Do you know how to make a cross stitch blanket?
Most people in the UK are interested in choosing the cross stitch as the form of stitch to use to design their clothes, blanket, and other personal items.
It is somehow unique because, as people say, it allows us to connect with ourselves, mind, and body and improve our mental well-being.
You can make your cross stitch blanket by purchasing one, picking the pattern you want, preparing your supplies, stitching, and securing.
Your blanket can be extraordinary with the touch of a cross-stitch!
Continue browsing this article as we mention how you can creatively make your cross stitch blanket in 6 special steps.
How To Make A Cross Stitch Blanket?
Step #1. Purchase a blanket
The first step in making a cross-stitch blanket is to purchase a blanket that suits your preference.
There are two options you could choose from. The first is having a large centre section with a border of squares surrounding it.
The other one is an afghan style divided squares with borders that appear in the entire blanket.
Step #2. Pick a pattern
You may pick a pattern available at craft stores or order online at websites that sell cross stitch supplies.
If you chose to have the afghan style blanket, you must select the pattern wisely because the number of squares required for the design matters.
However, if you chose the blanket with the main centre area, any pattern is applicable.
Step #3. Ready supplies
In this step, it is time to prepare the thread you are going to use. Other supplies you must provide are:
- Your cross stitch frame
- Scissors
- A needle
- Material to use as the backing of the blanket
Step #4. Stitching
It would be best if you secured the first section of the blanket inside your frame.
The purpose of your cross stitch frame is for you to keep the blanket from stitching on you as you perform stitching.
Follow your chosen pattern and see if there are required special stitches for the other patterns you purchased.
Step #5. Securing
You need to secure the back of your cross stitch blanket. You can either leave it exposed or can sew a backing onto it.
It would be best to ensure that all stitches are tied off and there is no loose thread anywhere.
Step #6. Finishing
To finish your cross stitch blanket, you must press any seams to remove the wrinkles. You may also spray your blanket with a fabric protector.
What Fabric Should I Choose For My Cross Stitch Blanket?
Aida cross-stitch fabric
An Aida cross-stitch fabric made of 100 per cent cotton is one of the most widely used fabrics used for cross-stitching.
It is a good choice, especially for beginners, because an Aida fabric has a wide, open weave that makes the holes easy to see.
It also comes in various colours and counts.
Evenweave cross stitch fabric
Evenweave cross stitch fabric is one of the most preferred fabrics for cross-stitching.
Evenweave is the preferable materials because an evenweave means even holes or squares for stitching.
All fibres have the same width that allows you to be stress-free in dealing with inconsistencies.
Linen cross-stitch fabric
A linen cross stitch fabric is famous for those experienced cross stitchers because of its soft hand and high thread count.
However, it tends to be more expensive than the previous fabrics mentioned.
Still, it is good in giving a durable and elegant outcome.
What Thread Should I Choose For My Cross Stitch Blanket?
Stranded cotton
If you are using a 14 count or 16 count Aida fabric, you can work with your cross stitch blanket using two-stranded cotton.
You can alter the texture of your finished piece with the type of thread too.
If you are working on Aida fabric, you may know how many strands are needed if you complete a few stitches and then look at it in the daylight.
Perlé cotton
A perlé cotton mainly used for Hardanger embroidery because of its non-divisible shiny cotton appearance.
Silk thread
A silk thread is more expensive than the previously mentioned threads. It mainly used when the sheen or fineness of silk is required.
Most large manufacturers and small specialist suppliers prefer these as they are available in various colours and types.
Metallic and blending threads
For metallic and blending threads, these come in all shapes and sizes.
It is available in a massive range of thicknesses and is usually combined with other threads to give a touch of shine or sparkle.
Wool yarns
Wool yarns are twisted pure wools used for canvas work embroidery.
Conclusion
Having a cross-stitch blanket can be memorable and enjoyable as you can express your creativeness while making it.
Now that you know how to make a cross stitch blanket, you can easily do it in 6 speacial steps!
Keep in mind that you must choose the suitable fabric with the correct thread and beautiful patterns that suit your taste to enjoy the benefits of your cross stitch blanket.