stitching tips???

[Sakuradrops915]

Okay, I am entirely self taught at the art of cross-stitching so I know none of the cool insider tricks to speedy stitches.... Is there another way to do a large block of color without having to shift your hand from on top of the fabric to below the fabric??? Any tips would be greatly appreciated. My arm is tired :,( how pathetic is that

[Servotron]

You could buy a stand to hold your stitching so you can keep one hand above and one below. It takes a bit of practise to get used to using your other hand. You can also buy double-ended needles that have the eye in the centre of the neddle so you don't need to keep turning the needle round.

[Sakuradrops915]

I never thought of that!!! Thanks, I think I will give those a shot!!!

[julie]

I've recently come across this method http://www.better-cross-stitch-patterns ... ethod.html. I've tried it recently to see if it would speed up my stitching, but I felt like my tension was all wonky while working this way. Maybe I'll need to give it another shot and practice some more. I think this method would benefit speed by a lot if you are working large areas of the same color.

I am a stabber, does anyone here use the 'sewing' method?

While we're on the topic of sharing tips, I've recently discovered this little tip on separating floss: http://www.better-cross-stitch-patterns ... floss.html

I've also recently started using the following method when beginning using a new thread http://www.ehow.com/video_5473568_start ... g-end.html. Note that this method only work when you need an even number of threads.

[Sakuradrops915]

The first link you posted about the push and pull method, I think that only really works with free handers, or people who don't use loops. I tried for like 20 minutes to do this and only was successful after i tried it without the loop... Did anyone else have any luck?

The last link, the one about the loop at the end of the needle, that is all i am ever going to do now and am so happy you found that. I was always winding up with little fluffs coming through the fabric from those ends. Yay no more fluffs Thanks for posting the links.

[DMLC]

The only way you can stitch faster is if you have a lap/table/floor stand that allows one hand above and below.
Your wrists are getting sore from the constant twisting -- just be careful-- stretch your wrists between needles--
I use to use the hoops and I hurt my right wrist from constantly twisting it stitching--now I have a lap/table stand and that problem has gone away for the most part!! If you stitch alot -- I would think about investing in a stand.