How to Cross Stitch with Hand Dyed Floss

Should you browse pictures of finished cross stitch patterns about the web, no doubt you have seen the stunning images of projects stitched with hand dyed floss. Because from the variety within the coloring from the floss, this can cross stitch projects some incredible and unexpected outcomes.

Hand dyed floss is produced just as the name implies – it’s dyed by hand.  Because of this, there are variations in the quantity of color throughout the thread. Some variations may be subtle, while some may be a large contrast.  Some also have a lot more than 1 color per thread, which with the right cross stitch patterns, will create incredible outcomes.

When stitching with these beautiful hand dyed cross stitch fibers, there’s an essential note that should be produced. Many stitchers typically will make all of their stitches going 1 way at one time, after which return to finish their crosses.  With hand dyed thread, stitching in this manner will give an effect that seems ‘muddied’.  Much much more desirable final results may be achieved by finishing every“X” as you go.  Stitch both legs at once and then move onto the next“X”.  This helps keep the range in the shade of thread all within the same stitch.

There’s one more note that ought to be made about stitching with hand dyed threads.  Many stitchers use a “loop” technique to lessen the amount of excess thread about the back.  This must not be done when stitching with hand dyed threads.  The reason is simply because when the thread is folded over to make the loop, various parts of the colour variance will be next to each and every other.  This will similarly generate a mixing from the colors in an undesirable way.

A single final note about hand dyed floss is the colorfastness.  Most hand dyed threads aren’t colorfast, so it is not recommended to wash your stitching project when you’re completed stitching.  The result will probably be that the color from the floss will bleed onto your fabric and other floss and your stitching task could be ruined.

By following these three suggestions, you too can enjoy stitching with these stunning hand dyed cross stitch fibers.  They truly can add additional pizzazz to your stitching task.