Ellen Frost

Have you ever found yourself avoiding certain cross stitch projects because you think they're too big and complex, and you'll struggle to cope? Well, avoid no more. Handling a large cross stitch project is easier than you might think; let me show you.

1. Collect everything before you begin.
Regardless of the size of your project, you should buy all the necessary supplies before you begin. You don't want to be partway through a project and discover that you've run out of a certain color thread.

So before you begin stitching, make a complete list of the supplies you'll need and buy everything at one time. Then, since the project is large and will take a little while to complete, store your supplies in a zippered plastic bag or plastic box to prevent them from getting dirty or dusty.

2. Consider using gridding.
When approaching a large cross stitch project, many stitchers like to use a technique called gridding. When you grid, you use basting to create an actual grid on the fabric you're going to use for the project.

How does gridding help? When you're working on a large project, it's easy to lose your place. Gridding makes it simple for you to see where you are at any time. The grid you baste onto your fabric resembles the one you see on the cross stitch pattern. Gridding helps you keep track of where you are in the pattern.

For this reason, many stitchers like to use gridding as a way to avoid mistakes when working on a large project. The only real downside to gridding is it takes time to baste the grid onto your fabric. But for many stitchers, the effort is well worth the time because the grid prevents costly mistakes.

3. Consider using a frame.
You never want to put a hoop over areas you've already stitched. The thread can break or fray. For that reason, when it comes to working on a large cross stitch project, you may want to consider using a frame.

A frame will allow you to have the entire area of the project displayed at one time. If, however, you don't want to invest in a frame, then consider either buying a hoop large enough to contain the whole pattern or stitching without a hoop.

Many stitchers like to hold their work in their hand while they stitch. One downside to this approach is that you're touching the fabric more so it may get dirty. You may want to consider wearing gloves to keep the fabric clean. Also, you may need to practice stitching this way before you undertake a large project. You'll want to ensure that you can keep the tension on your stitches even when you hold the fabric in one hand.

4. Make a copy of your pattern.
If your pattern is from a book or magazine, make a copy of it. Then you can keep track of your progress by marking out the squares on the copy as you create each stitch.

Not only will this copy enable you to see what you've completed, it also will give you a sense of accomplishment. You'll quickly realize that you are, in fact, making progress.

5. Break the work up into smaller segments.
Don't look at the pattern as a whole. You may get discouraged. Instead, break it into smaller segments. For instance, work on one quarter of the design at a time. When you finish that section, move on to the next one.

If you jump around doing different parts of the pattern, you may get discouraged because you'll feel like you're not getting anywhere.

6. Realize it will take time.
The old saying is that Rome wasn't built in a day. By the same token, large cross stitch projects aren't stitched in a day. When you start a large project, realize it will take you time to finish it.

So be patient. Don't rush yourself. Instead, enjoy the process. Take your time and have fun. This isn't a race.

Focus on how you'll feel when you finish. You'll have created something beautiful, a true keepsake that you and your family will cherish for many years to come.