I have stitched for 50 years and no matter where I was/am in my journey, I always wished someone would teach the absolute basics so that I could do my best. Thank you for doing that for the new stitchers and the ones that have been passionate about it for years. I look to you for educational videos. Thank you.
Hi Jean, Your stitches are perfect, you are the master. I wish my work was as beautiful as yours, I'm not going to stop stitching simply because my work is not perfect. I love your video's, thank you for sharing your expertise. I continue to improve.
Thanks for sharing your experiences and your knowledge. Your tutorials are so clear that they are easy for me to follow. I enjoy learning everything about needlework from you.
I also just use two magnets back-to-back for my needle minders. When stitching in hand, I put the magnets on a bottom corner instead of the top so that it doesn't pull down on the top.
Thank you for answering my question last week. To be mentioned on Flosstube, I felt like a celebrity! I can’t get enough of your very informative episodes.
I learned to cross stitch in the mid 80s - my back stitching never looked very good . Your tip about keeping the thread above or below the work is so helpful! I look forward to using it! Thanks for all your good advice.
You're a fabulous teacher! So happy that Sheila (Sunshine Stitchers) and Jan Hicks (Jan Hicks Creates) spoke of you in their video's. Thank you for the stitch tutorials, they've been so helpful. (My name is pronounced just Candy) :)
Great tips on backstitch and the stem stitch goes fast using the sewing method. Thanks for tips on framing too. I learned how to cross stitch in the 80’s and we always used DMC and the instructors really didn’t say anything about the right end of thread so this was interesting. Be safe and well. The games the boys played during our car rides were name the states, gave them each a blank piece of paper and off they went and always a game of “I spy with my little eyes” and it seems like it was yesterday but they had fun.
Kim, I’m behind in my RUclips viewing so I am just seeing your new thread display. I love how Everett built on my suggestion and used the clear plastic. The added arm to drape the fabric on is a great addition. Smart man, you have a keeper there! Enjoy using it
Another very informative and interesting video. I do look forward to them each Saturday. Using the overhead camera is a big help for understanding how to do the stitches. Thank you
I live in Central Illinois and I always went to Rock Home gardens cross stitch show, it was wonderful. after attending the show always went to cross stitch shop in Tuscola sadly that has long since closed. Another great video!
Loved hearing your Rockhome Gardens story, and it brought back fond memories of a trip I took with my Mom. We went on a 6 hour bus trip from our needlework store, The Stitching Post, in Kenosha, WI, to the show, and had a nice weekend there. It was a small bus 10 or 12 ladies. We also visited the Amish stores in the area. I hadn't thought of that in awhile. Sadly the store and my Mom are both gone now. I used to separate the DMC and use two strands together "going the right way", but now I learned the loop method and like that. Thanks you for your video, and the stem stitch/back stitch tutorial is most helpful.
It is so nice to hear from someone else who was there! I loved all the funky buildings and walls and "stuff" made from cement and bottles, broken crockery, etc. I need to search out some photos. Memories of loved ones and lovely times are so nice, aren't they?
Hi Jean. I always look forward to your tutorials and agree with the other commenter about needing more “teaching” on FlossTube. As a fairly new stitcher, I would love to watch how you add decorative buttons to a piece. Not regular button but rather enhancement buttons you would find at Just Another Button Co. Thanks so much for your contribution to the stitching community!
Thanks for the compliment! I don't have any projects that include buttons at the moment but I'll see what I can come up with. In general, I would choose a floss that blends with the button unless you want to add another element. Using a very easy example, if I were adding a heart button, I would choose a floss to match the heart. I don't think I have helped very much. ):
I have always struggled with backstitch, but this gives me hope I can get better! I'll definitely try your technique next time. Thank you for sharing all your stitchy wisdom! ❤
I'm in my 60s and was taught to stitch by my great Aunts and grandmother. I've enjoyed your videos and have learned a few great tips. I'm always ready to learn a new technique or try a new genre of stitching, but there is one area that does intimidate me and somewhat stress me out. You've mentioned several times cleaning your pieces. This always makes me worried I'll ruin a piece. Could you talk about what you think is the best way to clean, what product or products you use, are there any fibers that should never be cleaned, etc in one of your future flosstube videos?
Another wonderful and informative video. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I’m a self taught stitcher and I’ve had several “mind blown” and “a-ha” moments from the things you’ve taught us. Thank you again.
Hi Jean, thank you for another informative video. I was going to ask the question about glass or no glass and then you started talking about it. I was also taught that thread went one way and once the threads were removed from the 6 strands, to put a loose loop at the end that is threaded into the needle. That way, I would know which end to thread with when I needed more strands. It is interesting how things can differ depending on how we are taught. I also have found that those wire threaders don’t last very long before the wire comes out. Finally, I like your idea of using a scissor fob to identify the needle threader. Until the next one, stay safe and well. Kind regards, Di 💕🇦🇺
When all is said and done, stitchers need to follow the procedures that make sense to them. I'm not going to fault someone who takes the steps needed to keep track of the "correct" end but I know it's not for me :)
Hi Jean, I enjoyed this video just like all your previous ones. I believe I heard or read that you do your own version of railroading. I hope that’s on your list of future video topics which I’m sure continues to grow. 😃 Happy stitching!
Thank you so much, Jean. I have wondered about which end is which in floss, more when embroidering than in cross stitch. I had read some blogs with diagrams and tried some samples, but I can’t tell the difference and don’t need something more to worry about. I’m glad you think that way, too. I love your abc pattern and fondly remember those car games, too. Thanks for your video.
