He, he he. I'm a country girl and I said that same 'what!' when I first heard Orvus referred to as a 'quilters soap'. Same reaction - opposite reason :D I do love that you defend Aida. It's amazing how some people can become fabric & floss snobs, looking down their noses at less expensive choices. Not all stitchers have unlimited funds to spend on their passions, especially beginners who don't want to invest in overdyed linen & silks or hand-dyed threads as they may find that needlework is not their cup of tea after all. Aida & cotton are a good place to start the needlework journey. My MIL used to cross stitch on 32ct linen and often used silks too. Now she's in her 70's, her eyesight is not good at all even with magnifiers and blazing lamps, and she has a set retirement income, so she's back to 14ct Aida and DMC cottons. Without those options, she wouldn't be stitching at all. I'm sure one day I'll be squinting at my linens and deciding it's time to get back to the fabulous Aida. I say better to get your enjoyment on a fabric you can see, or within your budget, and ignore the fabric snobs and flossists.
Thank you for sharing your stitching journey! If you have someone that writes,you should publish a book off of your videos! I’d definitely buy it! Mahalo from Hawaii 🥰
Jean, thank you. Your videos are helping remind me of things I didn't remember, and teach me things I didn't know after my return to cross stitching. In the past, I would get together with friends to stitch or stitch at a class or LNS open session and could observe and ask others about their techniques. The pandemic makes that impossible now, but I'm getting great guidance from you. I'm really enjoying your videos. Thanks again.
Thank you so much for your thorough explanation on the silk floss. I was so fortunate to find MANY skeins of an expensive line in our thrift store for almost no money! I am determined to make something beautiful with them. They are all rich blues. Your pear work is just gorgeous. Those stitches😍 I always look forward to your videos.
Hi Jean First I want to say I have been cross stitching for nearly 40 years. I Thought I knew what I was doing! How many ways can I say NOT! Anna said to check you out. I started from the beginning, the first one had me OH MY! I DID NOT KNOW THAT! Your teaching is amazing! And your work is amazing! All your information is time saving an makes me look GREAT! THANK YOU Debbie
Enjoyed the Q and A. It answered questions I didn't know I had. I just get so much information and enjoyment from your channel. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and expertise.
Thank you so much. I enjoyed listening to all the questions and answers. I wish we could all sit together and stitch and chat in person. Never been in a cruise before but that stitch cruise sounds so wonderful.
We learn so much from each other. I come away with some valuable tidbit from my students every time I teach face2face. I can't wait to be able to do it again! And a cruise is such a relaxing environment to stitch and chat!
Another great episode and coincidence😄! I just came back from town looking for Orvus soap. No luck of course and was going to look it up and you gave such a great explanation. My other coincidence was the knotting of the floss when I discovered your channel AND explanation which has worked wonders ever since. Thank you for all the great information and tips.
"Those were great answers" and sharing your experience and knowledge is a real pleasure to watch. A big thank you. I'm off to route out a white rubber.
Jean, I have been watching your videos since the beginning but have never commented. I want to thank you for everything you’ve taught me so far. I began stitching at the beginning of this pandemic and have seen such an improvement in my stitches since I’ve been watching and using your ideas. Thank you for taking the time to do these videos!
I just downloaded Lady Catherine’s Garden and have already received the called for linen. I’m excited to get started! Thank you for your stitching advice. You are an inspiration!
Thank you for this q and a video. I was wondering many of the same things that you covered in it! Very helpful as always. We, your viewers, seem to keep you very busy with our questions, but we are grateful to have someone with your expertise to guide us. Thank you!!
Thank you so much for your knowledge that you have given to us so freely. I have learned so many things and have been nudged into thinking about other things in my stitching endeavors. Stay well and will be waiting for the next installment .
Another great Flosstube. I love learning everything I can to help in the process of stitching and finishing the projects. Thank you for taking the time of researching and sharing your knowledge. It is very much appreciated.😘
Such great information that you have shared. One thing I do when I'm separating strands and need to pick up with the same end later is to clip those ends together with a quilters clip. It is especially helpful when there is not a lot of variegation in the thread. I love Orvis soap and I bought the HUGE container from my farm and ranch store. I use it to wash my car, spot clean carpets, etc. I go through a tub every 5 years or so. Living in ranching country, you'd be surprised how often you grab Orvis to clean. Excellent answers to the questions posed. I hope you do another video like this. Happy stitching!
