Normally, you work cross-stitch on the weave of the fabric neatly in rows along the lines of the thread. Each stitch is supposed to sit in the group, without calling attention to itself. Generally, you work cross-stitch with an even tension and uniform size, with each bar crossing in the same direction. However, cross stitch has a wild cousin, since Freeform cross stitch is loose, informal, breaking the rules with an anything goes approach to life.
Freeform cross stitch is a quick, easy stitch to work. You cannot go wrong. Simply work the stitch as a cross stitch, but freeform. You can let your needle wander where you choose and work Freeform cross stitch close together or sprinkle them across an area to create a sparse fill.
To add variety to this stitch, use different coloured threads. Or you can use threads with different thickness, different texture, and different fibers. You can use novelty threads too! If you are in the mood for bling, use a metallic thread and sprinkle beads in among the stitches to add more life. Free-form cross-stitch is not only fun but can deliver a contemporary twist to your work.
Freeform cross-stitch can also add energy to a piece. In this fabric postcard “Dueling Fiddlers,” I added freeform cross-stitch in the background to give a sense of the music. If you want to read more about this piece, you can here.
To sketch and ‘draw’ with your thread, you can combine freeform cross stitch with straight stitches and re-create the marks you might make with a pencil.
Floral-themed Stitchers templates for hand embroiderers
With this set of stitchers templates, you can create your own floral-themed designs. You can easily combine petal and leaf shapes with the curved edges of the templates to create all sorts of floral and organic motifs. You will be able to create hundreds of different patterns to embroider. It is the ultimate mix-and-match fun for stitchers.
The set comes with an e-book with instructions and is filled with patterns and designs that you can create and use as jumping-off spots for your own designs.
They are available now in the shop here
Enjoy your stitching!
I wonder if this stitch would work for clouds.
Meg if you used a fine thread and small stitches I think it would. The trick would be to keep it feeling light.
I am happy you have let the Cross Stitch loose! There is too much stigma about it having to be perfect.
I really love the random cross stitch effect! Really expressive- is that a word really?
Lovely work. Thank you so much for sharing.
Nicky Black
I worked cross stitch for so long that people said the back of mine looked as good as the front. But as much as I love the grid (and if you remember my TAST work, you know I do), I tired of doing the same stitch on it. THIS version, yes, I could really enjoy freeform cross stitch!