad you did this video! I have tried to explain this to new stitchers using words, without a visual, but probably pretty unsuccessfully. I think many new stitchers are afraid of linen, because they think they’ll mis-stitch by one thread. It’s impossible to do that if you always start a stitch next to a vertical thread. It becomes second nature pretty quickly. I had been taught that starting next to a vertical thread supports the stitch better. Since I’ve never done it any other way, I don’t know if that is true, though.
This was a great video, thank you. I once stitched 'off' the vertical thread and wondered the whole way through why I was struggling - my needle didn't find the holes so easily and the stitches didn't look good. I am of the opinion it does matter that you start alongside the vertical thread. Have just stitched on a doodle cloth in the 'off' placement and my Xs definitely don't sit so well in the linen. Alongside the vertical thread they imbed - off the vertical thread they fight alongside the linen threads. Sadly, I can't show you a photo
It's good that you have found what works for you. However, just for the record, every hole in an evenweave or linen is surrounded by two vertical threads and two horizontal threads. Every hole is the same.
Thank you for this! I'm an aida stitcher who is about to start an evenweave project for the first time. I found this helpful. I too would be interested in seeing how to stitch over 1 as my project has an alphabet portion that must be stitched over 1 while the rest of the piece is stitched over 2. Thanks! Well explained as always!
Jean could you do a video on which side of the linen is the correct side to stitch on? I have always been told the smooth side of the fabric is the wrong side, is this true?
My sewing machine is always at the ready so I just zig zag the edges. Way back when I used Fray Check routinely and still use it when finishing small 3-D shapes. Lately, I am inclined to do nothing and plan for a quarter inch or so to just unravel. It won't unravel forever!
Jean do you have a lighted magnifier you could recommend for stitching on smaller counts. I usually stitch on my couch so the table magnifier seems tricky to angle, and the floor versions are too expensive. Any laptop options perhaps? Thanks!
This is probably a stupid question but since the linen fabric is so fine, I'm going to ask it anyway. When you start a project on linen, do you still count the holes to find the middle of the fabric or do you guestimate the center of the fabric? I've watched several of these stitching 2x2 video's and that has never been addressed. Thank you!
First of all, I count the threads, not the holes. But to find the center of a piece of fabric, I just fold in quarters. Also, there is no such thing as a stupid question ... and if I misunderstood and failed to fully answer your great question, please let me know!
I'm getting ready to start 18 count natural linen for the first time and I'm glad that I found your video. It is very informative! In watching, I noticed that when you make your X, you go from bottom left to top right and then come back to do top left to bottom right. I always stitch top left to bottom right and then cross over top right to bottom left. I'm doing my x's differently than you. Am I making my stitches wrong? Thank you for your help.
I use three different methods depending on the shape of the area. There is no "one way" to make a cross stitch as long as the top leg of every stitch has the same slant.
Hello Jean, wonderful tutorial on stitching on linen. Being an even weave girl, it encourages me to try linen and not be intimidated. I do have a question for you. I'm doing the Hearts come home stitch along , but I can't find all the cosmo colors. Can you share your source? Ideally, I'd like to use all cosmo threads vs some cosmo and some dmc. Thanks in advance.
I buy my floss from a distributor so that isn't going to help you. Here is one shop that carries Cosmo but I have suggested them so many times I don't know if they have any left! A Stitching Shop Denver, CO 303-727-8500 Also try quilt shops ... they are way ahead of needlework shops when it comes to Cosmo.
Learned to stitch on linen at a retreat by Pat Rogers. We started on even weave, and when I got the hang of it, I switched to linen. QUESTION: In the "good old days," it was stressed that if you use linen, you should use silk or cotton, but not both on one piece. If you want an heirloom piece, then you should use silk as silk lasts longer. Is this true? Or was this an old wives tale.
I have used both on a single project and never gave it a thought. It wouldn't surprise me to find that silk lasts longer than cotton ... but what range are we talking about? Did the expert give evidence or say how much longer?