Orvis is is amazing I use it to wash my wool sweaters. I have a huge jar I bought from my local Co-op. I've had it for 7 years...still works GREAT! A LITTLE DAB WILL DO YOU.
Jean, thank you so much for doing these videos. I had a travel size cosmetic jar that I used for a damp sponge, and I have not had one incident of my floss knotting. Thank you!!!
Another very informative video - thanks! It’s so interesting to continue to learn about this craft that I love! I’m so glad you decided to join floss tube :)
Jean I'm so glad I found you I always wanted a master's degree in cross stitch. I am an intermediate stitcher but I have learned so much from you. I'm going tovdo your SAL with cosmo floss I never heard of this floss however it seems to be a great alternative to expensive silk. Thank you so much for making these videos. I am trying to get the floss card but everone is out of it. Love love these videos.
Hi Jean! Hello from British Columbia, Canada!! :) I have just found your channel and I am binge watching all of your episodes! :) I have been stitching for years, but I am learning so much from you .... thank you soooooo much!! :) For washing fabrics, I try to think about is what the fabric is made of, and the correct type of soap and water temperature to use. I have washed all kinds of garments and stitching projects that have said dry clean only, including wedding gowns, wool garments and silk! If I do not know about the fabric properties, I Google it and test a sample if possible. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us all!!
Welcome! I applaud your willingness to get answers and seek advice when you want to learn how to do something ... as a life-long educator, I find that being self-taught is the ideal way!
Hi Jean, Thank you for so much useful information. Just wetting the thread is a tip, for which, I will be forever grateful! I have a quick question as I am just returning to cross stitch after an absence of 20 years and in that time my vision has certainly changed for the worse. What light do you use and as for magnification, what do you recommend. I find your magnetic glasses to be fascinating.
I have a floor lamp at each of the two places where I usually sit to stitch. They are both Ott Lite Natural Daylight LED. Frankly, I waited until they were on sale at a big box store. I like them. And I just ordered a similar style from TaoTronics that is much less expensive and has choices of "color temperature" from cool to warm. Allowing for the true floss colors to show is as important to me as the brightness level. I'll let you know if I like the TaoTronic as much as the Ott.
Jean, can you show us how to use the overdyed floss? As in the Weeks dye works comes in a 5 yd long strand. How do we cut that up and use it correctly for the variation? Such as after your done with your first 2 strands then how do you go back and decide where to get the next 2 strands to keep the variation correct, or does it even matter which strands you choose next. If it matters how do you keep them labeled so you know where you cut off your last 2 strands?
If someone is concerned about dust etc,they can always place the hanger that the floss rings are in in a pillow case and still hang it. Put the closed end with small hole in it over the hanger..
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences. How do I get folding creases out of linen or other needlework fabric? Also can you show how to do a pin-stitch when ending a thread.
For stubborn creases, I just do my regular wash and iron routine. I don't do anything special. I don't use the pin stitch to end a thread. It's on my list of things to try, though.
Hi Jean, I wondered what kind of frame you use when sewing and if you could show some that you use. I like your programmes as they are so informative. Thank you, Anne in the UK
Jean your education is invaluable to me I look forward to each and everyone of these. I would love to take a class with you I know with Covid I’m sure you’re not doing anything but when this opens up again do you offer retreats our classes and how do you post for them?
I sponsor a small whitework retreat here in Winston-Salem (NC) once a year and I organize stitching cruises. Both 2020 events were cancelled. I do have an Alaskan cruise planned for May 2021. I also teach at retreats that others organize and I teach for EGA and other guild chapters. I need to do a better job of getting the word out. Currently, I rely on Facebook and the Stitchers' Escapes website (www.stitchersescapes.com)
I am a very new stitcher and I’m obsessed! I’ve only finished one piece and I framed and finished it myself with a method my mom told me was incorrect. Oops! Can you share how you mount and frame your pieces? Also I just bought my first piece of linen and was wondering if you use a q snap kind of frame when stitching or just free hand? Pros and cons for each? I’m so happy I found your channel!