This has been a very interesting video. You are the first person I've listened to on Flosstube that pronounces "Aida" like the opera, not "Ada." Maybe it's because we are "children" of the 80s. :) I've just started using Sulky 12 wt. fiber which would work fine for backstitching on 28 ct. linen or 14 ct. Aida. I do not like backstitching, but now I've seen your technique, I will look forward to it. I remember your charts and I know that I have stitched several of your patterns, though I have none left. I tend to give my work away to friends and family, though I do keep some projects for myself. I use the loop method for stitching. One strand of DMC folded over, the cut ends in the needle, and I'm ready to stitch. I find that my stitches lay better with the loop method. Just my little quir I have also learned now to tame metallic thread, but that might be an interest topic, especially closer to Christmas when we tend to use it more than at other times. Take care, be safe, be well and I've subscribed so I look forward to next week's video. Going to go back and check the others out as well. Just noticed that my name is missing under my picture. I am Karen Brettschneider (shortened to Brett) from Woodstock, GA.
Thank you for the suggestion of using flower thread for letter backstitching. Last night, I was working on a project that uses silk and the lettering was looking very bad. I have some flower thread and will see if there is a color that will match. So enjoy your Flosstubes!
Hi Jean, Thank you for sharing your stitching wisdom. In a former video you warned us against using walnut stain to age the look of our needlework. Many people advocate stuffing pin pillows and bicornus with crushed walnut shells. Could not this also be acidic and wear on our work from the inside out? I saw a video recently about antique quilts and the curator was saying polyester fiberfill will wear and tear your quilts from the inside. What would you suggest to stuff out precious needlework with? And what about the batting used in framing?? Thanks for your suggestions.😊
I don't recall mentioning walnut stain previously. And I don't have any wisdom to share about batting or stuffing so I am not doing very well at answering your questions. But you are giving me some good ideas to research :)
You mentioned "antiquity spray" which you said was very acidic and had for your linen an threads. I may have assumed it controversies as other people refer to it as walnut spray. Anyway... Liked you sat... More research.☺
I have never heard of flower thread....interesting. I have been using quite a bit of the Sulky #12 threads and find them really nice especially on 28 or 32. They are a little bulky for 36, but I have used them kind of depending on the project. Thanks for all your tips and advice. I am going to order spacers immediately as I tend to frame my own pieces and I am sure the glass is touching the stitching. Thanks for another informative and clever video.
Another wonderful tutorial! You are answering so many questions and educating me on very specific topics that no one ever taught/shared years ago. For the most part, one was left to figure it out on their own. I am gaining so much confidence! I love the speciality stitches tutorials. I do have one question that is based on a previous episode; do you use any one specific conversion chart for DMC to Cosmos threads? There are several available from different shops and I have noticed some differences. I am anxious to try them. Again, thank you for sharing your knowledge and love of cross stitch!
I so look forward to all the information you share. Do any of your daughters stitch? Also, have you written any books on stitching? Does Aida have a “right” side? One side seems flatter.
Both of my daughters have been stitching since age 6! I don't have any books published ... just my design charts. I don't think there's a right/wrong side to Aida.
Hi Jean, our farm is bordered on 2 sides with gravel roads. The dust coming into our home is quite substantial. I will have to put glass on my needlework. I wish I didn’t have to.
After I finished making the video, I thought about gravel roads and driveways and other environmental elements I should have thought about. In the long run, I think you'll be happier with the results.
Thank you so much for your video and tips! I was wondering if you would have any advice on how to store cross stitch when you live in a humid environment. This came up in my mind when you talked about using glass as a way to deal with humidity. I am an American living in Hong Kong - and while there is indoor air conditioning, indoor humidity is quite high and we have problems with mold etc. Thank you!
I really don't have any advice for you. I think I would want to rely on information coming from an expert in your geographical area. Do you see embroidery in shops or in private homes? What a challenge!
Jean. Inreally enjoyed your video. There is so much to learn. Would you show us how you use the needle threader that you use? I have never seen that one. Also, how old are your daughters and do they stitch or do any needlearts? Look forward to next week.
Just curious could we use Sulky 12 wt thread for flower thread. The reason I asked because its supposedly 2 times the size of a single thread of dmc floss?
Jean, I prefer the floss when it's matte rather than glossy for many projects. I'm a long time sewer, quilter, knitter but new to cross stitch. I've admired your work for years and Thomas Kinkade so I've decided to give it a go. Which companies make flosses that are more matte? Love knitting with rustic looking matte so I'm drawn to that look, rather than those slick shinny skeins.😝 Teri
When you say glossy, are you thinking of the rayon flosses used for Brazilian embroidery? Those are the ones with a high sheen. All the brands of cotton embroidery floss of which I am familiar have a light sheen to them. The over dyed flosses (which use floss manufactured by others as a base) are a little more muted. Flower thread is the only embroidery thread that I know of that is consistently matte.
I'm so excited to know this piece is your creation. I stitched this in the 80's and it is still hanging in my living room. My husband cut the mat and framed it for me and I still love it, but I didn't realize that I had stitched one of your pieces, I'm really honored to have stitched it. I entered it in the county fair and they criticized my work, because I did some traveling when I was stitching the words (I wouldn't do that now,) but at that time it was my first piece on linen and I didn't think about that showing through. I still love it. I so admire you and I'm just so happy I stitched it. Also happy to know the story behind it, by the way it is under glass. Thank you for making these videos, I'm still learning so much from you!
This piece is a challenge when it comes to avoiding traveling threads. I noticed quite a few when I started taking it apart after finishing the video. Thanks for watching!
I really enjoyed hearing the story behind Hometown ABC's. What a wonderful treasure for you and your daughters. Thank you for sharing your tips on Backstitching. I am pretty sure I have been doing it incorrectly. Is there a way to stitch letters/numbers on top of a fully filled area, such as a date? Example: I would like to put the date on a flower vase that has already been fully stitched. Thank you Jean! Stitch happy!
