StitchyTube-torial: How to Cross Stitch Faster with the Sewing Method 

Finally a sewing stitch tutorial that’s easy to understand! And the video tips were useful too. I had no idea the playback speed could be slowed down! That’s useful on this video and will be on many others. Many people go too fast when demonstrating a technique and replaying it isn’t helpful at times. Even the tic-tac-toe imagery when stitching on linen is very helpful. I haven’t tried that yet, but baby steps…LOL

This is the only video I’ve found where I could actually see what you were doing. Most people go way too fast with the stitches. Thanks for making a video that is so helpful.

This is the best tutorial I have seen for the sewing method! Thank you.

That was excellent, Theresa. I was born a stab stitcher, and I'll probably die one, but I would definitely refer others to this video if they wanted to try it--clear, concise, demonstrated, fun.

Your demonstration was perfect! I have been stitching in hand since 1986 when I took a class with Darlene O’Steen and she showed us how to stitch in hand. I have tried frames, etc., but they are so uncomfortable to me and all the fussing around with turning them, re-tightening them and getting re-situated after you finish a thread frustrates me. I agree that good tension is key and stitchers will get better at their tension with practice. You are correct about when stitching over-one, the sewing method does not make the stitches lay correctly, but you can still stitch from the top of your work using the stab method. Thank you for sharing “our” method with the stitching community, Theresa-you did a great job explaining it.

I just found you I’m coming back after a long hiatus. I always used the poke method. I’m going to try this . Thank you !

I have to agree with you about starting my rows at the bottom and working upwards in order to produce nicer stitches. I JUST discovered this and it`s because when I work up I am coming up for a new stitch in the upper right corner(which has no sitches yet in it) and then going down in the lower left, which is going “against” the stitch below that is already in that hole (as Jan Hicks referred to them as “clean” and dirty” holes). When I try to come UP in a hole that already has 2 legs of 2 different crosses in it (a dirty hole”) I risk coming up IN one of those existing threads, causing it to split and the stitch then looks bad. So to sum up, come up in holes where no stitches already exist and go down in holes where stitches already exist.

Great video. I used to use the sewing method but after carpal tunnel and trigger finger surgery both hands are really weak. I now need a scroll frame and floor stand. I stitch slowly but tell myself it is ok because I am burning more calories by reaching up and down under my fabric for each stitch. There is always a positive. 😊

I learned to stitch in hand in the 70's but got caught up in the q-snap frenzy in the 90's and never enjoyed stitching as much after that. I didn't realize until I watched your video that the enjoyment I miss is stitching in hand using the sewing method. Thank you for a great tutorial which I have already watched 3 times. I watch you faithfully and look forward to your posts.

Awesome tubtorial! I use this method with a hoop or frame and you are absolutely correct on loosening the fabric tension. Works like a charm! Thanks again for sharing with this fantastic community! Suzette x

You have the gift of teaching. You made this so simple and clear. I think everyone should give other stitching methods a try, if you don't explore or test the waters, how do you know that something will or will not work for you, speed up your stitching. I sometimes us a hoop (small) and occasionally a Q-snap, I also stitch in hand. I love the feeling of being unencumbered when stitching in hand. I'm a life long learner at age 78, have enjoyed every step of the journey. Thanks for an excellent video. You're a natural in front of the camera.

Fantastic, thanks. Definitely starting when I have a new start. Life is a continual learning process, isn't it!!! You are a natural teacher!

Thank you! This is the way I learned many (43) years ago from a Danish friend. I have always second guessed my method when stitching with friends who used frames and hoops. I go back and forth from hoops to hand sewing and I honestly can’t tell the difference in my stitches. I really like the Danish method of hand sewing the best. Your stitching is beautiful!

Thanks for taking the time to post this tutorial. I stitch in hand using the sewing method. I do prefer to stitch on fabric that isn't quite so soft as I have found I have issues with my tension so I like stitching on fabric that has a little more "structure." I totally agree with you - stitch the way you like and are comfortable with - what makes you happy!

Great video Theresa!! Thank you so much for doing this tutorial. I have dabbled in hand sewing a few times but never really pursued it, however, I would like to stitch faster so I am going to give this a try on my current project. I stitch using a hoop right now and I can see by your demonstration that not having to unscrew the hoop and repositioning it will save me lots of time. Thanks again Theresa, I always look forward to your videos.