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks "Expert" now that's the operative word. Any number of designers from the 80s and 90s would have said that. And we're talking about a period of 100 yrs. plus. Frankly, I know that my family will not keep my needlework for 100 yrs. It could have been Pat Rogers, Marilyn Vredevelt, Dawn Lewis. They all loved linen and encouraged everyone to try it. For a while I spurned Aida, but now I work on both, especially 20 ct. Aida. I love linen and encourage anyone to try it. But I also like the simplicity of Aida. So, I don't normally use silk and cotton together. Mostly because I can't afford silk. I have a supply of silk fiber, but I cling to it like it was gold. Thanks sooooo much for all the informative videos. Take care.
I'm a beginner cross stitcher on linen and I don't have a close LNS so I have to buy on line which is fine but sometimes pictures don't do justice or look different than what they really are. My question is what would be a good linen to start with? Not sure which ones are a loose weave. Thank you
There's a vey long list of good choices. From Zweigart, I like Cashel (28 threads per inch) and Belfast (32 threads per inch). They both come in a wide range of colors and are readily available. I also love 30-count Legacy linen.
Dear Jean, what a fantastic video. I’m a completely new xstitcher and just realized I’ve been doing it all wrong. There’s no space between my stitches, so I guess I’ve been doing 1 over 1 ? 😂. Oh well, live and learn. I have a really dumb question and that is, “can you use linen fabric bought at a store like Joann’s and it work for xstitching or is that fabric weaved differently?” .. thank you so much for your videos. I’ve learned so much from you. 🙋🏻♀️
I think you are asking about dress making or home decor type linen. To be called linen, it should be 100% flax. Linen for purposes other than needlework may be a blend and they may be treated or "finished" with different applications not used for needlework linen. They are also not necessarily even weaves. With all the recent interest in linens with a different thread count on the warp and weft, that's not a problem ... just be aware. So bottom line, yes, they can be used for counted cross stitch.
Hi! I just rewatched this video. What a kind, encouraging person you are! Thank you for the clear explanation. 😊
Just wanted to tell you how much I'm enjoying your flosstube! I'm learning so many new things and you explain things so well. Your videos are a bright spot in my day....thanks!
Oh thank you! That makes my heart happy!
After cross stitching on Aida over 30 years, I feel confident that I can stitch on linen after seeing your visual of the threads. Thank you!
You can do it!
At 40 years in, I'm not a beginner, but havestitched only on Aida for years. I needed a refresher and reinforcement to my memory of starting by a vertical thread. Thank you for the clear explanation of stitching on evenweave - in this case 32ct Laguna. I'll share this for sure!
I'm so happy to know it was helpful!
Really helpful and clearly explained. I’ve been stitching for 15 years but have only ever used aida. I feel much more confident to try linen now, thank you.
Wonderful!
I’m an experienced stitcher, embroidery, patchwork, fashion and cross stitch but I have never been taught cross stitch and just pick things up as I go. Thank you so much for passing on all of your wonderful knowledge. I have always done cross stitch on Aida but have purchased my first linen project ‘ Dutch Beauty’ and I’m so grateful for the tips you are showing which will be a great help when I get started. I’ve always started with a waste knot but I’m loving the loop and pin stitch starts and finishes. My great Aunt taught me to stitch when I was six, she had so many types of beautiful work, now that I am retired I aim to make and design some samplers of my own to explore more techniques. I look forward to the time when I can travel to the U S and join in one of your tutorials. Loving the floss tube community. Many thanks 🙏😍 Maureen, Northumberland UK
Thank you for watching. It sounds like you are enjoying retirement!
Very timely for me since I am starting my first linen project. Unfortunately, I noticed that I have started stitching over the horizontal first but I was glad to hear that as long as I’m consistent it will be OK. There is such a big space between the border and the next part of the pattern that I think I can change and start the proper way.