I'm glad you enjoyed the story. It is possible to back stitch over existing cross stitches ... it's done all the time. I did a LOT of it when stitching America Land That We Love. Look at the stitched "X" as if it is a square on the chart. I hope this helps ... if not, let me know and I'll see if I can find a better way to explain.
Hi Jean. Thank you for another very helpful video. I always love The segments where I can watch you stitch. Would you please instruct us on ironing our finished piece before framing? I would love to learn your ways of doing this properly. Thank you again for sharing your knowledge!
Jean Farish Needleworks, I feel like I need to start at Flosstube #1 and begin indexing your topics so I can refer to the correct video again in the future.
I always use glass, but it is museum glass. It protects the piece from fading, it is non glare and crystal clear with no reflection. It is on the expensive side, but worth it
Hi Jean, I agree with you regarding keeping needlework projects framed with a glass regardless if using a mat or not, but what is the result if no spacers are used and the glass touches your work?
I don't know what the long term effect would be (maybe nothing) but basically the glass will flatten the stitches. I should have mentioned it. I always think of a dozen things I should have said after the fact! :)
They really are two very different types of thread. A number 12 pearl cotton is similar in weight to flower thread but I wouldn't consider one a substitute for the other. I'll have to add this topic to my list of things to talk about.
Hi. I am so happy to have found you in floss tube! I love the way you explain how to improve our stitching skills. I haven't stitched in 16 years and I don't think there were 'fancy flosses' when I stitched. Unfortunately, there is no LNS in my county. There is one in the next county over but I can't drive that far nor have anyone to drive me there. I am having all sorts of problems with converting special floss to DMC. I have no problems finding DMC here but some charts don't include a DMC conversion. I have a DMC Color Card but can't find conversion color cards for the other kinds. I have googled and found some conversion charts but they are not complete or non-existent. Do you know where I can find this (or anyone you know)? Thanks in advance for any assistance. Look forward to many more videos and finally go to one of your classes when that is possible again.
BTW, upon making a new x stitch friend about a month ago (at Finishing Touch in Louisville, KY!), she was looking for a specific Ginnie Thompson flower thread. I told her I had a collection (from the late 80’s?) and she gave me a snippet which I took home a upon consideration, determined I did NOT have the proper red she was looking for to finish a project her mother had started (?) years ago. When I got online, I found that you can, in fact, purchase direct from “flowerthread.com”! As a side note, I was only missing 4 threads to complete my collection, and I believe one of those was the red my new-found friend was looking for! PS. Ginnie Thompson flower thread is pretty inexpensive!
Love your videos as I learn a lot from you which help improve my stitching. I have a question: do you do railroading to ensure your stitches lay flat? If not, what's your preferred technique? Thanks
Not exactly ... I use a different method to keep 2 strands parallel. If you watch Part 2 of the SAL videos, you'll see me do it at about the 14 minute mark.
Regarding glass v no glass: how were the samplers that are now being reproduced (E.g. from 17th century) kept in their day? Were they displayed, or kept stashed in a cabinet? If displayed, it probably wasn’t with glass because glass was expensive but they’ve made it to today, even if a bit worse for wear. I personally don’t frame my work, I keep it rolled up but I’ve always been amazed of how the antique samplers survived to today. There were no vacuum cleaners in those days, imagine the dust in those houses.
Who knows the percentage of surviving samplers compared to disintegrated samplers? Of those that survived intact, how many are in good shape? Yes, we see many fine examples in museums and private collections and are grateful for them.
Is there such a thing as acid-free foam core that is black? I can only find white, and I want to frame something on a dark blue dyed aida. Or should I just use a dark piece of backing fabric between my finished piece and the foam core, and pin them to the board together?
Hi Jean-I'm debating joining a floss club for NPI. Can you tell a big difference between silk and say DMC, for instance? Thank you for your professional opinion!
I don't have any experience with NPI ... I wish I did. I have not often stitched with silk. I go to Mary Corbet's blog for help and so I looked for an article she wrote for stitchers who are new to silk ... see if this helps ... www.needlenthread.com/2017/03/silk-hand-embroidery-thread-spun-silk.html
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thanks, Jean! This was a good article. I think I'll try getting a few skeins and see if there's a big difference. I have always used DMC and have almost all the colors. It's pretty daunting to think about starting to collect a whole new brand, but might be fun to give it a try on a smaller piece.
I have a request, please. It would be helpful to me if you could demonstrate the four sided stitch for alphabets. I’m addicted to your post. You are so generous. Thank you again.
I’ve been putting my work in a portfolio lately. I’m now 61 and am realizing my craft will probably end up at good will or the trash heap. I’m hoping by putting my projects in book form, it would be less cumbersome for my family/ancestors to hold onto. Shouldn’t bother me, but it does. Vanity? No. I spent my life on these charts.
Do you mean the threads in the linen fabric? If so, it just takes practice. I don't see it as any greater challenge to keep a good tension in hand than in a hoop or frame. It is possible to pull stitches too tightly when stitching fabric that is stretched tightly. If I have misinterpreted your question, let me know and I'll try again. :)
I think glass is best. A lot of time is put into the stitching, I just can’t help but think about setting them out exposed to dust, animal dander, etc makes it change color and look dirty.