Great tutorial! This is exactly how I stitch, except I do use a hoop. Years ago I took a class in how to quilt by hand and this is the method I use for my cross stitching. I have the fabric in the hoop usually pretty tightly, (I only tend to loosen it if the fabric is especially stiff). I use my finger underneath to push up on the linen slightly, right above the stitch I'm making and it helps to guide the needle back up where I want it to go. The hoop helps me with my thread tension, which does tend to be on the tight side, and also helps to keep my left hand relaxed. I'm commenting here because I think some people don't like the sewing method because they don't like stitching in hand. So my testimonial is that, as you said, you can still use the sewing method and keep your hoop or frame or Q snaps! Thank you for your videos, I am so glad that you are feeling better and that you've come back to the stitching community. I have so many of your beautiful sampler charts, and I look forward to buying more of them!

Thank you for doing this tutorial! I usually use a Q snaps but the piece I'm working on is really close to the corner. So I pulled it off the frame and started stitching and found myself doing the sewing method. I love it! Inspired by Flosstube

That was fantastic! Thank you, thank you, thank you ❤️ It looks so easy and logical when you do the sewing method. I started using the sewing method about a month ago and still struggle, but I’m determined to master it one day, lol. I just so love to free myself from my floorstand, scroll rods, and q-snaps...it’s just too time consuming to start and get settled when I want to stitch. I’d like to just grab my project and get going and I think I can do this much easier without all the extra tools. Again, thanks for your demonstration! You got me all motivated 😍👍🏼🤗😙!

I was watching Priscilla and Chelsea on FlossTube, they suggested watching how you stitch-in-hand. Your tutorial was great, I’m going to give it a try. So many beautiful patterns to stitch and not enough time. Have a nice day.🐝

Thank you very much. This has been the most comprehensive hand stitching video I’ve seen and I’ve viewed many. I’m now hand stitching away….😃

Thank you!! I love that you don’t make anyone feel that there is only one way. Your videos have helped me since being so long since I have cross stitched. Looking forward to more videos.

I am going to watch this over and over until I get this. I want to learn this cross stitch way so bad. TY for your time in making this video.

Great tube-torial!!! You did a great job showing how it is done and just how easy it is! More tutorials would be awesome! Thanks and happy stitching!

Thank you thank you thank you! I finally get it!!!! Love that you start on Aida cloth, much easier to see. And your stitching is so easy to follow….the best part for my brain is “upper right, lower right……upper left, lower left”. Whoohoo! Your tube-torial is the Best!!!!!!

Thanks for showing this method slowly. I’ve watched other tutorials and they were fast and I was all “what”! 💕

No rules. Do what works for you...I agree. I also enjoy seeing how others go about their stitching. I find it interesting,. Thank for this tutorial. You did great job.

Best tutorial I have seen on the sewing method. You did an excellent job. I know the sewing method. I switch on and off. I stitch with frames with two hands also. I do feel if you were taught this method the first time you stitched it is easy to do. I am sure a lot of people will learn from this tutorial. So many ways to do things.🌻

Just getting back to cross stitching and very interested in the sewing by hand method. Your video has been very informative. Thanks.

Thank you Theresa! I enjoy alternating some projects by using the sewing method to give my wrists a break. Always enjoy your videos. I just finished the "Let You Heart Be Light" project from Katrina Boyd's Retreat! Such a joy to stitch. Blessings to you....Renee

Hi, thanks for posting. I've 'accidentally' stitched with sewing method, with small patterns in hand. But I like your logic, I am loosening my hoop project now to try it. To me, every pattern is an opportunity to learn something new! 😁

Wow! I have watched all of your flosstube videos, but didn't realize you had tutorials as well. I am back into cross stitch after 19 years and am so overwhelmed by the new floss, linen and designers! This video is so well done. I have heard a lot of talk about stitching in hand and have watched a few videos, but yours was so easy to follow and the close up on both types of fabric was very helpful. Thank you for willingly sharing your knowledge with me! Congratulations on your recent decision to leave the corporate 9-5 and follow your passion! You are very gifted designer and your spirit of a teacher is very apparent. I would hope our paths would cross (no pun intended) some day!!!

I’ve been using sewing method for years. I don’t remember where I learned about it or when I started using it. Perhaps I transferred it over from the crewel embroidery I sometimes did at that time. There was no Flosstube when I was first doing it. I find the rhythm of the sewing method makes this hobby so relaxing. I was distracted from stitching for years with work, family responsibilities and volunteer activities. I’m so glad to be back and so happy that people like you put together these videos to keep us motivated and inspired. Happy stitching everyone.

I’ve wanted to try IN HAND, I’ve watched many many videos and yours made the most since and easiest to understand . Thank you

Oh my goodness! When I heard people doing the sewing method I could not figure it out. Thank you so much for the awesome tutorial! Tomorrow’s list...sewing method!

Lol. That's how I was taught over 30 years ago. I thought it was going to be a fantastic video with a different way to how I normally do it!