So happy to have found your videos. I am a returning to Crosstitch from the 80s and 90s. Much has changed and I have much to learn. With more time at home it is a perfect time to rediscover Crosstitch! Thanks for sharing all your knowledge…
Unless I misunderstand something, you can't switch in the middle of a project.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks You didn’t misunderstand. I thought since there were so many spaces between the the border and next motif that I might be able to switch but thought better of it when I got to that point. I will just remember this newfound information for the next project. Thanks for the follow up!
Thank you very much. Great info for me to hear as a novice. Linen- here I come. 🎉
Once again, wonderful information. Thank you Jean Farish.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you! This was so helpful as an experienced cross stitcher moving from aida to linen
Thank you so much for talking about the “rule” of starting at a horizontal thread. I was told I should always do that and believed it was a hard fast rule. Glad to know it isn’t.
There are so many myths out there and they just keep on keeping on!
Best video on stitching on linen. Very clear. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much for a wonderful explanation of linen!! I was looking for a tutorial just like this as I'm just getting ready to try my first linen project! I'm 61 and have cross stitched for years but always on Aida. I'm very excited to try this but when I was looking at my linen piece which is 32 ct. it seemed so much different than I'm used to. After your excellent explanation I now feel confident I'm going to be able to learn this!! Thank you again. Now to get busy!! Oh, and you now have a new subscriber!! I can't wait to watch your other videos!!
I'm so happy to know that it helped you! Welcome!
This was exactly the information I have been searching for. I don't have a LNS and couldn't find this exact information anywhere online. I appreciate your strong opinions. The vertical thread tool is the missing piece in my learning. Thank you!
I'm happy to help!
My first linen project was 35 years ago, a Peter Rabbit baby sampler for my first child. I stitched with no problem at all. I the next 20 years I stitched only on Aida then did a 50th anniversary sampler on linen for my mother & father-in-law. It was so hard for me I vowed never to do it again! I think it was because my close vision had changed. Now with good light and magnification I stitch on all kinds and counts of fabrics.
Thanks for sharing!
Hello how are you
Your simple illustration has helped me more so than any other tutorial I have watched to date. Let me just say I have watched them all almost. I FINALLY GET IT!! So thank u
THANK YOU!!!!
Another clear and concise tutorial. I always stitch two over two and have never felt intimidated by linen and any slubs which may come along. I appreciate this tutorial as I shall start my next project next to the correct stitch. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
That was so helpful. I’m currently stitching on an 18 count Aida and I’ve just bought my first piece of linen, a 28 count to practice on. Your very clear instructional video has thankfully taken a lot of apprehension away from me. I’ve also treated myself to two small sampler patterns so hopefully I will see some progress as I learn and complete each of them. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.
Thank you so much!!!!! I am starting a project using 32 ct linen and was totally confused until watching your video. Have just completed 3 lines 😊 and you have made it so easy for me. Many more to go 😅 but feel so much more confident. Thank you!!!!
As a beginner this is a great detail video, thanks so much 🤩 more would be fantastic
I’ve been afraid to stitch on linen because of stitching over two threads plus I shake a lot. I’m going to try it! Thank you for teaching about the vertical and horizontal threads!
Let me know how it goes. Good luck!
Hi Jean. I love and value your lessons! Look Forward to each one and can’t wait for the next one🤗
Thanks so much!
Again I must thank you for your expertise and teaching style, it is perfect for me. I am a newbie. Have stitched a few projects on evenweave and recently have purchased 28 ct cashel linen. OMG, I wish I could stitch in hand (which I am beginning to use, no more qsnap) without a magnifier! Kudos to all stitchers that can see those small X’s. I wonder if you had tips on keeping a constant tension while stitching in hand?
I don't use a magnifier but I do have very strong "readers" that allow me to see clearly. As for getting the right tension ... I think that just takes practice! Luckily, it's fun!
