Guidelines for stitching on 30 Count Linen

[ecology665]

Hello, I just recently purchased a 30-count linen. What are the guidelines for this count? Do I do 2 over 2? This is really small, I'm thinking 3 over 3? Can you give me the guidelines for stitch counts? 25 Count, 27 Count, etc.

[Stitchinkitty]

Strictly speaking,there are no set in stone rules.Most fabrics are usually stitched over two threads,25,27,28,30,32 ct.
I only use two strands of floss for 25 ,27and 28 ct.I can stitch on 30 ct if I use a stronger magnifier.Old eyes put a crimp on finer fabrics.
There's nothing to stop you from stitching over 3 on 30 ct.That would equate to 10ct.I'd be inclined to try three strands of floss to see how good the coverage is.Whatever you decide,don't stress and have fun.

[Allyn]

It all depends on what size you want the finished piece to be. You can stitch over-1, over-2, and even over-3 if you want to, but it seems a waste, imo, to buy 30-ct and then stitch over-3 on it. To get decent coverage, you'd have to use three strands, but putting twelve strands (three strands for each of 4 stitches that meet at the hole) through each corner hole would really distort the fabric. If you stitch over-1, I'd use one or two strands and tent stitch, but you could do one strand and do full crosses. Yes, over-2 would be small stitches, but that's what you use high-count fabrics for -- to get small stitches and a finer look than big, block-looking stitches.

If you have a design that is, let's say, 200 x 200 stitches, if you stitch over-1 on 30 ct, the result will be a finished piece that is 6.6 by 6.6 inches. If you stitch that same design over-2 on 30 ct, the result will be 13 x 13 inches. That same design stitched over-3 on 30 ct would be 20 x 20 inches. So you see, it all depends on how big or small you want the finished piece to be that will determine if you stitch over-1 or over-2. Then, of course, there's always the question of blended threads (has to be 2 strands) or fractional stitches (can't be done over-1).

[ecology665]

Thank You Marilyn and Allyn. I'll try it and see how it comes out. This is a gold project of a butterfly. It comprises using Krenik's ribbon and cord. Materials that I have never worked with.








Marilyn Monroe
In the Garret
(Maybe 'Golden Butterfly' by Janelle Marie Designs)

[Allyn]

That sounds like it's going to be beautiful. I'd do that 2-over-2, probably tent stitch it.

[Stitchinkitty]

If there's ribbon and cord,I'm with Allyn and would go for tent stitch.
Have fun

[richardandtracy]

One of my projects was 2 over 2 on 32ct full cross (ie 16ct equivalent) and I got pretty good coverage (if you are interested, it's this one http://www.crossstitchforum.com/viewtop ... 2&start=80). I'm not sure that tent stitching would give full coverage. I suggest you try it in a test area.

Regards,

Richard

[Serinde]

I agree with Richard, having worked on 32ct and 36ct, over 2 with 2 strands. Excellent coverage. But test -- can't hurt; might help.