Counted Cross Stitch
Guidelines

The following are for providing learning experiences in counted cross stitch.

GENERAL SUGGESTIONS FOR ALL MEMBERS

Learn needlecraft skills of counted cross stitching for lifetime leisure and vocational pursuits.
Learn proper stitching techniques and centering on fabric.
Learn how to select materials, floss, needles, fabric equipment and kits.
Learn how to combine colors for harmony or contrast.
Encourage creativity and original work by experienced members.
Pictures should be either framed or stretched, edges finished and have backing.
Judging will not be on the frame or framing technique, but on the project only.
Projects must be neat and clean.
Learn to make useful and decorative counted cross stitch articles.
Designs on clothing acceptable for experienced members.

EXPERIENCE SUGGESTIONS FOR COUNTED CROSS STITCH WHERE APPLICABLE

These suggestions may be modified according to the member's age and experience.   For instance, a first year member who is 16 may want to try something more challenging than a beginning project member who is 9.

BEGINNERS - Usually 1st and 2nd year in the project:

Learn how to do the cross-stitch, back stitch, half stitch, half cross, and outline.  (All these stitches do not have to be included in the project exhibited at the Fair.) Any pictures should be either framed or stretched, edges finished, include backing. Be ready to display.

Will not be judged on frame or framing technique, but on project only (unless it detracts from overall appearance).

Exhibit should have neat appearance - no threads or knots showing, pressed, clean, etc.  Begin with a simple project.  Examples - set of coasters, Christmas ornaments, one item picture, kits acceptable.  Use 11 or 14 Aida cloth.  Nine and ten year olds use herta cloth.

Further knowledge each year by adding shading, more colors, larger project.

INTERMEDIATE - Usually 3rd and 4th year in the project:

The above suggestions apply, plus the following:
Original designs encouraged (Judges look for this)
Designs on clothing acceptable.
Complete more complicated projects each year.

Examples: Multi item pictures, pillow tops, monogram on sweatshirt, sweaters or towels.   Use 14, 18 or 22 Aida cloth.

ADVANCED - Usually 5th year and over in the project.

The above Beginner and Intermediate suggestions apply, plus the following:
Original design strongly encouraged (Judges expect this)
Product should be completely finished (pillows zippered, edges finished, etc.)
Designs on clothing acceptable.
Try to hide knots. Try new fabrics, other materials, Christmas tree skirts, table cloths.
Complete more detailed, more complicated project each year.
Learn new needlecraft skills, stitches or techniques each year.

Examples: Large pictures with a lot of detail and colors, tablecloth and napkins, more detailed clothing, aprons, skirt bottoms, collars, blouse sleeves, bedspreads, multi-item pictures with more colors and shading.  Use 18 or 22 aida cloth preferred (14 acceptable).

Adapted from Eaton County by:
J. Miller and J. Lyon