This post is all about my favorite Cross Stitch tools and accessories.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you purchase anything through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
If you have been following my blog and reading my posts for any length of time, you know that I like to get up and do everything to maximize my day. However, there is one thing that I can sit and do for days. In fact, I love doing it so much that I have to tell Google to remind me to get up and move.
You probably already guessed what it was from the title of this post. But just in case you scrolled too fast, here it is – Cross Stitch.
I became a huge fan many years ago when I observed a co-worker and begged her to show me what she was working on.
Since then, I have created many projects, so many, in fact, that I need to rotate them because I do not have enough space to hang them all.
Now, you may think that picking this new hobby up will be simple; however, you may not realize that having the right supplies and tools is essential.
These are some of the basic cross stitch supplies that many cross stitchers invest in:
- Needle Threader
- Thread conditioner to keep thread from tangling
- Thread or Floss Organizers
- Bobbin Winder
- Seam Ripper with a sharp tip for picking out stitching mistakes
- Embroidery Scissors with stainless steel blades
- Plastic Bobbins
- Wooden Hoops
- Embroidery Hoops
- Cross Stitch Needles
- Stitching Bag
- Extra Needles with a blunt tip (often called tapestry needles)
- Beginning Cross Sitch Patterns
- Aida Fabric
- DMC Threads
- Specialty Threads
- Cross Stitch Kits
If you are already overwhelmed, there is good news, you don’t necessarily need all of these items. Because I am slightly obsessed in my cross stitch life, I have acquired most of these, but your cross stitch journey may look different. It is up to you to discover how deep into this beautiful craft you would like to go. Read on to discover seven of my personal favorite essential tools for cross stitch projects!
Scroll Frame
A scroll frame is a great choice for holding fabric tension while working on a project. These frames come in various sizes, and widths, and often with adjustable sidebars, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your project. Not only do they provide stability and ease of stitching, but they also help prevent fabric from getting wrinkled or creased.
Get American Dream Scroll Frames (My favorite)
Fabric Tensioners for Cross Stitch
If you have been stitching for any length of time, you know that as you stitch, your fabric can become loose while working on a project. These fabric tensioners do a great job of keeping excess fabric nice and tight for stitching.
To use, clamp the clamps onto your fabric, then wrap the velcro straps around the sidebar and pull until taught. I have several sets of these (because I work on multiple projects at a time). I bought my sets several years ago, and the brand that I have is no longer available.
Click on the link below for the next best thing.
Stitching Stand
The best way to achieve a perfectly stitched masterpiece is by investing in a high quality stitching stand. This stand is a good idea for smaller projects as well as larger projects and the variety of sizes in between.
Not only does a stitching stand provide comfort and stability, but it also frees up both of your hands, allowing you to focus solely on the stitch at hand. A stitching stand can also help prevent eye strain and back pain, allowing you to stitch for more extended periods. Many styles are available, so you can get just the right one especially suited for you.
This frame stand is hands down my favorite stitching accessory. Below is a picture of the stand I use, and you can click on the link below to purchase it from Etsy. Mine is made from high-quality wood and is completely adjustable. I’m not sure how I ever stitched without it. It is worth every penny.
Magnifying Glass
If you suffer from eye strain or like to stitch on linen, even weave fabrics, or do small projects, a magnifying glass will be one of your best friends. You can get them in floor stand models or ones that clip onto your stitching frame. I have both and decide which one to use depending on my project.
Needle Minders
If you are an avid stitcher, you probably have many needles. Where do you keep them? On a pin cushion? Stuck in your shirt? Or just lying around? Well, magnetic needle minders are a great option for keeping track of needles of all different sizes. It is a magnet that has a pretty design that you use on top of your needle project.
The magnet helps hold the needle while adjusting fabric or taking a break to do something else. Using a needle minder ensures that your needles never get lost or wind up sticking someone accidentally.
Ott Light
What can I say about Ott lights? Well, for one thing, I think everyone should have one because everyone can benefit from good lighting. They are helpful for crafts, reading, woodworking projects, home improvement projects, music practice, and so on.
I love these lamps, and they come in floor lamps, table lamps, clip-ons, and various sizes. There is one to fit everyone’s needs. There are even book lamps for those who like to read in bed at night. I have 5 of them, and I cannot imagine working without them.
You can find them at craft stores, online, or in office supply stores. Here is a photo of my desk lamp that I use with my sewing machine and my stitching stand.
Cross Stitch Key
This handy little tool is one of those new products that you only know you need once you get it. When you get it, you will wonder how you ever accomplished a stitching project without it. So what is it? It is the following:
- A ruler
- A cloth counter – an easy-count guideline
- A reference guide
- Needle size guide
- Floss strand guide
- A corner guide for determining the exact point of where to start your project
So, if you have purchased cross stitch fabric for a project that you were going to stitch but needed to remember what that project was, where you stored your other supplies or forgot what size Aida cloth you have. Hold up this tool and count the stitches; then, you will know what size Aida cloth you have, and you will be able to cut your fabric for your project accurately.
In addition, this is a great tool for being able to determine the number of strands of floss that you need to use and the needle size based on your chosen stitching fabric.
This is one of those cross stitch gadgets that is so useful that I’m sure it has uses I have yet to discover. Get yours through the link below.
There You Have It – My 7 Favorite Cross Stitch Tools and Accessories
To sum up, cross-stitching is a wonderful hobby accessible to everyone. Whether you’re just starting or have been stitching for years, having the right tools and accessories can make all the difference.
The seven items this post covers help ensure you have everything you need to achieve your stitching goals. From foolproof needle minders and scroll frames to floor stands and magnifying glasses, these are all must-haves if you’re serious about Cross Stitch.
All these great tools may even spark some creative inspiration as well! If you feel overwhelmed while getting started, taking it one step at a time and equipping yourself with helpful tools helps to ease the stress.
Crafting is supposed to be fun; why not take full advantage of what’s available? Now that you can access this list of essential accessories, it’s time to get creative!
Do you have a favorite tool? Or maybe you have developed some new techniques. Let me know in the comments below – I am always interested in learning about what others use for their stitching projects, and I would love to see your cross stitch creations. Happy Stitching!
Other great ideas for your next project from Get Up and Live Life:
