The Right Tools to Get You Started

Whether you are just beginning to cross stitch or are looking to advance your skills, there are some basic supplies that you will need in order to do just about any cross stitch project.  If you have some basic cross-stitch on hand, it will make doing any project easier.  Also, many of these supplies can be used on a number of other crafts, so they are an investment in your overall crafting enjoyment.

Needles

There are a number of needles available on the market.  You will want to have at least one tapestry needle available, but often you will want to use a variety of needles.  You should have one cross-stitch needle that has a dull point.  Then you will also want a needle for those half-stitches, and a size 10 crewel needle is useful for this task.

Hoops/Frames

You can do your cross stitch without a hoop or frame.  Many people do, but with a hoop or frame you can get a better tension on your project.  Due to the tension from the hoop you can minimize the loose threads that often make a project look sloppy.  Also, it helps to minimize wrinkles and fraying of the fabric edges.

When you are getting started, you will most likely want to use a hoop.  They come in a variety of sizes (2 inches and up) and materials (plastic, wood, and metal) for each project.  Some people have found, though, that a frame will actually allow them to hold the whole design.  It also makes seeing back stitching and attaching notions easier.  Plus, a frame does not leave wrinkles in the fabric like a hoop can be prone to do. 

Scissors and Thread Snips

You will need, at some point, to cut your thread.  You can purchase embroidery scissors, although regular sewing shears work just as well for cutting floss and material.  However, thread snips can also be useful.  The thread snips allow you to cut very close to the fabric for finishing, so you gain more control.

Writing Materials

While you may not think having things like a pen, paper, highlighter, and pencil around are important, you may find that they become essential to your cross-stitch kit.  You may have already found in your cross-stitching that sometimes patterns need a little "tweaking" or there is a printing mistake.  Having some writing utensils around allows you to make notes on the pattern.  You can even write a note to the publisher so they can fix the error.  The highlighter also allows you to keep track of what you have already stitched.  Highlighting can be helpful for more complex patterns where colors are very close to one another.

Chart Markers

While the highlighter or store bought chart markers can be good to note where you are on your chart, you will also want to use something to mark your fabric.  Usually a straight pin is helpful to mark where you left off on your stitching.

Stitch Converter

A stitch converter is a nice tool that does all the calculations you need to determine how big a design will be with your chosen fabric.  They are helpful if you want to alter the type of fabric than what is called for on the pattern.

Tape Measure

A tape measure is an essential, as you need to be able to measure fabric for your project.  It allows you to figure out where to cut your fabric, and you should always add 2 to 3 inches of extra fabric around your design.  This extra fabric will allow you to frame or sew your design later.