Are you confused if you should use cross-stitching or embroidery? Do you know which of these two techniques is better: cross stitch vs. embroidery?
Cross stitch is one of the most straightforward stitching techniques and is used extensively all over the world. Embroidery has been used for centuries to decorate fabrics and home décor items.
Although cross stitch is one of the forms of embroidery, there are some significant differences that you need to be aware of.
Based on what you are trying to create, one of these two crafting techniques will be better for you. Without further ado, let’s get into all the details about embroidery vs. cross stitch.
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross Stitch creates patterns by forming X-shaped stitches, hence the name “cross.” It is a type of embroidery technique wherein the number of threads can measure the design in the fabric.
You can use cross-stitching for surface embroidery. Sometimes, texture and shaping are done with the help of partial stitches.
Historically, cross-stitching was mostly used for decorating household items like linens and dish towels. Nowadays, it is commonly used to create pictures.
It requires a yarn or thread and a canvas or cloth. You may use an embroidery hoop or frame to stretch out the fabric and avoid distorted designs.
What is Embroidery?
Embroidery has been all around us for a long time. Most of us have come across some form of embroidery at least once, even if we might not have noticed it.
Embroidery is a broad term that includes a bunch of fabric craft forms. All forms of embroidery involve creating patterns and designs on fabrics or other materials by stitching.
Embroidery can be broadly classified into two categories – hand embroidery and machine embroidery.
You can use hand embroidery to create relatively simple designs with the help of basic stitching techniques. Machine embroidery is used to create more intricate designs.
Differences Between Cross Stitch vs. Embroidery
Here are the differences between embroidery and cross-stitch.
Cross Stitch vs. Embroidery
- Embroidery encompasses various stitching techniques, including cross-stitch. Cross stitch is a type of embroidery technique. All cross stitch designs are embroideries, but all embroideries are not cross-stitch.
- Cross stitching is used only on fabric or canvas, whereas embroidery can be used on other materials as well.
- In recent years, embroidery has evolved to include sequins, beads, pearls, and quills. On the contrary, cross-stitching only requires a thread or yarn and a sewing needle.
- Back in the day, the embroidery was used for recording significant events, reinforcing clothing, and decorating religious objects. Cross stitch was initially used for decorating or customizing everyday household items like linens and dishtowels.
Final Thoughts
If you are looking to create a simple pattern on canvas or fabric using just thread, cross stitch is the ideal choice. If you want to create a sophisticated design using different materials and techniques, you should be looking at embroidery.
Cross stitch vs. embroidery is not a very complicated distinction. The former has a narrower scope of use and has limited applicability relative to the latter.
Till next time!
