3 Important Tips for Stitching with Hand Dyed Floss

Should you browse pictures of finished cross stitch patterns about the web, no doubt you've seen the stunning images of projects stitched with hand dyed floss. Simply because with the variety inside the coloring from the floss, this can cross stitch projects some incredible and unexpected results.

Hand dyed floss is created just as the name implies – it’s dyed by hand.  As a result of this, you can find variations inside the quantity of colour throughout the thread. Some variations can be subtle, while some may be a large contrast.  Some also have much more than 1 colour per thread, which with the proper cross stitch patterns, will generate awesome final results.

When stitching with these stunning hand dyed cross stitch fibers, there's an essential note that should be produced. Many stitchers typically will make all of their stitches going one way at one time, after which return to finish their crosses.  With hand dyed thread, stitching in this manner will give an effect that seems ‘muddied’.  Much a lot more desirable outcomes could be achieved by finishing each “X” as you go.  Stitch both legs at once and then move onto the following “X”.  This helps maintain the range in the shade of thread all within the same stitch.  

There is certainly an additional note that must be made about stitching with hand dyed threads.  Numerous stitchers use a “loop” approach to lessen the amount of excess thread on 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 of the color variance will probably be following to every other.  This will similarly produce a mixing of the colors in an undesirable way.

A single final note about hand dyed floss is the colorfastness.  Most hand dyed threads are not colorfast, so it isn't suggested to wash your stitching task when you are finished stitching.  The result will be that the color from the floss will bleed onto your fabric and other floss and your stitching task might be ruined.  

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