I don't stitch on linen that much. Every time I do I watch this video to make sure I am starting in the right place. It is perfect and so easy to understand. Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Hi Jean! Excellent videos!! Can you do a video on stitching over one on linen!? Thank you!! 💐
I'll add it to the list of topics to cover!
This was an extremely helpful explanation/demonstration of stitching on linen. Now I have confidence to start my project. Thank you!!
I just loved this video Jean! So clear and understandable. I’m challenging myself to attempt linen because I’m a traditionalist at heart and love the finished look of a piece done on it. Thank you also for cheering me on at the end of this video that “I can do it and you know I can!”.
Wonderful!
Thank you this helped a ton. I have only stitched on Aida the last year and I will be attempting linen when my order comes in. 😃 I feel much better and less terrified. Lol
Jean, seems I missed this podcast…I try to be consistent…thanks for the information…I took your advise today and went to my eye person, she was a big help and set me up with a stitching pair of glasses….I have some astigmatism and three strokes damaged my right eye with double vision 22 years ago, so these need to be corrected too…the $1.00 pair off the shelf cost over $300, and my husband finally agreed it was money well spent…thanks for that information too…stay safe and happy stitching❤️
Hello! Thank you for sharing your knowledge on linen. Loved it. Make it a great day!
Thank you! You too!
Again, so much valuable information. Thank you Jean, because even though I have been cross stitching on and off for over thirty years, I am just now feeling confident to try linen, and that is in large part, due to your videos.
Wonderful!
Ditto! Thank you so much. I'm also new to linen and your a great Teacher. You make it so easy now.
You are so welcome!
Jean, thank you so much for this tutorial! Your videos and tutorials are so incredibly helpful. - Clay
Glad you like them!
I love that you teach on your tutorials. It is so helpful as a new stitcher. Thank you.
Thank you so much!
Hi, total beginner, thank you so much for clarifying where to stitch! Just be consistent will be my mantra. Off to play😁
Wonderful!
Very helpful! Stitching on linen for the first time it gets easier with each stitch. Thank you for taking the time to teach.
I just started on Linen about 3 months ago. It took me about a week and I caught right on. I have stitched on higher counts and like them all. Great video!
That is awesome! Once it "clicks" it is so easy, isn't it?
Thank you! You are a wonderful teacher. I appreciate your videos so very much.
I have been stitching since 1988. I met a lady who taught me when I moved to the area I live in. I still stitch and love it so much. I appreciate the way you teach and the fact that it’s all up to the stitcher and what they see as far as the threads in the linen are concerned. I like a tightly woven linen as opposed to the loose soft linens. That’s my choice and I see vertical threads easier. My way of stitching. I tend to stitch on both even weave and linen depending on the project and the direction it takes me. Thank you so much! So happy I stumbled across your YT channel 😀
I'm so happy that we have found each other!
I love all your videos, I never miss a video. The time you take to share your knowledge is so appreciated. Thank you so much!
Glad you like them!
Thank you for this tutorial! It was very helpful. Now I feel comfortable trying to stitch on something else besides 14 count. Just hope my eyes can handle it at this season of my life
Thank you! I had literally just started a project on linen when your tutorial popped up. I stitched on 28 ct linen in the 90's before I took a 20 plus year hiatus from stitching. My eyesight has changed tremendously & I have stayed away from linen since picking up stitching last year. I have only stitched 1 small project on 32 ct linen, enjoyed it with my magnifier/light. I love Evenweave fabrics but some projects just call for linen to me. You explain things so well and are such an encouragement, thank you! I needed to watch your video today! Sorry for rambling!
Ramble on! I'm just happy that we found each other!!
What a great video! I'm brand new to linen, (sitting here with 32ct Belfast in my hands, wearing the deer in the headlight look LOL) and your clear and concise explanation was exactly what I needed. I've already tried out a few stitches and I think I can actually do this! Thank you very much, Jean! 🥰
It warms my heart to know I helped a little. In no time at all, you will wonder what all the fuss was about. When you want some "company" as you stitch, watch my series as I stitched Hearts Come Home at Christmas ... you may find it helpful. Here's the link to the first one:
ruclips.net/video/BDn12hivhj0/видео.html
I’ve been anxious about moving away from Aida to stitching on linen. This video gave me a little confidence to try. Thank you!
