How to read our charts

All charts in cross stitch magazines and books include colours and symbols. A cross stitch chart includes detailed cross stitch instructions. It is divided into squares, and each square contains its own symbol. And one symbol on your chart corresponds with one stitch on your work.

The chart has the key where you can see what symbols are used for different thread colours and how many strands you need to use for each cross stitch, backstitch or French knot. The key also includes information about cross stitch dimensions, so you can correct the size of your cross stitch fabric. This key gives you full information about how to cross stitch.

There is the list of the cross stitch thread numbers in the first column. These numbers refer to the brand that is used to stitch the cross stitch pattern. Numbers of two other brands are given in the rest columns, but actually they can be not exact equivalents. So try not to mix two or more brands in one design. Probably you will need more than one skein of one colour and you will not have any problems if you use brands from the key.

Besides, most of the projects include a shopping list. There you can see additional information about type and size of fabric and frame that you should use and information about cross stitch accessories and extra materials if you will need any.