I also use the sewing method in hand but I sew the opposite direction. I sew from right to left and cross each x at a time, although on occasion I will sew a half and then come back and cross. When I sew right to left I go from lower left to upper right, then across (underneath ) to upper left and then lower right. And yes I'm right handed. I think because I learned to garment sew first this is more natural motion like hemming or basting. But I think it's so interesting how each of us does what's the most comfortable motion. Love love love your videos and I really enjoyed seeing how you stitch.

You did a great job with your camera work! I stitch on a frame with my right hand under and left hand on top and pull back in forth. I rest the frame in my lap with the right lower cradled in the crook of my right elbow. It also helps to prop the left side of the frame against something and I use a floor stand. Not sure I described that clearly but it works really well for me. You mentioned discount frames in a previous video. I discovered Hobby Lobby's a couple years ago and got one for $11 that was originally $113. I found 5 this week so thanks for the reminder! I would love to see you do a framing tutorial. Framing is so expensive and my diys are a mess. Thanks so much for the time and effort you put into your videos!

This changes everything. No wonder my piece has been taking me ages to complete. Than you so much!

Could you possibly do a tutorial of how to sew one stitch at a time?

I’ve watched several videos on stitching in hand and yours is BY FAR the easiest to understand and gave me confidence enough to try it. Thank you

I actually knew how to do the sewing method and it is the method I use for x-stitch. But I can't believe it! Finally, someone showed me how to actually stitch on linen. A tic-tac-toe board. I get it now. I can related to that. Thank you so much. I just might be able to tackle it with that information.

So excited to see this video! You did an awesome tube-torial and looking forward to more....please!! You make it look so darn easy and your stitching looks beautiful. I stitch mostly on 40 ct because I also love the delicate look it gives. I stitch 2 handed with qsnaps or scroll rods and that was extremely awkward at first so I had to practice a lot. But I would love to have the freedom of no frames and stands and just pick up a project and stitch. I'm going to practice, practice, practice. Thanks for doing this video Theresa!

Thank you “sew” much for teaching the sewing method. You’re an amazing and talented teacher. Now I just need you to teach me how to quilt so I can live up to my last name. 😀.

Oh You have showed me the Best of the Best video of sewing method for cross stitch!!!!!!!!!

Since watching Katie Strachan I no longer use the sewing method - stitches aren't as neat and crisp and clean - yes it takes longer but am much happier with the look - which hopefully will be on the walls a long time so would rather stitch fewer pieces which look better than lots of projects which don't look so good.

Thank you so much for sharing with us Teresa. I love hearing how other people do things. I was told once that if you steal from one person you are a plagiarist, but if you steal from everyone you’re brilliant. I️ appreciate all the effort it takes to make these videos. Happy stitching and happy new year!

Thank you for a great video. I’m so happy that you shared, we have to find the method that works best for each of us. What works for one doesn’t work for everyone. Have a lovely day!

This video was very helpful. I have been doing most of my stitching in hand, but struggled with the sewing method. Your tips really helped as I was stitching along with you. Started out a little slow, but as I am doing it more, it is becoming easier and faster. Thanks for taking the time to share this video 😸

Thx so much for taking the time to do this tutorial. I did a couple of cross stitch pieces when my kids were little..but have recently come back to it. When I did it a long time ago I stitched on Aida...I love the look of linen and am nervous, however, anxious to try it. I will definitely be trying this method. Thx again for doing this video...

I've always wondered about the claim that we must use a frame for cross stitch - I find I always get so discouraged cross stitching I never finish most of my efforts. I've done the sewing method, but felt guilty because the instructions always says to work on frames. I love the idea of 'new rules!'

I've been doing this method with Aida for as long as I can remember. Thought I was the only one. Thanks for sharing!

Great tutorial! I’ve always wanted to stitch in hand, but haven’t quite been able to master it. Your tutorial was well illustrated and explained. I have a tremor in my dominant hand, so I use a qsnap or scroll rod on a floor frame. It gives me the stability I need. On the frame I use a combination of the sewing method, and the two handed method. For me the sewing method works well if I’m doing lines or blocks of colour, while I use the two handed method for more complicated areas. I’ll never be fast ☹️, but I love every second of my stitching time! Thanks so much Theresa.

This is the best tutorial on stitching in hand that I have seen so far. Thank you so much!

I have been searching on RU-vid for a comprehensive video on stitching in hand and your's is excellent. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this :)

Great job! I've stitched in hand for years, and find it easier than a frame. Thanks for sharing!

Great video Theresa! I taught myself to stitch doing the sewing method. I love it. I’m a little bit opposite from you. I start in the upper right and go down to the lower left. :) I just wanted to let you know how much I’m enjoying all your videos. They are so informative and so interesting. Keep up the good work!