Good Morning Jean, This is just a comment on what i was taught.....I started Counted Thread Embroidery in the early 1970’s......belonged to EGA and took lessons from many great teachers, like yourself. Somewhere along the line, I was taught that when you pull your one or two floss threads out of the six strand section, if the thread clump fell limp and did not hang up (together), the thread(s) you were pulling out, are in the proper direction. If you were not sure, you could hold the thread up to your stitching light, run the thread between your two fingers and see if the little hair-like fibers sticking up or laying flat. If you “thread” the thread into your needle with the thread so that it draws through the fabric and does not draw up the fibers, it is a smoother pull and the fibers lay smoother. i have seen those little hair-like fibers sticking up. You are saying that the DMC company experts say there is no right or wrong way. I laugh here and say, yes, maybe that is my problem...my head exploded long ago! As I read back over this, I am sure it has. Thank you for your wonderful teachings.
Sulky has a thread out that may be similar to flower thread. It is 12 wt. cotton thread on a 50 yd spool. One strand is equal to two strands of floss. Have you tried this brand yet? I like the coverage it gives on 28 linen.
I am very much enjoying your videos! I have been aware of your teaching reputation but have never thought that I would be able to attend a class. I feel like I'm finally able to learn from a wonderful teacher. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us. I especially appreciate your sharing your knowledge about framing. I was a framer for over 25 years and I cringe when I see works that have taken years to stitch with no protection. If stitchers could see what framers have seen over and over again, there wouldn't be an unglazed piece of needlework in sight! Again, thank you and I look forward to your next video.
Jean Farish Needleworks I live very near the Blue Ridge about 30 miles south of Charlottesville, VA. I drive parallel to them back and forth to work each day and drive up into the mountains whenever I can find the time. Thanks so much for what you contribute to the cross stitch community!
I posted the winner in the description last week: "The winner of last week's giveaway is Peggy Young! (Peggy, I added a reply to your winning comment with directions as to how to claim your prize.)"
Jean Farish Needleworks hoed I miss that? I’ve watched all of your videos? Well congratulations to Peggy, that was definitely a nice gift! I love your videos by the way, I like your honesty about things that really aren’t that important in the embroidery/stitching world and your tutorials are great.
Thank you again for your tutorial on stem and back stitches. Thank you for including the Aida fabric in the tutorial as this is helpful. Hope you received my email regarding DMC to Cosmo conversion. If not please let me know.
![Digital Circus Episode 4 [TRAILER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/abZtsmMUbJo/mqdefault.jpg)
I have stitched for 50 years and no matter where I was/am in my journey, I always wished someone would teach the absolute basics so that I could do my best. Thank you for doing that for the new stitchers and the ones that have been passionate about it for years. I look to you for educational videos. Thank you.
You are so welcome!
How lucky are we to have you share your great knowledge. Thank you!
My pleasure!
Hi Jean,
Your stitches are perfect, you are the master.
I wish my work was as beautiful as yours, I'm not going to stop stitching simply because my work is not perfect.
I love your video's, thank you for sharing your expertise.
I continue to improve.
Yes, you will!
Awesome demonstration of back stitching/stem stitching
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you, thank you, thank you! You are an amazing teacher and so kind to share your knowledge and talents so freely!
You are so welcome!
I use non-glare glass. The images look great and I do mat them.
So informative and well done! I feel fortunate to have found your channel! Thank you for sharing your love of stitching. ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you so much!
Thanks for sharing your experiences and your knowledge. Your tutorials are so clear that they are easy for me to follow. I enjoy learning everything about needlework from you.
You're very welcome!
I also just use two magnets back-to-back for my needle minders. When stitching in hand, I put the magnets on a bottom corner instead of the top so that it doesn't pull down on the top.
That's a great idea!
Very beautiful stem stitching 🧵 thanks for sharing it my friend 👍🌸💐🌸💐
Many many thanks
Thank you for answering my question last week. To be mentioned on Flosstube, I felt like a celebrity! I can’t get enough of your very informative episodes.
You are so welcome! I love all the questions coming my way ... thanks for being a part of episode #7!
I learned to cross stitch in the mid 80s - my back stitching never looked very good . Your tip about keeping the thread above or below the work is so helpful! I look forward to using it! Thanks for all your good advice.
Thanks for your kind words and thanks for watching!
I really enjoy your instructions and thorough research... thus guides me to make the best decision. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Jean! I love your tutorials. How I wish you were here in California so I can attend one of your classes.
You're a fabulous teacher! So happy that Sheila (Sunshine Stitchers) and Jan Hicks (Jan Hicks Creates) spoke of you in their video's. Thank you for the stitch tutorials, they've been so helpful. (My name is pronounced just Candy) :)
Thanks!
Great tips on backstitch and the stem stitch goes fast using the sewing method. Thanks for tips on framing too. I learned how to cross stitch in the 80’s and we always used DMC and the instructors really didn’t say anything about the right end of thread so this was interesting. Be safe and well. The games the boys played during our car rides were name the states, gave them each a blank piece of paper and off they went and always a game of “I spy with my little eyes” and it seems like it was yesterday but they had fun.
Car games were fun and educational, too. Nice memories!
Thank you for all your information...happy stitching ❣️
You are so welcome!
Always enjoy all you share. Thank you.
My pleasure!
As usual I learned a few things in your video.. 😊 Love watching you 💙
Awesome! Thank you!
Thank you, Jean. I learnt a lot today. 😊
Kim, I’m behind in my RUclips viewing so I am just seeing your new thread display. I love how Everett built on my suggestion and used the clear plastic. The added arm to drape the fabric on is a great addition. Smart man, you have a keeper there! Enjoy using it
I think maybe meant to post this on Sassy Jack's page?
Thank you for your videos. Very nice explanation of stitching.
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for all of the good advice! Love listening!💗
You are so welcome!
Another very informative and interesting video. I do look forward to them each Saturday. Using the overhead camera is a big help for understanding how to do the stitches. Thank you
Thanks for watching and thanks for cheering me on!
I just found your Channel, I love it. TY for the information you share. ❤️
Welcome!
