Embroidery Hoops, Aida and Thread Explained
Once you've finished a kit or two, you'll want to choose your own patterns and supplies. Here's a quick guide to what's what.
Embroidery hoops
A hoop is two rings that clamp your fabric tight, so stitches stay even. Choose one a little bigger than the area you're working on, or move it around for big designs. Wooden hoops are classic, while plastic hoops grip well and are easy to clean. Hoops also make a lovely ready-made frame to display finished pieces.
Aida fabric and counts
Aida is woven into a grid for cross stitch. The count is the number of squares per inch:
- 11ct: large squares, very easy to see; good for children and beginners.
- 14ct: the most popular count for most patterns.
- 16ct and 18ct: smaller stitches for finer, more detailed designs.
The higher the count, the smaller your finished design will be from the same chart.
Thread (floss)
Stranded cotton thread comes in six strands. As a rule of thumb, use two strands on 14ct aida, and one or two on 18ct. Pearl cotton and metallic threads add texture and sparkle to embroidery.
Needles
Cross stitch uses blunt tapestry needles that slip between the fabric's holes. Freestyle embroidery on plain fabric uses sharp embroidery needles.
Keeping things tidy
A floss organiser with bobbins, or a storage box with compartments, saves hours of untangling and keeps your colours labelled.
New to stitching? Start with our beginner's guide to cross stitch, and shop hoops, fabric and thread in cross stitch accessories.
