Cross stitch in rugs

In cross stitch embroidery there are two distinct methods of dealing with the stitch: (a) where a line of single sloping stitches is worked and then crossed by a similar line done in the reverse direction and where each cross is completed before the next is made. This second method results in rather a firmer stitch and, generally speaking, covers the foundation material more efficiently than does method .

As this matter of the complete covering of the canvas cannot be over­emphasised (it is so obviously one of the most important points in rug making) it is the counsel of perfection to employ method wherever possible.

Completing each stitch singly is, however, a tedious process where large expanses of one colour are to be worked, and in such cases method can be used. If there is any doubt about the canvas being sufficiently covered it is a wise plan to lay a single length of wool over a double weft, bar from left to right and then work the cross stitches over this in two stages according to method.

This is one of the cases where personal initiative must take the place of hard and fast rules, bearing in mind that no vestige of canvas foundation must be visible.