I stitch "in hand" because it's what comes naturally to me. Many stitchers use Q-snaps, embroidery hoops, or stretcher bars. The main thing is to be comfortable when stitching. Here's a blog post about framing ... and somewhere in one the FlossTube episodes I talk about it, too .... but I don't remember which one :) www.jeanfarishneedleworks.com/wordpress/mounting-your-needlework-the-easy-way/
Excellent video, full of great information...again! I also have a question to add to your list about stitching with two strands of floss. During the process of stitching, the ends of my floss become uneven-the longer the run of stitches, the more uneven they become. I wonder if that is something that is just the nature of stitching, or, is there a motion I am making that causes the creeping thread. I have asked a couple fellow stitchers, and they also notice this issue. I get that there is more of one side of the thread being used in each stitch over the area being stitched.
I used to fuss about that and wonder what caused it and tried to fix it ... and then I thought, well, if my stitches are even and the 2 strands parallel, do I need to know how it happens that I end up with a disparity? And I decided I didn't need to know! :)
Thank you for sharing your expertise. Have you shown how you stitch in hand in one of your past videos? I thought I watched it in the past but I cannot find it now.
First of all, a great big thank you for all that you are teaching us! I have learned so much already. Now my question: my LNS does not serge the fabrics one buys from them and I do not own a serger machine, so what is your advice on how to sew, or something the edges of my fabric to get it ready to cross stitch so that it won't unravel?
I used to use a product called "Fray Check" for all my edges. It's a good solution for those who don't happen to have their sewing machine set up and ready to go at a moment's notice ... it's a luxury for sure! Most of my life I haven't had a dedicated space for my needlework like I do now.
Thank you for your advice on a recent video: I’m now practicing stitching on linen, 2 over 2, on 20 count linen. The project will be huge, 😆, but my eyes are starting to see where the next stitch should go. Also, the Victorian Cross is such a wonderful help; I use it to stitch as much of my projects as possible, and the variegated stitches look wonderful!!🧵 Btw, I put a little white vinegar in the water with my Dawn soap when I wash my finished project. It seems to work. Do you think it’s doing the project harm?
It's great to know you are trying out the linen and starting with 20-count is brilliant! On the vinegar question ... vinegar is acidic and I try for a neutral pH ... so I guess the question is, is the vinegar doing any good? I need to think about this some ...
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks I use white vinegar to set colors when I first wash darks fhat bleed, so I’m hoping it keeps the floss from bleeding. So far, so good!!
When using whisper thread from rainbow gallery, would you recommend wetting that down before using. Or would that ruin the fluffiness, even if you wait for it to dry? thank you!
Dear Ms. Jean, if we ever meet please do not look at the back of my stitch. I am a self taught cross stitcher from many moons ago and starting to get back to it. After I watch your floss tube, I understood why’s of having the back nice and neat. Thank you. More teaching pls.😁
I don't take any special steps like storing my linen in acid-free cardboard boxes but I do avoid storing them in plastic. My storage needs are not the same as the average consumer so let me tell you what I would do if I didn't buy my linen in 2-to-5 yard bolts. I would fold as necessary to fit on a skirt hanger and hang them in a closet, away from sunlight and dust.
I believe that as long as the glass is not in contact with the fabric, either by use of spacers or a mat, that glass offers some protection. I know this is a hot topic among stitchers and I'm not "out" to convince a non-glass user that they need to use glass. Glass does protect the stitchery from smoke, dust, and other invaders.
If you're stitching with white floss, I am guessing that you're stitching on a medium or dark fabric. The contrast may be what is making the coverage seem skimpy. Are you keeping the 2 strands parallel to each other? That can make a difference.
Aida is meant to be stiff so it is more like a canvas than fabric. It's made this way to "help" stitchers keep an even tension. That said, it's okay to pre-wash to soften it.
Debbie, there are brands which are not stiff. I've stitched on Picture This Plus 14ct Aida (123Stitch website and Fat Quarter Shop website) and also 14ct Aida dyed by Misty at Luminous Fiber Arts (she has an Etsy shop) and I find those brands to be much softer. Both 123Stitch and FQS have "notify me when in stock" options when PTP is sold out. Misty notifies in advance via newsletter when she will have a shop update containing 14ct Aida; her fabric sells quickly. After trying these softer Aidas I have a difficult time using the stiffer brands!
I know PTP is behind on fabric because of supply issues, but definitely make use of the "notify me" buttons on those websites 🙂. FQS is planning to have an Aida PTP subscription box in 2021 and I'm definitely going to join that! It's a good way to branch out and try new colors.
Sounds like my house, finding engine parts in your basin. They think I’m a real stickler in my house but I have to make what they can and cannot use in the garage clear or everything in my kitchen would be in the garage. Lol!
