How To Use And Organise Your Threads For Cross Stitch

Getting to grips with your threads before you start stitching is one of those small things that makes a really big difference. A few minutes of preparation means no tangles, no muddles, and a much more enjoyable stitching experience from start to finish. Here's everything you need to know!

What You'll Need

• Your thread card (as supplied in your kit)
• Your threads
• A hole punch

Step 1: Get to Know Your Thread Card

When your threads arrive, they'll be wound around a card. You'll notice a needle tucked inside and along the card you'll find the names and numbers of each thread colour. It's worth keeping this card safe throughout your project, as those colour names and numbers are really useful if you ever want to re-stitch the design or try it on a different colour Aida in the future.

Step 2: Unwind Your Threads

Start by unwinding all of your threads from the card so that they're hanging loose. You could simply leave them like this if you prefer - it does give you very easy access - but a little bit of extra organisation goes a long way, so read on for a much tidier solution!

Step 3: Fold and Secure Each Thread onto the Card

Take one bundle of threads and keep it folded in half, so that all the loose ends are at one end and the fold sits at the other. Pinch the fold firmly between your fingers to keep everything neat and together.

Now, feed that folded end through one of the holes on your thread card, pulling it through just enough so that you have a visible loop on the other side. Pass the loose ends of the thread through that loop and pull gently to tighten. This creates a simple lark's head knot that holds your threads securely on the card, they won't slip off, they won't get muddled, and you can easily pull out individual threads whenever you need them.

Repeat this for each colour, working your way along the card until all of your threads are neatly secured.

Step 4: Pull Out Individual Threads with Ease

Once all your threads are knotted onto the card, you can pull out one thread at a time without disturbing the rest. This keeps everything tidy, makes your kit much more portable, and means you can pop it in your bag without worrying about tangles - or curious pets and little hands getting involved!

Step 5: Add Extra Holes for Leftover Threads

Here's a brilliant extra tip! Use a hole punch to add an additional hole next to each colour on your card. This gives you somewhere to store any leftover lengths of thread that are too short to use on the current project but are still perfectly good for future ones. Simply secure them in the same way using a lark's head knot.

This way, nothing goes to waste and you'll build up a lovely little collection of thread snippets that are just right for smaller projects or repairs down the line.

You're All Set to Start Stitching!

With your threads neatly organised and secured on your card, you're all ready to begin. A little preparation at this stage really does set you up for a much more relaxing and enjoyable stitching experience - and it means more time doing the part we all love best!