Counted cross stitch might be the simplest form of embroidery because all it needs is for you to know how to read a pattern, count a fabric, thread a needle and make a cross.  The biggest question is “Do you have the time and talent to complete and finish the whole design”? If your answer is NO, consider having the work done by some cross stitchers around the world who enjoy stitching and sell their completed or finished cross stitch pieces here on Ebay. You still will be enjoying your completed cross stitch piece possibly at an even lower cost than if you did it yourself or unknowingly, you might have just helped a mother or lady earned a little income from her hobby when you purchase an item.

The following are some basic things to look for on a seller’s description when buying a completed cross stitch.

Is it a Counted Cross Stitch or Stamped Cross Stitch?
Counted Cross Stitch has the pattern printed on paper with a grid format and will be stitched on a piece of cloth that is unmarked. The cross stitcher has to count every block of the fabric to complete the design. Stamped Cross Stitch design has colored patterns stamped directly on the fabric. The stitcher just needs to match the color on the fabric with that of  the thread, thus there is no need to count.

Is it Handmade or Machine Embroidered Cross Stitch?
A handmade cross stitch is time consuming and is a big factor in pricing the completed design compared to a completed piece done by an embroidery machine which helps the job gets done faster. Handmade is more preferred by real cross stitch fans.

Is the given title or designer name correct? 
A correct title or designer name tells you that a seller is knowledgeable about the products being auctioned. It is helpful especially for buyers if they are buying pieces to complete a collection from one designer, e.g. Mirabilia (Nora Corbett) or Lavender and Lace (Marilyn Leavitt-Imblum). However, some sellers choose to give a title based on the design, such as a lovely Fairy, enchanting Mermaid, a regal Queen or a jolly Santa . 

Is the design stitched on Aida, Linen or Evenweave Fabric?  
Aida is the type of fabric that has tiny holes between the blocks where a stitcher makes an X and yields to a more regular X pattern when completed. Evenweave fabric as the name suggests has even or equal weaves in both directions. Linen is known for its thread weave irregularities. Among these three, Aida fabric is tougher and holds up well when washed.

What is the thread count of the fabric?
The thread count is the stitches per inch of the fabric which determines the size of the finished piece and the number of strands of thread/floss used. The common thread count for Aida cloth is from 8 to 20 to the inch and usually uses 2-3 strands. Linen and evenweave fabrics have 22 count, or 28 or 36 count and usually a stitcher has to count up and down “over two” threads to stitch. Remember that the higher the number, the finer the weave.

What are the threads used? 
These are the two most commonly available brands all over the world, DMC and Anchor. DMC floss is more widely used but there is also an Anchor alternative on some patterns. Both are excellent products, durable and colorfast but with a little variance to their color palette. So, for a more uniformed look, it is best to use one brand for the entire project. Some of the more complex designs include embellishments such as the use of metallic threads (e.g. Kreinik), beads (e.g. Mill Hill) and specialty threads. While these embellishments add color, fun and depth to the completed cross stitch, they also add to the material cost and degree of difficulty of the piece

Some stitchers experiment color conversions from the original colors cited on the pattern and that takes talent. A stitcher might decide to convert an original blue color to pink, green, red or coral color to create more depth or to match a particular wedding theme.

Are the measurements laid out? 
Take note of the measurements of the design itself and that of the cloth. This way you can tell how much allowance is left for framing. A good and honest seller should note on the description any tight allowances of the piece.

Are the pictures enough? 
Are the pictures included in the listing that of the actual item being auctioned or is it a stock photo of previously completed piece? Is the photo from the designer’s website or scanned from picture on the pattern used? Sometimes, seller would describe that a piece is stitched on BLUE fabric, yet the photo shows a completed piece in WHITE fabric. This is acceptable if such discrepancy is noted on the listing but if pictures do not match the actual item described, it is better to ask for actual photos to avoid some surprises later on.

How will the item be packaged and shipped? 
Check the listing whether the item has been washed and ironed to save you time and money. It is also better if the item will be shipped rolled in a tube so there will be minimal folds or creases and at the same time, you have a tube where you can securely store your cross stitch while it is waiting to be framed by yourself or professionally.

I hope this guide will aid you in what things to look for in a listing when buying a completed cross stitch here on Ebay. Take note that most sellers use Completed Cross Stitch or Finished Cross Stitch on their listings, so use both keywords in your search to generate more great cross stitch finds.

If you like the pictures shown here, please visit my One Stitch Shop store for a great selection of completed and finished cross stitch for all occasions.  If you don't see what you are looking for, just ask for we also accept custom orders. Thank you.