Help with 18ct linen project

[KitKat77]

Hello. I am quite new to cross-stitch and could use some help with a new project. This is my first time stitching on linen and it is 18ct. The pattern says to stitch over 2 threads (I understand that part) with 1 strand of floss. Now this confused me at first since someone else told me I'd probably want to use three strands of floss. Anyway, I opened up the packets of thread which came with the kit, and they are much fatter than the DMC or Sullivan skeins I am used to. In fact, they don't separate into 6 strands at all, but only 2 if I really wanted it to. It doesn't fit into my needle at all.

So..... am I supposed to separate into two strands? Do I just need to buy a bigger needle?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

Kathleen

[Rose]

This does not sound like it is embroidery floss. It sounds as if it is a wool thread. Double check what thread the kits says that it contains.

[MaggieM1750]

Photos would help.
Of both fabric and thread they gave you.
Or the name of the project you are working on.

I might use 3 strands of floss on 14 ct aida (which is very common in kits) but not on 18ct. If using regular DMC, on 18 ct aida, I would probably only use 1 strand of floss.

Oh, and welcome to the forum.

[KitKat77]

Thank you both for responding! I went to Michael's and compared my floss, it seems like the kit came with Pearl Cotton. I found bigger needles and have tried stitching. It's VERY different from the Aida I am used to, but I think it is working. The project is "The Ark Mantle" from Bent Creek. I have pics, don't know if you can see very well, that show the instructions (such as they are) that came with it, and pics of my starting, it's a monkey. The instructions did not say what kind of floss/thread.

Ok, I can't figure out how to attach pics......

Kathleen

[karen4bells]

Kathleen, if you read this topic, it should help you with attaching pictures to your post

http://crossstitchforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=1027

I looked up the design online and I think you should be able to just use the dmc perle as it is, without separating it, and just use one strand of it that way

[MaggieM1750]

Yes. The very basic online description says that it is pearl cotton.
Those you use as is. No separating the strands. And just use one.

For most pearle cottons, I use a size 24 needle.
Cute project. Make sure to post photos of you progress.
We like piccies


http://store.stoneycreek.com/bent-creek ... hread=True" target="_blank

[Serinde]

Pearl cotton is so easy to use, provided you let your needle dangle in order to restore the natural twist of the fibre. You might need to do this a little bit more often than you would with floss. Pearl cottons catch the light beautifully, and your coverage will be excellent. Hope you set up a SAL thread, so we can all cheer you along.