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Hi all, I have been considering starting a HAED cross stitch and was wondering how difficult they are to do as I have never done one before, they look fantastic. Could anyone tell me what a tent stitch is please? I am thinging of purchasing 'along the garden path' ( i think thats what its called).

They are not difficult, just huge and take a long time to complete. Tent stitch is like half a cross stitch, a lot of people choose to do them instead of full crosses because it is quicker.

I love HAED but they do take a long time to complete. If you don't mind that then you should go for it!

I think I will as I love a challenge, which would you recommend gives the best effest tent stitch or normal cross stitch and how many strands would you use if doing tent stitch?

Thanks for all your help it is very useful to be able to ask other cross stitchers.

I do full cross stitch but it depends on your preference. I know a lot of other stitchers do tent stitch and are happy with their results. Perhaps you should have a practice to see which you prefer.

I do all my HAEDs in tent stitch with 2 strands of floss on 25 count fabric.

However, I would recommend you try out different stitches and strands on a scrap of the fabric you're going to use, to make sure you're happy with the coverage, which is what I and a lot of other HAED stitchers have done before taking the plunge on the actual design.

I tried out full crosses with 2 strands over 1
Full crosses with 1 strand over 1
Tent stitch with 2 strands over 1

For me personally, I found that full crosses in 2 strands was way too bulky and finished up looking untidy, but that's just me, others get on fine with it.

I found full crosses in 1 strand didn't give good enough coverage for me to be happy with it, but I was pleased with the way the tent stitch came out so I did that. It's down to personal choice so I would definitely have a practise and see which you like best.

Thank you all for your help, I have chosen the one I am going to do 'Catch me' and I have ordered chart. I am very excited about this project and I really love looking at everyone else's WIP and finished pictures one here.