You can do it!
Thank you so much. I was always told I HAD to start by vertical thread. Your knowledge is so appreciated.
You are so welcome!
Thank you so much for the clear instructions. I was so afraid to try linen, but I have an aboslutely wonderful pattern that I would like to do. Again, thank you.
You are an awesome instructor, I am so glad I found your videos..
I am learning so much and I have been stitching for years
Wonderful! Thanks for watching.
Thank you so much for explaining the process so very clearly, I can't wait to get started now 😄
Jean, thank you for this tutorial. I've watched others attempt to demonstrate the mystery of working on linen, and I think "I get it" as I am watching their videos, and then something is said (maybe its the vertical/horizontal thread start slipping) and I walked away feeling slightly more intimidated and dove right back into the comfort of my 18-count Aida. You have made the prospect of trying to put a few stitches on linen less scary. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! BTW, when stitching "over two" there should be no slippage ... that only happens when stitching incorrectly "over one" which I don't recommend until the "over two" is mastered.
I used aida on my first two projects 40 years ago and have used linen ever since for all whether it be cross stitch or hardanger or pulled thread and various stitching. Linen makes it an heirloom that will last.
Your teachings are fascinating. Thank You so much for your tutorial. I will practice this. 💕
You are so welcome!
Jean thankyou for the tutorial, I am an avid cross stitcher but always on Aida. I have been too terrified to try on linen, I finally plucked up the courage and bought my first piece of linen, and hence I found my way to your RUclips channel. Thankyou so much for making this very clear, and for the encouragement!! I'm actually excited to try this now x
You can do it!
Thank you very much. Your teaching has been totally concise, and yet very easy to understand.
I just finished "binge watching" yout FlossTube videos. I have been cross stitching since 1987 (off and on) and am happy to see some of my methods are spot on - and to learn how to correctly do others. Questions. Your thought process on "railroading" stitches and beginning with a pin stitch. Thanks!
Those are two good topics to cover ... I'll add them to my list :)
Thank you so much Jean. I binge watched your videos and have learnt so much. I look forward to future episodes. 🌺
You are so welcome!
You are simply the best my dear Jean....bless you and thank you.
❤🧡💛
Wow, thank you
Thank you, so interesting to hear a bit of history as well as the mechanics of it! Very good! Very informative.
Glad you enjoyed it!
This was very helpful. I'm starting to stitch on linen this week and so excited.
This is a wonderful tutorial. Very helpful. Thank you!
Thank you so much. I have been stitching for a long time and had never heard this before.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you SO much for this informative video! I'm a total newbie using some tightly woven 32 count linen scraps and it's very challenging, but satisfying at the same time.
I am so, so glad you did this video! I have tried to explain this to new stitchers using words, without a visual, but probably pretty unsuccessfully. I think many new stitchers are afraid of linen, because they think they’ll mis-stitch by one thread. It’s impossible to do that if you always start a stitch next to a vertical thread. It becomes second nature pretty quickly.
I had been taught that starting next to a vertical thread supports the stitch better. Since I’ve never done it any other way, I don’t know if that is true, though.
That myth grew out of a well-intended effort to teach new stitchers. I just don't buy it,
Thank you very much for your video, very helpful. I am new to linen,
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for this information! Very helpful with your diagram!
Such a well-done educational video! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Another great explanation for all stitchers..thanks so much!
You are so welcome!
Thank you for this. I have been struggling with figuring out this. It seems simple to the experienced but to the novice it is so difficult. Thank you.
You're very welcome! I love to help novice stitchers!
I really appreciate your very thorough explanations!
Thanks!
Hello Jean, this video is very helpful, thank you!
