Size 24 Cross Stitch Needles(6)

Product Information

The size of the needle you use depends on the fabric you are stitching on. In general, the larger the holes in the fabric (that is, the lower the fabric count), the larger the needle.

These sizes are suggestions. Different bands have variations in their diameter and length of a needle, but as a rule of thumb a size 24 Tapestry holds up to 6 strands of embroidery floss and will fit in the size 14 count Aida. (The size 24 Tapestry is the most popular size needle for cross stitch.) Cross stitch patterns will show a grid with each square of the grid representing a single stitch you will make in your aida. Every cross stitch pattern will have a key to explain the colours and symbols used on the cross stitch chart. Take some time to get to know your pattern - it will make stitching even easier!The triangular markers at the side of the grid mark the half way points on the chart. It’s usually best to start a cross stitch design in the middle of the fabric to ensure that you don’t run out of space for stitches. Continue in this way, making halfcross stitches along the row. Don’t pull the thread too tight as you stitch. If your thread starts to twist as you work (this will definitely happen!) just let go of the needle – it will untangle itself. Most embroidery thread (or floss as it’s also known as) comes in six strands. You’ll need to separate the strands. Firstly, select the colour that you’re going to use. Cut no more than 50cm of thread. If you try to work with a longer piece of thread, you may find that it gets knotted and tangled. Select a single thread from the bunch by pinching near the end of the thread and gently pulling out one single strand, or two if you’ll be working with two strands. Now thread the needle in the same way that you would an ordinary sewing needle. You don’t need to make a knot in the end of the thread. The image on the chart is not printed to scale. The bold grid lines on the chart separate the printed pattern into 10 x 10 squares to help you count. The larger the needle size: the smaller the actual size of the needle will be. (So a size 24 Tapestry needle is smaller than the size 22 and the 24 Tapestry is larger than a size 26.)

The majority of cross stitch designs are stitched with stranded embroidery thread. These threads are made up of six strands and can be separated according to the design you’re working on. You might find it easier to work with a hoop in place as you stitch; this is up to you. The hoop stretches the Aida fabric which might make it easier for you to see the holes. To attach a hoop, loosen the screw and separate the two pieces. Place the hoop without the screw flat on a table or work surface. Lay the Aida over the hoop making sure the centre of the fabric is in the centre of the hoop. Place the other hoop with the screw over the fabric and press it down so the fabric is sandwiched between the two hoops. Gently pull the fabric taut as you tighten the screw on the hoop. Be careful not to over stretch the Aida as you might distort the weave of the fabric. The large eye of a tapestry needle accommodates cotton embroidery floss, pearl cotton, and other specialty fibers you might want to stitch with. The large eye also helps keep the thread from rubbing against the fabric as you stitch, which reduces wear.In the video, I say these needles are available through an Etsy shop. That shop owner is now working with Sullivan’s, and the needles are now available through them.