Apple Cross Designs - Stitching Guides and Tips

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A Guide to Stitches

Download a guide to common needlework stitches here.

The guide is provided in Adobe PDF so you will need to have Adobe Reader installed on your computer. Adobe Reader is a free program. You can download it here http://www.adobe.com/products/reader/ or click on the graphic below.

Caring for your Needlework

Hand wash your needlework in lukewarm water with mild dishwashing liquid - not a cleaner intended for fine washables or woolens.
Do not bleach or dry clean.
Dry flat.
To press, place face down on a towel and use a dry iron set at medium. Press lightly so you don't flatten your stitches.
If thread bleeds, soak in lukewarm water. Change the water every two hours until stain disappears.

Framing your Needlework

1.		The finished size is listed on the package lable. Measure your stitched design to check the actual size before you buy a frame.
2.		You will need a piece of corrugated cardboard cut 1/4" samller than the inside dimensions of the frame. Center your design on the board. Pin the gabric to the edges of the board to temporarily hold it. Pull the fabric taut as you pin.
3.		Fold the fabric to the back of the board, making mitered corners.
4.		Hand stitch the folds together, using heavy thread.
5.		To hold the fabric in place either glue or tape the fabric to the back of the board. Another option is to use long pieces of heavy thread and lace opposing edges together. Remove the pins when finished.
6.		Insert the mounted design in the frame. Secure it with brads, staples or glazier points. Make sure the the inside of the glass is clean before inserting the design.
7.		If you wish to frame your design with a mat or in a larger frame, you can sew additional strips of lightweight fabric to the appropriate sides of your design.