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Counted cross stitch is done with a blunt tipped tapestry needle. These needles are also characterized by having
a proportionately larger eye than traditional sewing needles. Needle manufacturers will typically suggest that you choose a
needle with an eye just large enough to spread the threads on your fabric sufficiently to allow the smooth movement of
floss through the fabric.
Bigger is better when stitching on linens
The usual recommendation is that a #22 needle should be used on all fabrics with a count of 14 or lower, a #24 is
suggested for 16ct to 18ct and a #26 for those fabrics with a higher count than eighteen. While there is nothing wrong
with these suggestions, stitching with a larger than recommended needle will yield a better result. Why? As you stitch, you
repeatedly draw your thread through the fabric and each time you do this the surface of the thread is roughened by friction.
Using a larger than recommended needle, a #24 on 28ct linen for instance, opens the fabric threads wider reducing friction.
Your thread will retain its luster, the stitching its sheen—and you, the stitcher, will reap the glory!
Don't worry about the size of the needle holes in the fabric. As soon as you launder your work in preparation
for finishing, they will shrink back to size.
Here's to beautiful stitching!
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