Stitching tension

[bolshiegirl]

Hi Everyone

Another daft question!
How DO you get that lovely regular, even look to finished cross-stitch pieces?
I assume it's partly to do with stitching tension and partly to do with lots of practice! I feel like my stitching never achieves that 'perfect' look. Any tips or tricks from more experienced stitchers? I tend to cross my stitches as I go, simply because it helps me maintain an even tension - do you think my stitching would look more even if I stitched one way then came back the other?

Thanks for any suggestions

[RosemaryH]

In order to find out which method suits you the best why not take a scrap of fabric and try different methods. I tend to do whatever fits with what I am stitching at the time. Practice is indeed the way in which your stitching becomes more even so enjoy all the practice that you can.

Rosemary

[Rose]

I stitch both ways it just depends on what the pattern calls for. Do you use a hoop/frame or do you stitch in hand. Maybe that could be part of the problem????? Not sure but practice is always the best solution and don't be to critical. Also washing a finished project with help the stitches settle into a more even tension.

[Mabel Figworthy]

Have you tried railroading? When you stitch with 2 strands (or more), try to pass your needle in between the strands when you insert the needle into the fabric -- it helps the stitches to lie flat. Also I find that my tension is more even when I use a hoop or frame.

[mags]

I am not sure that mine is all that perfect and I think we are more critical of our own work than others'. I find frames too painful to hold so I stitch in hand and don't pull too tight.

[coffee_freak]

i use a qsnap and keep my fabric tight..i also have read that tension varies from day