Thank you so much! The drawing and explanation was very helpful! I appreciate the detail.
Glad it was helpful!
Jean, thank you so much for your excellent tutorial and your expertise! Would love your guidance on one over one.
I'll add that to the list of topics to cover. Thanks for watching!
This was a great video, thank you. I once stitched 'off' the vertical thread and wondered the whole way through why I was struggling - my needle didn't find the holes so easily and the stitches didn't look good. I am of the opinion it does matter that you start alongside the vertical thread. Have just stitched on a doodle cloth in the 'off' placement and my Xs definitely don't sit so well in the linen. Alongside the vertical thread they imbed - off the vertical thread they fight alongside the linen threads. Sadly, I can't show you a photo
It's good that you have found what works for you. However, just for the record, every hole in an evenweave or linen is surrounded by two vertical threads and two horizontal threads. Every hole is the same.
Thanks for all of the good information! Love learning!💗
You are so welcome!
Thank you Jean for giving us your time. Happy 2021. Take care🤗
You are so welcome. Happy New Year!
Thank you for the fantastic tutorial!
Thanks again for another great tutorial! I am one of those transitioning from Aida to linen.
Wonderful!
Thank you so much,for this very helpful and informative video ❤,I am a newbie in embroidery on linen
Thanks again for sharing your expertise and encouragement.
My pleasure!
Thank you, very well explained. Feel more confident to tackle first attempt.
Thank you for this! I'm an aida stitcher who is about to start an evenweave project for the first time. I found this helpful. I too would be interested in seeing how to stitch over 1 as my project has an alphabet portion that must be stitched over 1 while the rest of the piece is stitched over 2. Thanks! Well explained as always!
Stitching "over one" is a whole different process. Right now, I need to focus on helping the novice stitcher with "over two" stitching.
Jean could you do a video on which side of the linen is the correct side to stitch on? I have always been told the smooth side of the fabric is the wrong side, is this true?
Good for you to be asking great questions! As far as I know, linen has no right / wrong side.
What do you do to prep your linen to keep it from unraveling if the edges are not prepped?
My sewing machine is always at the ready so I just zig zag the edges. Way back when I used Fray Check routinely and still use it when finishing small 3-D shapes. Lately, I am inclined to do nothing and plan for a quarter inch or so to just unravel. It won't unravel forever!
Excellent tutorial, thank you. I’m moving from evenweave to 36 count linen and I feel more confident.
Wonderful!
Thank you sharing your knowledge. I was wondering what is the pattern name of the America alphabet behind you?
It’s one of her own designs: America Land That We Love by Jean Farish . I found it on Etsy.
Very clear and concise information. Thanks!!
Glad it was helpful!
Jean do you have a lighted magnifier you could recommend for stitching on smaller counts. I usually stitch on my couch so the table magnifier seems tricky to angle, and the floor versions are too expensive. Any laptop options perhaps? Thanks!
I'd like to know this, too. I have the same problem with table and floor lamps.
Sorry ... I don't have any suggestions ... so far I have managed to stitch without a magnifier ... a blessing for sure!
This is probably a stupid question but since the linen fabric is so fine, I'm going to ask it anyway. When you start a project on linen, do you still count the holes to find the middle of the fabric or do you guestimate the center of the fabric? I've watched several of these stitching 2x2 video's and that has never been addressed. Thank you!
First of all, I count the threads, not the holes. But to find the center of a piece of fabric, I just fold in quarters. Also, there is no such thing as a stupid question ... and if I misunderstood and failed to fully answer your great question, please let me know!
I'm getting ready to start 18 count natural linen for the first time and I'm glad that I found your video. It is very informative! In watching, I noticed that when you make your X, you go from bottom left to top right and then come back to do top left to bottom right. I always stitch top left to bottom right and then cross over top right to bottom left. I'm doing my x's differently than you. Am I making my stitches wrong? Thank you for your help.
