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I am new to cross stitching and tried to search the gallery for this and didn't find anything. If it has already been addressed, please let me know. I've only done a couple starter kits and now started a 5x7 pattern (every space in that area will be covered). I originally used the proper way to start a strand by leaving a tail stitched over it to secure it. I then started using the loop method which I find a lot faster and easier. However, I read somewhere it's not proper and since the threads aren't going the same direction it doesn't look as good. Can you really tell a difference or is this just being picky? I want to do it in a way it looks good but as fast as I can if that makes sense. If I need to not make short cuts I won't, I just wanted your opinions.

Hi Twinkie, welcome to the forum.

You probably couldn't access the galleries yet (you need a certain number of posts first). However, if you search the forum, especially the Tips & Tricks section, I'm pretty sure you'll find what you are looking for. If not, just ask!

I use the loop method unless I'm using variegated threads or an odd number of strands. It is so much easier and helps keep you back a lot neater.

So far, I haven't seen any issue with how the threads lay, but I also don't pay a whole lot of attention to the "proper" way to do things. Most of us on here agree that there aren't too many hard and fast rules to stitching, and that you should do what you think looks best and what you are comfortable with.

Someone else correct me if I'm wrong, but really the only "rule" I see most people adhering to is that all of the bottom (or top) legs of your cross must be going the same way.

Same here.
I loop start when I can. I haven't noticed a difference in the way the threads lay. I am currently working on a aida band hand towel. I loop start to keep the back neater, and so that I know my threads are secure.

I use the loop method. It really makes a difference on the back to me.
I use Aida 18 count and some of the fabric isn't woven as "tight" as other 18 count, I "prefer" the "tight", it really feels "soft" and "flimsy" to me, and I have to be careful when laying the 1st stitch, vertical, that it "doesn't" go to the above stitch.
On my website, http:www.crostitcherjean.com., I have posted 1/9 of my latest projects, unframed. Click on In Loving Memory Remembrance, then click on pic. to read the poem. In Dec. I will be posting the rest of the projects,then you will be able to "see" the difference in the fabric of the 18 ct.

HAPPY STITCHING IN STITCHING LAND.

I've read, too, that when using the loop method the stitches don't come out looking as nice as they do when doing it the 'proper' way. Having done it both ways, I can't see the difference. Now, having said all that, I'll offer that when I don't loop-start, the threads tend to lay better without coaxing, but I always use a laying tool, so even loop-starting, I get even, side-by-side threads. (Maybe that's why I can't see the difference.) I prefer to use the loop method whenever I can. I can't use it when blending threads or when using variegated thread. If both strands are the same color, it's loopsville for me. I tend to do large projects with a lot of color changes, and loop-starting the threads saves a lot of bulk on the backside that you'd have if you have to anchor a starting tail for each color. (Pinhead stitch helps with that, too.)
Read what you can and listen to advice you're given, but know that there are lots of ways to do this. As long as you're happy with what you make and you enjoy the process, that's the important points.

I can't imagine life without the loop method But seriously, I use it whenever I can.

I've just started using the loop method and am very happy with it. My stitches seem to look better and I'm having fewer knots to deal with.

Most important, though, is feeling good about your work. Whatever works best and looks best to you.

Thank you everybody! I thought this was such a simple craft until I started reading thousands of rules. I do want them to look ok after spending countless hours though so I wanted to do the rules that affect the appearance. I will continue the loop method, I like it. . The topic "confessions of a cross stitcher" made me feel much better haha.

twinkie253 wrote:Thank you everybody! I thought this was such a simple craft until I started reading thousands of rules.

I think the most important rule is to make sure your stitching is always a joy to do and a joy to see when it is done.

I read or saw somewhere that DMC themselves say their threads do not have a nap and therefore it doesn't matter which end you thread or if you use the loop method. That's good enough for me!

As for rules, the only cross stitch "rule" I'm aware of is that the top legs of the stitches should all go the same way, otherwise it will look untidy. Everything else is down to personal preference.

If you are still worried about neatness you can also use the railroading technique in conjunction with the loop start method which will help the stitches to lie flat. Here is a link explaining how it works. http://www.crossstitchforum.com/viewtop ... ng#p565104" target="_blank

fccs wrote: I think the most important rule is to make sure your stitching is always a joy to do and a joy to see when it is done.

I totally agree!
I used both methods and seriously cannot see any difference in how my stitches lay.
welcome to the forum

Have used the loop method since joining this forum and love it .I have never had any problem with it. You will learn alot here.

fccs wrote: I think the most important rule is to make sure your stitching is always a joy to do and a joy to see when it is done.

Absolutely as far as I'm concerned. I view everything else as thousands of suggestions. Use the ones you like and that make sense to you and keep your stitching fun.

Carole

Sorry if this is a silly question but I just wondered why the loop method wouldn't be ok to use if you have variegated thread?

Because then the color changes are all jumbled.
One side of the thread would go A to B. The other would go B to A.

Of course, you certainly can do it if you want. Its fun to experiment and see what you get. But you would not get the same look as if you had 2 threads running in the same direction.