I live in Central Illinois and I always went to Rock Home gardens cross stitch show, it was wonderful.
after attending the show always went to cross stitch shop in Tuscola sadly that has long since closed.
Another great video!
Thanks for sharing! I loved that shop!!
I also have this needle minder. It is great. Not too heavy and easy to use.
Good to know!
Loved hearing your Rockhome Gardens story, and it brought back fond memories of a trip I took with my Mom. We went on a 6 hour bus trip from our needlework store, The Stitching Post, in Kenosha, WI, to the show, and had a nice weekend there. It was a small bus 10 or 12 ladies. We also visited the Amish stores in the area. I hadn't thought of that in awhile. Sadly the store and my Mom are both gone now. I used to separate the DMC and use two strands together "going the right way", but now I learned the loop method and like that. Thanks you for your video, and the stem stitch/back stitch tutorial is most helpful.
It is so nice to hear from someone else who was there! I loved all the funky buildings and walls and "stuff" made from cement and bottles, broken crockery, etc. I need to search out some photos. Memories of loved ones and lovely times are so nice, aren't they?
Hi Jean. I always look forward to your tutorials and agree with the other commenter about needing more “teaching” on FlossTube. As a fairly new stitcher, I would love to watch how you add decorative buttons to a piece. Not regular button but rather enhancement buttons you would find at Just Another Button Co. Thanks so much for your contribution to the stitching community!
Thanks for the compliment! I don't have any projects that include buttons at the moment but I'll see what I can come up with. In general, I would choose a floss that blends with the button unless you want to add another element. Using a very easy example, if I were adding a heart button, I would choose a floss to match the heart. I don't think I have helped very much. ):
Jean Farish Needleworks That helps. Thank you.
I have always struggled with backstitch, but this gives me hope I can get better! I'll definitely try your technique next time. Thank you for sharing all your stitchy wisdom! ❤
I'm happy to know it helped!
I'm in my 60s and was taught to stitch by my great Aunts and grandmother. I've enjoyed your videos and have learned a few great tips. I'm always ready to learn a new technique or try a new genre of stitching, but there is one area that does intimidate me and somewhat stress me out. You've mentioned several times cleaning your pieces. This always makes me worried I'll ruin a piece. Could you talk about what you think is the best way to clean, what product or products you use, are there any fibers that should never be cleaned, etc in one of your future flosstube videos?
I have a long list of topics to cover and how to wash and iron cross stitch is on the list. I'll get to it, I promise!
Pet hair is another good reason for using glass on framed pieces. Thank you for the great information and tips! 🥰🤗🙏😷
You are so welcome!
Another wonderful and informative video. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I’m a self taught stitcher and I’ve had several “mind blown” and “a-ha” moments from the things you’ve taught us. Thank you again.
Glad it was helpful!
Love it. Purchased some Cosmo Floss and using it on a small project.
Hope you enjoy it!
I am inspired by your story! That was very exciting and memorable experience with your kids.
I love your design!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you for another great video. I learn something every time I watch. I especially enjoy seeing you demonstrate the different stitches.
Good to know. More to come!
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Good Morning, I sent an email on Thursday with a question. Would love to know your thoughts. Thank you.
Hi Jean, thank you for another informative video. I was going to ask the question about glass or no glass and then you started talking about it. I was also taught that thread went one way and once the threads were removed from the 6 strands, to put a loose loop at the end that is threaded into the needle. That way, I would know which end to thread with when I needed more strands. It is interesting how things can differ depending on how we are taught. I also have found that those wire threaders don’t last very long before the wire comes out. Finally, I like your idea of using a scissor fob to identify the needle threader. Until the next one, stay safe and well. Kind regards, Di 💕🇦🇺
When all is said and done, stitchers need to follow the procedures that make sense to them. I'm not going to fault someone who takes the steps needed to keep track of the "correct" end but I know it's not for me :)
I learn so much from your channel. Thank you so much 🌻💯
You are so welcome
Thank you for the wonderful information. I'm learning something new every time I watch.
You are so welcome!
Hi Jean, I enjoyed this video just like all your previous ones. I believe I heard or read that you do your own version of railroading. I hope that’s on your list of future video topics which I’m sure continues to grow. 😃 Happy stitching!
I do ... I need a cute name for it and plan to ask for suggestions. Maybe I can include it this weekend.
Thank you so much, Jean. I have wondered about which end is which in floss, more when embroidering than in cross stitch. I had read some blogs with diagrams and tried some samples, but I can’t tell the difference and don’t need something more to worry about. I’m glad you think that way, too. I love your abc pattern and fondly remember those car games, too. Thanks for your video.
You hit the nail on the head ... it just makes the whole thing complicated, doesn't it? Thanks for watching!
This has been a very interesting video. You are the first person I've listened to on Flosstube that pronounces "Aida" like the opera, not "Ada." Maybe it's because we are "children" of the 80s. :)
I've just started using Sulky 12 wt. fiber which would work fine for backstitching on 28 ct. linen or 14 ct. Aida. I do not like backstitching, but now I've seen your technique, I will look forward to it. I remember your charts and I know that I have stitched several of your patterns, though I have none left. I tend to give my work away to friends and family, though I do keep some projects for myself.
I use the loop method for stitching. One strand of DMC folded over, the cut ends in the needle, and I'm ready to stitch. I find that my stitches lay better with the loop method. Just my little quir
I have also learned now to tame metallic thread, but that might be an interest topic, especially closer to Christmas when we tend to use it more than at other times.
Take care, be safe, be well and I've subscribed so I look forward to next week's video. Going to go back and check the others out as well. Just noticed that my name is missing under my picture. I am Karen Brettschneider (shortened to Brett) from Woodstock, GA.