He, he he. I'm a country girl and I said that same 'what!' when I first heard Orvus referred to as a 'quilters soap'. Same reaction - opposite reason :D I do love that you defend Aida. It's amazing how some people can become fabric & floss snobs, looking down their noses at less expensive choices. Not all stitchers have unlimited funds to spend on their passions, especially beginners who don't want to invest in overdyed linen & silks or hand-dyed threads as they may find that needlework is not their cup of tea after all. Aida & cotton are a good place to start the needlework journey. My MIL used to cross stitch on 32ct linen and often used silks too. Now she's in her 70's, her eyesight is not good at all even with magnifiers and blazing lamps, and she has a set retirement income, so she's back to 14ct Aida and DMC cottons. Without those options, she wouldn't be stitching at all. I'm sure one day I'll be squinting at my linens and deciding it's time to get back to the fabulous Aida. I say better to get your enjoyment on a fabric you can see, or within your budget, and ignore the fabric snobs and flossists.
I love your comments/reaction! Thanks for watching!
She made me laugh out loud too HAHA
Thank you for sharing your stitching journey! If you have someone that writes,you should publish a book off of your videos! I’d definitely buy it!
Mahalo from Hawaii 🥰
Jean, thank you. Your videos are helping remind me of things I didn't remember, and teach me things I didn't know after my return to cross stitching. In the past, I would get together with friends to stitch or stitch at a class or LNS open session and could observe and ask others about their techniques. The pandemic makes that impossible now, but I'm getting great guidance from you. I'm really enjoying your videos. Thanks again.
You are so welcome! I think we are all looking forward to when we can gather to stitch and chat!
Thank you so much for your thorough explanation on the silk floss. I was so fortunate to find MANY skeins of an expensive line in our thrift store for almost no money! I am determined to make something beautiful with them. They are all rich blues. Your pear work is just gorgeous. Those stitches😍 I always look forward to your videos.
Glad it was helpful!
Hi Jean
First I want to say I have been cross stitching for nearly 40 years. I Thought I knew what I was doing!
How many ways can I say NOT! Anna said to check you out. I started from the beginning, the first one had me OH MY! I DID NOT KNOW THAT! Your teaching is amazing! And your work is amazing! All your information is time saving an makes me look GREAT! THANK YOU Debbie
You are so very welcome. I'm so glad that Anna mentioned me. Thanks for watching!
Enjoyed the Q and A. It answered questions I didn't know I had. I just get so much information and enjoyment from your channel. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge and expertise.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much. I enjoyed listening to all the questions and answers. I wish we could all sit together and stitch and chat in person. Never been in a cruise before but that stitch cruise sounds so wonderful.
We learn so much from each other. I come away with some valuable tidbit from my students every time I teach face2face. I can't wait to be able to do it again! And a cruise is such a relaxing environment to stitch and chat!
Thank you! I always learn something new from your videos and greatly appreciate them! ❤️
I'm so glad!
I love your videos so incredibly! And it's always so nice to hear that you pronounce the word Aida correctly. ❤️👍 Wonderful! Thank you so much
Thank you! 😃
For almost forty years, I have heard "Aida" pronounced the way Jean does. That's how I have always said it, too, and I'm sticking with it!!!
@@DaisyODay very well! I always pronounce Aida like that. It's because, as a German, I don't know anything else 🤷♂️😊
Another great episode and coincidence😄! I just came back from town looking for Orvus soap. No luck of course and was going to look it up and you gave such a great explanation. My other coincidence was the knotting of the floss when I discovered your channel AND explanation which has worked wonders ever since. Thank you for all the great information and tips.
You are so welcome! Thanks for watching!!
"Those were great answers" and sharing your experience and knowledge is a real pleasure to watch. A big thank you. I'm off to route out a white rubber.
Awesome, thank you!
Thanks for taking the time to help us....I learn so much watching you...please take care ...
Thank you, I will! I'm pretty much still sheltering in place ...
Jean, I have been watching your videos since the beginning but have never commented. I want to thank you for everything you’ve taught me so far. I began stitching at the beginning of this pandemic and have seen such an improvement in my stitches since I’ve been watching and using your ideas. Thank you for taking the time to do these videos!
Wow, thank you!
I just downloaded Lady Catherine’s Garden and have already received the called for linen. I’m excited to get started! Thank you for your stitching advice. You are an inspiration!
Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Thank you for this q and a video. I was wondering many of the same things that you covered in it! Very helpful as always. We, your viewers, seem to keep you very busy with our questions, but we are grateful to have someone with your expertise to guide us. Thank you!!
Glad it was helpful!
I’m making a wet sponge pot as I watch! I also agree I find wash and ironing plumps up my stitches and I love the look of it! Great video x
Thanks!
Thank you so much for your knowledge that you have given to us so freely. I have learned so many things and have been nudged into thinking about other things in my stitching endeavors. Stay well and will be waiting for the next installment .
You are so welcome!
Another great Flosstube. I love learning everything I can to help in the process of stitching and finishing the projects. Thank you for taking the time of researching and sharing your knowledge. It is very much appreciated.😘
You are so welcome!
love these Q & As. You’re never too old to learn! Thank you again.
Glad you like them!
Such great information that you have shared. One thing I do when I'm separating strands and need to pick up with the same end later is to clip those ends together with a quilters clip. It is especially helpful when there is not a lot of variegation in the thread. I love Orvis soap and I bought the HUGE container from my farm and ranch store. I use it to wash my car, spot clean carpets, etc. I go through a tub every 5 years or so. Living in ranching country, you'd be surprised how often you grab Orvis to clean. Excellent answers to the questions posed. I hope you do another video like this. Happy stitching!
I love that idea!
I appreciate your thoughtful, considered and thorough advice - it’s most helpful. I really enjoy your videos and look forward to them.
Thank you so much!
Finished my SAL. It was so much fun. Thanks for the pretty design
Wonderful!
Thank you for taking the time to film these videos as a new stitcher I have learned so much from you
Thanks for watching!
Orvis is is amazing I use it to wash my wool sweaters. I have a huge jar I bought from my local Co-op. I've had it for 7 years...still works GREAT! A LITTLE DAB WILL DO YOU.
Thanks for sharing!!
Jean, thank you so much for doing these videos. I had a travel size cosmetic jar that I used for a damp sponge, and I have not had one incident of my floss knotting. Thank you!!!
Good to know!
Another very informative video - thanks! It’s so interesting to continue to learn about this craft that I love! I’m so glad you decided to join floss tube :)
Glad you enjoyed it! I'm wondering why it took me so long to join in the fun!
Love watching you girl ❤️❤️
Thank you!
So appreciate your wisdom. Thank you, your videos are SO helpful.
You are so welcome!
Jean I'm so glad I found you I always wanted a master's degree in cross stitch. I am an intermediate stitcher but I have learned so much from you. I'm going tovdo your SAL with cosmo floss I never heard of this floss however it seems to be a great alternative to expensive silk. Thank you so much for making these videos. I am trying to get the floss card but everone is out of it. Love love these videos.
Thanks for your comments and thanks for watching!
thanks again for another very informative and interesting show. always look forward to the next one
Glad you enjoyed it
Tried the sponge with water and it worked like a charm Thank you.
Hi Jean! Hello from British Columbia, Canada!! :) I have just found your channel and I am binge watching all of your episodes! :) I have been stitching for years, but I am learning so much from you .... thank you soooooo much!! :) For washing fabrics, I try to think about is what the fabric is made of, and the correct type of soap and water temperature to use. I have washed all kinds of garments and stitching projects that have said dry clean only, including wedding gowns, wool garments and silk! If I do not know about the fabric properties, I Google it and test a sample if possible. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us all!!
Welcome! I applaud your willingness to get answers and seek advice when you want to learn how to do something ... as a life-long educator, I find that being self-taught is the ideal way!
Thank you for several great tips on theads and linen stitching.
You are so welcome!
Hi Jean, Thank you for so much useful information. Just wetting the thread is a tip, for which, I will be forever grateful! I have a quick question as I am just returning to cross stitch after an absence of 20 years and in that time my vision has certainly changed for the worse. What light do you use and as for magnification, what do you recommend. I find your magnetic glasses to be fascinating.
I have a floor lamp at each of the two places where I usually sit to stitch. They are both Ott Lite Natural Daylight LED. Frankly, I waited until they were on sale at a big box store. I like them. And I just ordered a similar style from TaoTronics that is much less expensive and has choices of "color temperature" from cool to warm. Allowing for the true floss colors to show is as important to me as the brightness level. I'll let you know if I like the TaoTronic as much as the Ott.
Thank you- thank you for your time and sharing your expertise- you are a jewel. Please take care of you!
Thank you, I will!
