Cross-stitch is a form of embroidery that can be used to personalize any fabric you can imagine, from clothing to tablecloths, bags, pouches, and more. However, for a long time, I wondered how to embroider cross-stitch directly onto fabric without using a special cross-stitch fabric. Recently, I discovered how to do it, and today I'll explain step by step how you can create your next designs directly on fabric or any other material you choose.
Embroidering cross-stitch onto fabric using soluble cross-stitch fabric:
Can cross-stitch be embroidered directly on clothing? Yes, it can! Although I had seen many cross-stitch designs on garments that did not use Aida or evenweave fabric, I didn't know how to achieve this without having to guess the placement of the stitches. Besides, cross stitch fabrics are not always the finest or most visually appealing. While they serve the purpose of guiding us in creating the crosses, we can achieve a finer finish by embroidering the design on different types of fabric, especially when working on tablecloths, napkins, clothing, or other accessories.
Of course, nowadays there are tools to accomplish just about anything, and this case is no exception. The key to embroidering cross-stitch on other fabrics lies in a special template made for this purpose. This template is sometimes called soluble cross-stitch fabric, and it consists of a very thin fabric with hole points arranged in a grid pattern. You can embroider on this fabric just as you would on any other grid fabric. The crucial difference is that this fabric is soluble and will disintegrate when you wash the garment, leaving only your embroidery on the original fabric. It's like magic!
This soluble fabric is also used for other embroidery techniques. The only difference is that soluble cross-stitch fabric includes a grid pattern to guide your cross-stitches. This ensures that all your stitches are uniform and consistent, resulting in a perfect cross-stitch design.
Tutorial: How to embroider cross-stitch on clothing or fabric of your choice
Materials needed:
- Cross-stitch pattern: Get a design you want to embroider by purchasing or downloading a pattern.
- Fabric of your choice: It can be clothing (a t-shirt, cap, hoodie), a tablecloth, a fabric bag... Whatever you prefer!
- Embroidery floss: Get the colors indicated in your cross-stitch pattern. You can also customize them.
- Embroidery needle: Embroidery and cross stitch needles have a rounded tip, unlike regular needles.
- Soluble cross-stitch fabric: This is the tool that will allow you to cross stitch on other fabrics that do not have a grid.
- Scissors: For cutting threads or excess soluble fabric.
- Embroidery hoop: Not mandatory, but an embroidery hoop will help tighten the fabric and make your work easier.
Step-by-Step Guide to Embroidering Cross-Stitch on Clothing:
- Choose your design: The first step is to select a cross-stitch pattern that you like. You can find plenty of cross stitch patterns at The Fresh Cross Stitch, or you can check specialized books or magazines. Additionally, The Fresh Cross Stitch also offers free cross-stitch patterns for you to practice without having to purchase one. Make sure to choose a design that fits the size and shape of the garment you're going to decorate.
- Prepare the garment: Before starting the embroidery, it's essential to prepare the garment properly. Wash and dry the garment to remove any dirt or residue. If necessary, iron the garment to make it smooth and ready for work.
- Place the soluble fabric on the embroidery area: Lay the soluble fabric over the area of the garment where you want to add the design. Secure it in place so that it doesn't shift while you're embroidering, for example, using safety pins or following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Prepare the threads: Cut a piece of embroidery floss approximately 45 cm long (about from your hand to your elbow). Separate the floss into two strands since cross-stitch is generally done with two strands. If necessary, use a needle threader to pass the thread through the eye of the needle.
- Start embroidering: Hold the fabric firmly (you can use the hoop for assistance) and begin embroidering following the chosen pattern. Use the embroidery floss to create "X" stitches on the fabric, following the design. Ensure that the stitches are tight but not overly tight to avoid distorting the fabric.
- Wash the garment with care: Before wearing your embroidered garment, wash it according to the fabric manufacturer's instructions and the instructions for the soluble fabric. Typically, soluble fabrics dissolve at 40ºC (104ºF).
- Enjoy your personalized garment: Once your garment is clean and dry, it's ready to be proudly worn. Cross-stitching on clothing adds a unique and personalized touch, transforming an ordinary garment into a special and exclusive fashion piece.
If you enjoy experimenting, don't limit yourself to traditional cross-stitch designs. You can create your own patterns or combine different embroidery techniques to achieve unique and creative results.
Cross-stitching on clothing is a wonderful way to add a personal touch to a variety of textiles. We're not just talking about clothes; you can also embroider accessories like fabric bags, sneakers, keychains, hair accessories, and much more. With practice and patience, you'll be able to create beautiful and unique designs on your favorite garments. Don't hesitate to unleash your creativity and enjoy the art of cross stitch on your clothing too!
