FABRIC: Most cross-stitch is done on a special material called aida cloth. This woven fabric has tiny holes marking off the corners of each stitch. Therefore, it's very easy to determine where to make your stitches! 

Aida cloth comes in sizes referred to as 'count'. For example, an 11 count aida cloth has 11 stitches to the inch. Other common sizes are 14 count (14 stitches to the inch (2.5 cm)) and 18 count (18 stitches to the inch). As you can tell, the higher the count, the smaller the stitches. I recommend beginners try nothing smaller than 14 count.

EMBROIDERY HOOP: Don't use too big a hoop as it will get very heavy when you hold it for any length of time. I recommend a 4"-5" (10 cm-13 cm) hoop. The smaller inner hoop goes on the back side of the aida cloth, and the larger hoop with the screw goes on the front side.

Loosen the screw before placing it on the fabric. Be especially careful when putting a hoop on previously stitched areas. Always loosen the screw before removing it from your fabric. Always remove it when you are finished stitching for the day (to prevent dirty marks).

NEEDLE: For beginners, a #22, blunt tip safety needle is recommended. Most kits include a needle.

PATTERN: Be sure the pattern you select isn't too large or advanced for your stitching level. Each pattern will give a list of embroidery floss required (usually in two different brands, i.e. DMC and Anchor). It will also list the finished sizes for different stitch sizes (see FABRIC). Read your pattern carefully and be sure you understand any special instructions.

EMBROIDERY FLOSS: Also called thread, the embroidery floss comes in packages called skeins. There are 6 strands of floss twisted together in each skein.

• Cut 18" (45 cm) lengths to stitch with, separating the number of strands indicated on your pattern (usually 2 or 3).
  A notation such as 2X or 3X means 2 strands or 3 strands of floss.
  Backstitching (outlining) is usually done with 1 strand of floss (1X).
• Separate each strand individually, then put together the specific number indicated on the pattern. This will give you fuller, thicker looking stitches.