I use three different methods depending on the shape of the area. There is no "one way" to make a cross stitch as long as the top leg of every stitch has the same slant.
Hello Jean, wonderful tutorial on stitching on linen. Being an even weave girl, it encourages me to try linen and not be intimidated. I do have a question for you. I'm doing the Hearts come home stitch along , but I can't find all the cosmo colors. Can you share your source? Ideally, I'd like to use all cosmo threads vs some cosmo and some dmc. Thanks in advance.
I buy my floss from a distributor so that isn't going to help you. Here is one shop that carries Cosmo but I have suggested them so many times I don't know if they have any left!
A Stitching Shop
Denver, CO
303-727-8500
Also try quilt shops ... they are way ahead of needlework shops when it comes to Cosmo.
You can get them from fat quarter shop online, I have never used them yet. But some day.
Exactly what I was looking for. Thanks!!
Hi Melinda
Oh good!!! Oh my heavens you have helped me immensely
That makes my heart happy!
Learned to stitch on linen at a retreat by Pat Rogers. We started on even weave, and when I got the hang of it, I switched to linen.
QUESTION: In the "good old days," it was stressed that if you use linen, you should use silk or cotton, but not both on one piece. If you want an heirloom piece, then you should use silk as silk lasts longer. Is this true? Or was this an old wives tale.
I have used both on a single project and never gave it a thought. It wouldn't surprise me to find that silk lasts longer than cotton ... but what range are we talking about? Did the expert give evidence or say how much longer?
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks "Expert" now that's the operative word. Any number of designers from the 80s and 90s would have said that. And we're talking about a period of 100 yrs. plus. Frankly, I know that my family will not keep my needlework for 100 yrs. It could have been Pat Rogers, Marilyn Vredevelt, Dawn Lewis. They all loved linen and encouraged everyone to try it. For a while I spurned Aida, but now I work on both, especially 20 ct. Aida. I love linen and encourage anyone to try it. But I also like the simplicity of Aida. So, I don't normally use silk and cotton together. Mostly because I can't afford silk. I have a supply of silk fiber, but I cling to it like it was gold. Thanks sooooo much for all the informative videos. Take care.
very clear and logical. thank you
thank you! I might need to utilize my magnifying glass in order to stitch on tightly woven linen
I’m checking stitching on linen again. I think I’ll try on my little practice piece to make sure I have it right. I do have a bunch of magnifiers
Let me know if you have questions! Magnifiers and readers are great tools!
This was an awesome tutorial! Thanks
I'm a beginner cross stitcher on linen and I don't have a close LNS so I have to buy on line which is fine but sometimes pictures don't do justice or look different than what they really are. My question is what would be a good linen to start with? Not sure which ones are a loose weave. Thank you
There's a vey long list of good choices. From Zweigart, I like Cashel (28 threads per inch) and Belfast (32 threads per inch). They both come in a wide range of colors and are readily available. I also love 30-count Legacy linen.
I started with Weeks linen.
Exceptional tutorial! 🙏
Dear Jean, what a fantastic video. I’m a completely new xstitcher and just realized I’ve been doing it all wrong. There’s no space between my stitches, so I guess I’ve been doing 1 over 1 ? 😂. Oh well, live and learn. I have a really dumb question and that is, “can you use linen fabric bought at a store like Joann’s and it work for xstitching or is that fabric weaved differently?” .. thank you so much for your videos. I’ve learned so much from you. 🙋🏻♀️
I think you are asking about dress making or home decor type linen. To be called linen, it should be 100% flax. Linen for purposes other than needlework may be a blend and they may be treated or "finished" with different applications not used for needlework linen. They are also not necessarily even weaves. With all the recent interest in linens with a different thread count on the warp and weft, that's not a problem ... just be aware. So bottom line, yes, they can be used for counted cross stitch.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks you're the best. Thank you 🙋🏻♀️
❎ what is a good
sewing machine thread for linen
Thank you
🤺💐
I would love to know this to