I plan to try the Sulky 12wt thread ... I've heard a lot about it. Thanks for watching!
Another great video full of terrific useful information and tips. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
So game changer on my back stitching!!! Thank you. 🌻😊🌻
You are so welcome!
Thank you for the suggestion of using flower thread for letter backstitching. Last night, I was working on a project that uses silk and the lettering was looking very bad. I have some flower thread and will see if there is a color that will match. So enjoy your Flosstubes!
Wonderful! I hope it works out for you. Thanks for watching!
Thank you again for a very informative video. I am learning so much .
You are very welcome. Thanks for watching!
I learned SO much from you today Jean! Thank you so much. ❤️. Joanne
You are so welcome!
Thank you for sharing your time in this way. I learn something with every video.
My pleasure! Thanks for watching!
Thank you Jean, for answering my question! Your advice will help my stitching a lot!
You are so welcome!
Thank you Jean for another informative video!
You are so welcome!
Thanks. Look forward to next week.☺
Thanks for watching!
Hi Jean, Thank you for sharing your stitching wisdom. In a former video you warned us against using walnut stain to age the look of our needlework. Many people advocate stuffing pin pillows and bicornus with crushed walnut shells. Could not this also be acidic and wear on our work from the inside out? I saw a video recently about antique quilts and the curator was saying polyester fiberfill will wear and tear your quilts from the inside. What would you suggest to stuff out precious needlework with? And what about the batting used in framing?? Thanks for your suggestions.😊
I don't recall mentioning walnut stain previously. And I don't have any wisdom to share about batting or stuffing so I am not doing very well at answering your questions. But you are giving me some good ideas to research :)
You mentioned "antiquity spray" which you said was very acidic and had for your linen an threads. I may have assumed it controversies as other people refer to it as walnut spray. Anyway... Liked you sat... More research.☺
🤗 Thank you Jean, enjoyed it!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Love your videos
Thank you!
I love your designs!
Glad you like them!
Another great video. Thanks
Glad you enjoyed it
I have never heard of flower thread....interesting. I have been using quite a bit of the Sulky #12 threads and find them really nice especially on 28 or 32. They are a little bulky for 36, but I have used them kind of depending on the project. Thanks for all your tips and advice. I am going to order spacers immediately as I tend to frame my own pieces and I am sure the glass is touching the stitching. Thanks for another informative and clever video.
Stitching with 12 wt Sulky is on my "things to try"list. I just need to get my hands on some!
Down Home ABCs is hanging in my family room!
Great video. I always wondered why my back stitch and stem stitched looked wonky. This will improve the looks of my pieces.
Glad it was helpful!
Another wonderful tutorial! You are answering so many questions and educating me on very specific topics that no one ever taught/shared years ago. For the most part, one was left to figure it out on their own. I am gaining so much confidence! I love the speciality stitches tutorials. I do have one question that is based on a previous episode; do you use any one specific conversion chart for DMC to Cosmos threads? There are several available from different shops and I have noticed some differences. I am anxious to try them. Again, thank you for sharing your knowledge and love of cross stitch!
I plan on talking about conversion charts tomorrow ... as you have already experienced, there are pro's and con's to them.
I'll be anxiously waiting for your ideas about conversions! Thank you for responding!
I so look forward to all the information you share. Do any of your daughters stitch? Also, have you written any books on stitching? Does Aida have a “right” side? One side seems flatter.
Both of my daughters have been stitching since age 6! I don't have any books published ... just my design charts. I don't think there's a right/wrong side to Aida.
Hi Jean, our farm is bordered on 2 sides with gravel roads. The dust coming into our home is quite substantial. I will have to put glass on my needlework. I wish I didn’t have to.
After I finished making the video, I thought about gravel roads and driveways and other environmental elements I should have thought about. In the long run, I think you'll be happier with the results.
Hi Jean, I would love a tutorial on stitching the long stitch, mine always seem to look wonky! Thanks again for your tutorials!
Let me see what I can do .... I need more hours in a day!
No hurry!! Just food for thought for future episodes :) I hear...need more stitching time.
I’ve been going to ask this very question about glass or no glass, thanks for addressing it.
Great minds think alike! :)
Thank you so much for your video and tips! I was wondering if you would have any advice on how to store cross stitch when you live in a humid environment. This came up in my mind when you talked about using glass as a way to deal with humidity. I am an American living in Hong Kong - and while there is indoor air conditioning, indoor humidity is quite high and we have problems with mold etc. Thank you!
I really don't have any advice for you. I think I would want to rely on information coming from an expert in your geographical area. Do you see embroidery in shops or in private homes? What a challenge!
Jean. Inreally enjoyed your video. There is so much to learn. Would you show us how you use the needle threader that you use? I have never seen that one. Also, how old are your daughters and do they stitch or do any needlearts? Look forward to next week.
Great suggestion!
My "girls" are women in their 40's now. Both stitch and have been doing so since the age of 6!
Just curious could we use Sulky 12 wt thread for flower thread. The reason I asked because its supposedly 2 times the size of a single thread of dmc floss?
Jean, I prefer the floss when it's matte rather than glossy for many projects. I'm a long time sewer, quilter, knitter but new to cross stitch. I've admired your work for years and Thomas Kinkade so I've decided to give it a go. Which companies make flosses that are more matte? Love knitting with rustic looking matte so I'm drawn to that look, rather than those slick shinny skeins.😝 Teri
When you say glossy, are you thinking of the rayon flosses used for Brazilian embroidery? Those are the ones with a high sheen. All the brands of cotton embroidery floss of which I am familiar have a light sheen to them. The over dyed flosses (which use floss manufactured by others as a base) are a little more muted. Flower thread is the only embroidery thread that I know of that is consistently matte.
