First time using linen

[oiralinde]

I have only ever cross-stitched on Aida (14 count). I want to make a Christmas ornament using linen and I am scared! My mother-in-law (who taught me how to cross-stitch) has never done work on linen and told me not to even try it, lol. I want to try it, but I'm not sure. Any tips/pointer? I know you typically stitch over two, right? Does that make it harder to count?

[Ellentje]

I actually pretty much always use linen, since I think it looks nicer in case there is an empty background. It's not that different from stitching on Aida, you just have to pay more attention so that you always go over two threads. Making a stitch over just one thread by accident will mean the other stitches don't line up, and you can't just change that one stitch since everything you did with the same thread will be wrong as well. So just pay attention. My experience is that I hardly ever make this mistake and if I do I see it pretty fast since the stitches won't match.
When counting I always use the tip of my needle to sort of feel the threads, which makes it easier to count.

Hope that helps. I say just give it a try and see how you like it.

[susanne]

I agree with Ellentje. I just did my first cross stitch on linen and it worked out great It is true that you have to pay attention at first, but you'll develop a feeling as to how big the crosses are supposed to be. And it is true, a linen background looks great!
Good luck and have fun stitching

[Brodeuse]

Some people also have trouble seeing the threads. Just use a magnifying glass if you have this problem, and stitch in a well lighted room.
Good luck.

[riotpatch]

I just started my first stitch on evenweave which is similar to linen and I like using it much more than aida.
I don't know if I'll be able to go back. =]