🤗 Thank you Jean always helpful information. Take care.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for your very informative videos. I have learned so much from you!
I'm so glad!
Thanks so much! I have been incorporating so many of these tips into my work lately.
Fantastic!
Thank you for taking the time to do this video. Great information.
Glad it was helpful!
Fabulous video again Jean!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great information. Great video!
Thank you!
Jean, can you show us how to use the overdyed floss? As in the Weeks dye works comes in a 5 yd long strand. How do we cut that up and use it correctly for the variation? Such as after your done with your first 2 strands then how do you go back and decide where to get the next 2 strands to keep the variation correct, or does it even matter which strands you choose next. If it matters how do you keep them labeled so you know where you cut off your last 2 strands?
Good questions! I hope to talk about this a little more on Saturday.
If someone is concerned about dust etc,they can always place the hanger that the floss rings are in in a pillow case and still hang it. Put the closed end with small hole in it over the hanger..
That's so true!
I use tweezers to pick the fuzz off left behind when frogging.
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experiences. How do I get folding creases out of linen or other needlework fabric? Also can you show how to do a pin-stitch when ending a thread.
For stubborn creases, I just do my regular wash and iron routine. I don't do anything special. I don't use the pin stitch to end a thread. It's on my list of things to try, though.
Hi Jean, I wondered what kind of frame you use when sewing and if you could show some that you use.
I like your programmes as they are so informative. Thank you, Anne in the UK
I stitch "in hand" so I don't use a hoop or any kind of frame.
Lots more great advice. Thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for the great information. Very very helpful.
You are so welcome!
I just tried tried the towels vs wool mat when ironing. It was very clear to me the wool mat flattened the stitches.
Thanks for letting me know. I hope you can "plump" them back up!
Thank you!😊
Jean your education is invaluable to me I look forward to each and everyone of these. I would love to take a class with you I know with Covid I’m sure you’re not doing anything but when this opens up again do you offer retreats our classes and how do you post for them?
I sponsor a small whitework retreat here in Winston-Salem (NC) once a year and I organize stitching cruises. Both 2020 events were cancelled. I do have an Alaskan cruise planned for May 2021. I also teach at retreats that others organize and I teach for EGA and other guild chapters. I need to do a better job of getting the word out. Currently, I rely on Facebook and the Stitchers' Escapes website (www.stitchersescapes.com)
So very helpful! Thank you.
You are so welcome!
I am a very new stitcher and I’m obsessed! I’ve only finished one piece and I framed and finished it myself with a method my mom told me was incorrect. Oops! Can you share how you mount and frame your pieces? Also I just bought my first piece of linen and was wondering if you use a q snap kind of frame when stitching or just free hand? Pros and cons for each? I’m so happy I found your channel!
I stitch "in hand" because it's what comes naturally to me. Many stitchers use Q-snaps, embroidery hoops, or stretcher bars. The main thing is to be comfortable when stitching. Here's a blog post about framing ... and somewhere in one the FlossTube episodes I talk about it, too .... but I don't remember which one :)
www.jeanfarishneedleworks.com/wordpress/mounting-your-needlework-the-easy-way/
Great video.Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Excellent video, full of great information...again! I also have a question to add to your list about stitching with two strands of floss. During the process of stitching, the ends of my floss become uneven-the longer the run of stitches, the more uneven they become. I wonder if that is something that is just the nature of stitching, or, is there a motion I am making that causes the creeping thread. I have asked a couple fellow stitchers, and they also notice this issue. I get that there is more of one side of the thread being used in each stitch over the area being stitched.
I used to fuss about that and wonder what caused it and tried to fix it ... and then I thought, well, if my stitches are even and the 2 strands parallel, do I need to know how it happens that I end up with a disparity? And I decided I didn't need to know! :)
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thank you! That was my conclusion, too, and my stitchy friends concurred. It’s great to know that you confirm our thoughts.
Thanks for great information.
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for sharing your expertise. Have you shown how you stitch in hand in one of your past videos? I thought I watched it in the past but I cannot find it now.
Not specifically, I haven't ...
First of all, a great big thank you for all that you are teaching us! I have learned so much already.
Now my question: my LNS does not serge the fabrics one buys from them and I do not own a serger machine, so what is your advice on how to sew, or something the edges of my fabric to get it ready to cross stitch so that it won't unravel?