I'm so excited to know this piece is your creation. I stitched this in the 80's and it is still hanging in my living room. My husband cut the mat and framed it for me and I still love it, but I didn't realize that I had stitched one of your pieces, I'm really honored to have stitched it. I entered it in the county fair and they criticized my work, because I did some traveling when I was stitching the words (I wouldn't do that now,) but at that time it was my first piece on linen and I didn't think about that showing through. I still love it. I so admire you and I'm just so happy I stitched it. Also happy to know the story behind it, by the way it is under glass. Thank you for making these videos, I'm still learning so much from you!
This piece is a challenge when it comes to avoiding traveling threads. I noticed quite a few when I started taking it apart after finishing the video. Thanks for watching!
I really enjoyed hearing the story behind Hometown ABC's. What a wonderful treasure for you and your daughters. Thank you for sharing your tips on Backstitching. I am pretty sure I have been doing it incorrectly. Is there a way to stitch letters/numbers on top of a fully filled area, such as a date? Example: I would like to put the date on a flower vase that has already been fully stitched. Thank you Jean! Stitch happy!
I'm glad you enjoyed the story. It is possible to back stitch over existing cross stitches ... it's done all the time. I did a LOT of it when stitching America Land That We Love. Look at the stitched "X" as if it is a square on the chart. I hope this helps ... if not, let me know and I'll see if I can find a better way to explain.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thank you Jean - I will try that.
Hi Jean. Thank you for another very helpful video. I always love
The segments where I can watch you stitch. Would you please instruct us on ironing our finished piece before framing? I would love to learn your ways of doing this properly. Thank you again for sharing your knowledge!
Talking about washing and ironing counted cross stitch are on my "to do" list ... the list is longer than the hours I have to work!
Jean Farish Needleworks, I feel like I need to start at Flosstube #1 and begin indexing your topics so I can refer to the correct video again in the future.
Cynthia Thompson Me too.
I always use glass, but it is museum glass. It protects the piece from fading, it is non glare and crystal clear with no reflection. It is on the expensive side, but worth it
That's my choice, too!
thanks for answering my question!!!
Thanks for being a part of my FlossTube!
Hi Jean, I agree with you regarding keeping needlework projects framed with a glass regardless if using a mat or not, but what is the result if no spacers are used and the glass touches your work?
I don't know what the long term effect would be (maybe nothing) but basically the glass will flatten the stitches. I should have mentioned it. I always think of a dozen things I should have said after the fact! :)
Can pearl cotton be used in place of flower thread? If yes; which weight? Thank you dear 🥰
They really are two very different types of thread. A number 12 pearl cotton is similar in weight to flower thread but I wouldn't consider one a substitute for the other. I'll have to add this topic to my list of things to talk about.
Hi. I am so happy to have found you in floss tube! I love the way you explain how to improve our stitching skills. I haven't stitched in 16 years and I don't think there were 'fancy flosses' when I stitched. Unfortunately, there is no LNS in my county. There is one in the next county over but I can't drive that far nor have anyone to drive me there. I am having all sorts of problems with converting special floss to DMC. I have no problems finding DMC here but some charts don't include a DMC conversion. I have a DMC Color Card but can't find conversion color cards for the other kinds. I have googled and found some conversion charts but they are not complete or non-existent. Do you know where I can find this (or anyone you know)? Thanks in advance for any assistance. Look forward to many more videos and finally go to one of your classes when that is possible again.
I think it's time for me to talk a bit about conversions ... it's a tricky topic but I'll see what I can do.
BTW, upon making a new x stitch friend about a month ago (at Finishing Touch in Louisville, KY!), she was looking for a specific Ginnie Thompson flower thread. I told her I had a collection (from the late 80’s?) and she gave me a snippet which I took home a upon consideration, determined I did NOT have the proper red she was looking for to finish a project her mother had started (?) years ago. When I got online, I found that you can, in fact, purchase direct from “flowerthread.com”! As a side note, I was only missing 4 threads to complete my collection, and I believe one of those was the red my new-found friend was looking for! PS. Ginnie Thompson flower thread is pretty inexpensive!
It is reasonably priced and a great quality thread!
How does flower thread differ from Sulky 14 WT?
Love your videos as I learn a lot from you which help improve my stitching. I have a question: do you do railroading to ensure your stitches lay flat? If not, what's your preferred technique? Thanks
Not exactly ... I use a different method to keep 2 strands parallel. If you watch Part 2 of the SAL videos, you'll see me do it at about the 14 minute mark.
Regarding glass v no glass: how were the samplers that are now being reproduced (E.g. from 17th century) kept in their day? Were they displayed, or kept stashed in a cabinet? If displayed, it probably wasn’t with glass because glass was expensive but they’ve made it to today, even if a bit worse for wear. I personally don’t frame my work, I keep it rolled up but I’ve always been amazed of how the antique samplers survived to today. There were no vacuum cleaners in those days, imagine the dust in those houses.
Who knows the percentage of surviving samplers compared to disintegrated samplers? Of those that survived intact, how many are in good shape? Yes, we see many fine examples in museums and private collections and are grateful for them.
Good point
Is there such a thing as acid-free foam core that is black? I can only find white, and I want to frame something on a dark blue dyed aida. Or should I just use a dark piece of backing fabric between my finished piece and the foam core, and pin them to the board together?
Good question! I can't say I have ever seen it. When I want to mount on something other than white, I add a cotton layer just as you described.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thank you very much!
I went to all those shows. Arcola Illinois. 1/2 way to my mom’s house.
They were fun!
