Guide to Materials

Thread
Here is a list of the different threads I have used throughout my designs and my reasons for choosing them. As I use more in my designs, I will add them to the list!
Generally speaking the two main brands of threads that designers use are DMC and Anchor, although others are available. I prefer to use DMC six stranded cotton threads because, for me, they have the best ‘silky’ quality and are least likely to fluff when used. They have an excellent colour range and have regular introductions of new colours.
It is possible to use conversion charts to change thread brands, but I would strongly suggest using the brand recommended for the design. The designer has, after all, stitched the chart with her preferred thread and she knows best!
Never be tempted to mix the same colour from two different brands. They may look the same on the skein, but once stitched, the colour change, although subtle, is noticeable!

Metallic Thread and Blending Filament
Metallic threads can be fine, stranded threads or thicker non-divisible threads. Using metallics on their own add a lovely sparkle to a design, but blending them with stranded cottons gives a more subtle effect. Blending filaments are always used with one or two strands of cotton thread. The chart you are following will tell you how many strands to use and whether or not they are blended.

I have used a lot of the Rainbow Gallery Petite Treasure Braid. I love this thread! It is a very fine metallic thread which can be used on its own (non divisible) or blended with other threads. I have found it’s easier to sew with than other blending filaments because it isn’t very slippery. It comes in a great range of colours.

DMC Coton Perle
This is a non divisible thread and is great for using in Blackwork projects, because it offers another thickness to the backstitch, which gives greater depth to the design. I have used Coton Perle No.8 alongside one strand of 6-stranded cotton to great effect in the Blackwork Welcome Sampler, as well as Coton Perle No.12, which is slightly thincker, on other Blackwork designs.

Beads
I have used Mill Hill Glass Seed and Antique Seed beads in a lot of my designs. There is a huge range of colours, finishes and sizes to choose from. They are a little more expensive than other brands but, because they have such a great quality of finish, I feel they offer good value for money. Economy packs are available too.
If you attend craft fairs it’s a good idea to look out for bead stalls. There are a great range of sizes, shapes and lengths and a huge range of colours available.
It is better to stick to the beads recommended for a cross stitch design, but if you are tempted by an alternative brand, just make sure the size of bead is the same as given on the chart or the scale of the design may be spoiled.

Needles
Most cross stitch charts suggest using size 24 or 26 tapestry needles. These are perfect for working on aida fabric as they are slightly blunt, which makes them simple to pass through the fabric. They also have a large eye, which makes threading easy.
A beading needle is always necessary for sewing on most small beads. These needles are finer and longer to make it easy to thread to beads, but, be warned, they are very sharp!