I used to use a product called "Fray Check" for all my edges. It's a good solution for those who don't happen to have their sewing machine set up and ready to go at a moment's notice ... it's a luxury for sure! Most of my life I haven't had a dedicated space for my needlework like I do now.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thanks, I'll look for it!
Thank you for your advice on a recent video: I’m now practicing stitching on linen, 2 over 2, on 20 count linen. The project will be huge, 😆, but my eyes are starting to see where the next stitch should go. Also, the Victorian Cross is such a wonderful help; I use it to stitch as much of my projects as possible, and the variegated stitches look wonderful!!🧵
Btw, I put a little white vinegar in the water with my Dawn soap when I wash my finished project. It seems to work. Do you think it’s doing the project harm?
It's great to know you are trying out the linen and starting with 20-count is brilliant! On the vinegar question ... vinegar is acidic and I try for a neutral pH ... so I guess the question is, is the vinegar doing any good? I need to think about this some ...
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks I use white vinegar to set colors when I first wash darks fhat bleed, so I’m hoping it keeps the floss from bleeding. So far, so good!!
Thank you I learned so much.
I'm so glad!
When using whisper thread from rainbow gallery, would you recommend wetting that down before using. Or would that ruin the fluffiness, even if you wait for it to dry?
thank you!
No, I wouldn't dampen threads that are highly textured like Whisper.
Dear Ms. Jean, if we ever meet please do not look at the back of my stitch. I am a self taught cross stitcher from many moons ago and starting to get back to it. After I watch your floss tube, I understood why’s of having the back nice and neat. Thank you. More teaching pls.😁
I only look if the person asks me to!
Synthrapol and Retayne help with bleeding and setting dyes.
I'm familiar with both ... stay tuned!
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
I have been stashing linen when I can find colors I want for future projects. What is the best way to store these fabrics until I can use them?
I don't take any special steps like storing my linen in acid-free cardboard boxes but I do avoid storing them in plastic. My storage needs are not the same as the average consumer so let me tell you what I would do if I didn't buy my linen in 2-to-5 yard bolts. I would fold as necessary to fit on a skirt hanger and hang them in a closet, away from sunlight and dust.
What are the pros and cons of using glass on your samplers?
I believe that as long as the glass is not in contact with the fabric, either by use of spacers or a mat, that glass offers some protection. I know this is a hot topic among stitchers and I'm not "out" to convince a non-glass user that they need to use glass. Glass does protect the stitchery from smoke, dust, and other invaders.
I was wondering if your washing technique can be used on projects stitched on black aida?
If the fabric is colorfast, I don't see a reason it would not work. If in doubt, cut a small piece off the edge of the project and test wash it.
I get poor coverage with white DMC floss 2 over 2. Is it the floss or my technique?
If you're stitching with white floss, I am guessing that you're stitching on a medium or dark fabric. The contrast may be what is making the coverage seem skimpy. Are you keeping the 2 strands parallel to each other? That can make a difference.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks thank you for the reply. I will pay more attention and see if it solves my problem.
Stich happy! 💗
You, too!
My grand daughter uses Orvus to wash her hair.
I'll bet she has beautiful hair!
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Long & blond.
Aida fabric is so stiff, will it soften if I wash it first? Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Aida is meant to be stiff so it is more like a canvas than fabric. It's made this way to "help" stitchers keep an even tension. That said, it's okay to pre-wash to soften it.
@@JeanFarishNeedleworks Thank you!
Debbie, there are brands which are not stiff. I've stitched on Picture This Plus 14ct Aida (123Stitch website and Fat Quarter Shop website) and also 14ct Aida dyed by Misty at Luminous Fiber Arts (she has an Etsy shop) and I find those brands to be much softer. Both 123Stitch and FQS have "notify me when in stock" options when PTP is sold out. Misty notifies in advance via newsletter when she will have a shop update containing 14ct Aida; her fabric sells quickly. After trying these softer Aidas I have a difficult time using the stiffer brands!
@@texasglendastitcher Thank you! I will check both sites.
I know PTP is behind on fabric because of supply issues, but definitely make use of the "notify me" buttons on those websites 🙂. FQS is planning to have an Aida PTP subscription box in 2021 and I'm definitely going to join that! It's a good way to branch out and try new colors.
Sounds like my house, finding engine parts in your basin. They think I’m a real stickler in my house but I have to make what they can and cannot use in the garage clear or everything in my kitchen would be in the garage. Lol!
You gotta do whatcha gotta do!
Hey Jean I sent you a message in Etsy
Got it and replied!