Jean I love to listen to you and learn something new every episode. How do I get to your etsy shop
Thank you for watching! The etsy shop is www.etsy.com/shop/JeanFarish
Thank you
Hi Jean-I'm debating joining a floss club for NPI. Can you tell a big difference between silk and say DMC, for instance? Thank you for your professional opinion!
I don't have any experience with NPI ... I wish I did. I have not often stitched with silk. I go to Mary Corbet's blog for help and so I looked for an article she wrote for stitchers who are new to silk ... see if this helps ...
www.needlenthread.com/2017/03/silk-hand-embroidery-thread-spun-silk.html
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thanks, Jean! This was a good article. I think I'll try getting a few skeins and see if there's a big difference. I have always used DMC and have almost all the colors. It's pretty daunting to think about starting to collect a whole new brand, but might be fun to give it a try on a smaller piece.
We have a wood stove and so I always use glass plus all the dust in the air....
That's another good reason for glass. Thanks for sharing!
I have a request, please. It would be helpful to me if you could demonstrate the four sided stitch for alphabets. I’m addicted to your post. You are so generous. Thank you again.
I will try! My list of topics to cover is a long one and the 4-sided stitch is on it!
I’m a lot more patient in my old age!
I’ve been putting my work in a portfolio lately. I’m now 61 and am realizing my craft will probably end up at good will or the trash heap. I’m hoping by putting my projects in book form, it would be less cumbersome for my family/ancestors to hold onto. Shouldn’t bother me, but it does. Vanity? No. I spent my life on these charts.
I think this is something that concerns most stitchers "of a certain age" ... you're not alone!
I love the portfolio idea for smalls Cameron . Thank you for the idea!
How do you keep your threads from compressing when stitching in hand on linen.
Do you mean the threads in the linen fabric? If so, it just takes practice. I don't see it as any greater challenge to keep a good tension in hand than in a hoop or frame. It is possible to pull stitches too tightly when stitching fabric that is stretched tightly. If I have misinterpreted your question, let me know and I'll try again. :)
I never put glass on my pieces except if I am giving it away or if it's in my bathroom or in the kitchen. I have been stitching since 1975.
Since 1975 also (16 years old)
It's a personal choice and you are doing what you think is best which makes it best for you. Thanks for sharing.
The flour thread looks like Sulky thread and I love Sulky threads ♥️
I haven't played with the 12 wt Sulky ... I need to do that!
Jean, did you ever do a pbs program?
Way back in the 90's I hosted "Spirit of Cross Stitch with Jean Farish" which was shown on many public television stations across the country.
Jean Farish Needleworks I remember watching that! I kept thinking..where do I know this lady from? 😊
I think glass is best. A lot of time is put into the stitching, I just can’t help but think about setting them out exposed to dust, animal dander, etc makes it change color and look dirty.
I've come to that conclusion, too! Thanks for watching!
Good Morning Jean, This is just a comment on what i was taught.....I started Counted Thread Embroidery in the early 1970’s......belonged to EGA and took lessons from many great teachers, like yourself. Somewhere along the line, I was taught that when you pull your one or two floss threads out of the six strand section, if the thread clump fell limp and did not hang up (together), the thread(s) you were pulling out, are in the proper direction. If you were not sure, you could hold the thread up to your stitching light, run the thread between your two fingers and see if the little hair-like fibers sticking up or laying flat. If you “thread” the thread into your needle with the thread so that it draws through the fabric and does not draw up the fibers, it is a smoother pull and the fibers lay smoother. i have seen those little hair-like fibers sticking up. You are saying that the DMC company experts say there is no right or wrong way. I laugh here and say, yes, maybe that is my problem...my head exploded long ago! As I read back over this, I am sure it has. Thank you for your wonderful teachings.
Thanks for sharing your experiences ... over the years I think we old timers have "heard it all" :)
😊
Learnt so much from your videos, thank you for sharing your knowledge
My pleasure!
Sulky has a thread out that may be similar to flower thread. It is 12 wt. cotton thread on a 50 yd spool. One strand is equal to two strands of floss. Have you tried this brand yet? I like the coverage it gives on 28 linen.
I haven't tried it yet but plan to do so very soon!
I am very much enjoying your videos! I have been aware of your teaching reputation but have never thought that I would be able to attend a class. I feel like I'm finally able to learn from a wonderful teacher. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us. I especially appreciate your sharing your knowledge about framing. I was a framer for over 25 years and I cringe when I see works that have taken years to stitch with no protection. If stitchers could see what framers have seen over and over again, there wouldn't be an unglazed piece of needlework in sight! Again, thank you and I look forward to your next video.
Thanks so much for the kind words and thanks for watching!
(Do you live in the Blue Ridge?)
Jean Farish Needleworks I live very near the Blue Ridge about 30 miles south of Charlottesville, VA. I drive parallel to them back and forth to work each day and drive up into the mountains whenever I can find the time. Thanks so much for what you contribute to the cross stitch community!
I must have missed the flosstube with the America stitch winner named.
I posted the winner in the description last week: "The winner of last week's giveaway is Peggy Young! (Peggy, I added a reply to your winning comment with directions as to how to claim your prize.)"
Jean Farish Needleworks hoed I miss that? I’ve watched all of your videos? Well congratulations to Peggy, that was definitely a nice gift! I love your videos by the way, I like your honesty about things that really aren’t that important in the embroidery/stitching world and your tutorials are great.
Thank you again for your tutorial on stem and back stitches. Thank you for including the Aida fabric in the tutorial as this is helpful. Hope you received my email regarding DMC to Cosmo conversion. If not please let me know.
I did receive it and I thank you!
Can you show how to find the center of a cross stitch & where you need to start in a counted cross stitch. I’ve never done one that’s not printed.
I showed it in one of my earlier episodes but frankly I don't remember which one :)