Cross Stitch Guides & Tutorials

Learn pattern design from photo conversion to professional techniques. Practical guides written for real stitchers.

All Guides

Tutorial

How to Convert a Photo to a Cross Stitch Pattern

Choose the right photos, set optimal settings, and create patterns you'll actually want to stitch.

12 min
14 ct 1 inch
Guide

What is Aida Count? A Complete Guide to Cross Stitch Fabric

Learn what those fabric numbers mean and how to choose the right count for your skill level and project.

12 min
15-30 colors
Guide

How Many Colors Should a Cross Stitch Pattern Have?

Learn why 15-30 colors is the sweet spot for most patterns and how to avoid the dreaded confetti problem.

10 min
Before After 24 colors 9 colors
Tutorial

How to Reduce Colors in a Cross Stitch Pattern

Learn which colors to cut and which to keep. Simplify patterns without losing quality.

10 min
50% ~40 hours left
Guide

How Long Does Cross Stitch Take?

Learn the real math behind project timing. Calculate your speed and plan projects you'll actually finish.

15 min
78 FLOW Score Clean Confetti ! F 82 L 71 O 88 W 68
Guide

What is the FLOW Score?

Learn what makes a pattern actually stitchable. The FLOW Score measures fragmentation, locality, and more.

12 min
Confetti ! Clean Flow Confetti at 10%? +50% stitch time
Guide

What Is Confetti in Cross Stitch?

Learn why scattered single stitches ruin patterns and how to prevent them before you start stitching.

10 min
Guide

Best Photos for Cross Stitch: What Works (And What Doesn't)

The photo you choose matters more than the software. Learn which photos convert well and how to prepare them.

15 min
DMC VS ANCHOR DMC Anchor
Guide

DMC vs Anchor Thread: Which Should You Use?

Compare thread brands: color counts, regional availability, thread feel, and when mixing brands works.

15 min

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