I can't thank you enough for all that you share. I always feel ready to tackle a new project or to get my stitch bug going again. I look forward to all that you have to say. Thanks, Suzy

thank you so much! I tried this the other day and it was a complete fail. So now with your help i will give it a go again! Great video!

This was so helpful! I’ve been stitching a long time, but I never tried this method because it was confusing to me. I understand now thanks to your tutorial. I’m gonna give this a try for sure!

Thank you! Thank you! This method finally makes sense. The angle you used, and the slowed down timing as you explained what you were doing was perfect. Now to put it into practice!

Thank you for giving permission to use the sewing method. Im only very new to cross stitch, but have sewn all my life and went immediately to the sewing method as I found using a hoop and the up and down method very awkward for me. However, all my friends who have been cross stitchers for years have tried to discourage me from using the sewing method, but finding it much easier, I have continued to use it. Thank you for your video. Cheers,

This is the way I learned it when I was young. I didn't have hoops than and everybody that stitched at that time did it this way. Now I do it with little pieces and big pieces I do in hoops or qsnaps.

Your demo makes me think sewing in hand will be doable for me. Also, I think now I will take the “leap” and try sewing on linen using the sewing in hand method. I’ve always been skittish to try linen, but I think I’ll give it a try. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your talent with us!

Thank you, thank you, what a wonderful tutorial.......I love this stitching method, I get agitated with the poke method, too slow, I tried doing the sewing method but seemed to go wrong direction, this has helped tremendously.....I like to stitch fast, and I’ve only really stitched on 32 ct linen, but I’m ordering a 40 ct linen from 123 stitch to see if I like better.......can’t wait for more tutorials, you did great!! An idea would be framing using th3 spacers, I’ve never used them....dying DMC floss, your method of teacstaining fabric......

SO glad I stumbled on this. Somehow! You are like sitting down with an old friend and reminiscing. Love that you do rescue, stitch, owned a shop and your attitude about doing the floss tube videos, your philosophy on the "no apology zone". I adore old samplers and stitching the reproductions. (I immediately watched your first tuber). Great job.....will anxiously look forward to your future episodes and catching up with the ones I've missed. xox from Texas

Great Tutorial! I used this method, but mostly share your thoughts in that is not a right or wrong way to stitch, you do you, and if that make you happy, is ok 👍 Hugs!

Watched this video a few times and things finally clicked. I also want to "sew all the things" so hope once I'm used to the new technique I can see finished faster. Many thanks!

This was the stitch in hand video I’ve been looking for! I got to see how to start and how to move to another row easily. Thank you for making this video. Very well done! I hope you keep making more videos.

I just tried the sewing method... OMG I’m hooked! Thank you!

Great tutorial! Love your sweet napping stitching buddy! Your tic tac toe board description of linen is perfect!

I have been stitching since 1988. I have always stitched in hand. Love it ! Great video

Love the sewing method...the best tutorial for this method...thank you, Teresa!

Great video! Thank you!

This was so helpful! Thank you!

This is the clearest and most helpful video I have seen that demonstrates the sewing method! Thank you! I'm going to try it on a smaller project tomorrow morning! :-)

This was so very helpful!

I’ve been stitching in hand for quite awhile. It’s so much faster; even when you’re railroading you can stitch in hand. Love this video. Keep’em coming!

Great teaching

Great tutorial THANKS!

I have watched many stitching in hand videos and your is the best one ever!!! Thank you so much and God bless you❤️

Amazing. I watched 2 other videos showing this method and I was lost. You’re video is outstanding. I’ll be trying this tomorrow. Thank you

I'm going to give in hand sewing method a whirl...thank you for the great advice & video 😊

Loved your video, it was very helpful 😊

Fantastic video!!!! Great demo!!!

This has helped me so much!

Very helpful tutorial, thank you! 😊

Excellent tutorial! Thank you.

Thank you! Very helpful video!

I love your fur family!

Yes good work

I have been looking for a good video on the sewing method and your is by far, the best one I have found. Excellent information. I will definitely try this method. Thank you.

Absolutely in love with the quality of your close ups! Many tutorials have a real problem there, can't wait to see more tubetorials from you. I have no ideas on those btw, just saying, it'll be a real treat anyhow.

Thank you so much!

Thank you for showing me this. I will try this when I get a chance.

Thank you for this tutorial. I will try it.

Thank you for this! Just finding out about this…wow! What a difference it makes 😀

Wow! This is awesome thanks so much for the tutorial!

I know this is an "older" video, just wanted to say your stitches with 1 strand on the 40 count are absolutely beautiful. I am new to the craft and not sure I could see the fabric to do it on anything beyond 18 count. LOL! I may try stitch-in-hand one day. Thanks!

Thank you!!! You explained it perfectly!

Thanks Theresa