Photo by Salihan.comShould you browse pictures of completed cross stitch patterns on the web, no doubt you have seen the stunning images of projects stitched with hand dyed floss. Since of the variety inside the coloring from the floss, this can cross stitch projects some incredible and unexpected final results.

Hand dyed floss is created just as the name implies – it’s dyed by hand.  Because of this, you can find variations within the quantity of colour throughout the thread. Some variations may be subtle, while some can be a massive contrast.  Some also have much more than one color per thread, which with the right cross stitch patterns, will produce amazing results.

When stitching with these stunning hand dyed cross stitch fibers, there’s an essential note that should be produced. Several stitchers usually will make all of their stitches going one way at 1 time, and then return to finish their crosses.  With hand dyed thread, stitching in this manner will give an effect that seems ‘muddied’.  Much more desirable final results can be achieved by finishing every “X” as you go.  Stitch both legs at once and then move onto the subsequent “X”.  This helps keep the range in the shade of thread all within the same stitch.  

There is another note that should be produced about stitching with hand dyed threads.  Numerous stitchers use a “loop” method to lessen the quantity of excess thread about the back.  This must not be done when stitching with hand dyed threads.  The reason is since when the thread is folded over to make the loop, diverse parts from the color variance will probably be following to each and every other.  This will similarly create a mixing from the colors in an undesirable way.

One final note about hand dyed floss is the colorfastness.  Most hand dyed threads aren’t colorfast, so it isn’t suggested to wash your stitching task when you’re finished stitching.  The result will probably be that the colour from the floss will bleed onto your fabric and other floss and your stitching task could be ruined.  

By following these three tips, you too can appreciate stitching with these beautiful hand dyed cross stitch fibers.  They really can add extra pizzazz to your stitching task.