This guide is for those of you new to the world of cross stitch, or who just want to try something new.  The stitching world has progressed beyond sold color threads. There are many kinds of over dyed or hand dyed threads out there.  These threads are beautiful to look at, but not many know how to use them in their cross stitch projects. There are many methods of working with these variegated threads.

The first is the Stripe Effect. This is good to use when you want a striped, geometric, or pattern effect. Cut a length of over dyed thread. Separate out 2 strands. Do one complete X at a time.

The second is the Shading Effect. This is good to use when you want a soft, subtle shading effect. Cut a length of over dyed thread. Cut a coordinating length of solid color thread. Separate out one strand of each. Put together. Stitch by row-work the row in one direction, then back in the other direction.

The third is the Tweed Effect. This is good to use when you're stitching flowers, leaves, or fur. Cut a length of over dyed thread. Separate out 2 strands. Match these strands end to end. Stitch by row-work the row in one direction, then back in the other direction.

One more bit of advice-check your pattern before buying your over dyed threads. Just like yarn, over dyed threads have dye lots. Most are very similar, where you really can't tell the difference, but some are not. A good rule of thumb-if you're not sure if you need one or two skeins, order two! If you don't need it, it can always be used for another project. If you do need it, you'll be glad you have it, as you can be assured of having the same dye lot.

Youthful Hands Needle Crafts carries loads of brands of over dyed and hand dyed threads for cross stitch and needlepoint. Check our eBay store for Gentle Art, Weeks Dye Works, Carrie's Creations, The Dye Is Cast, Treenway, Pure Palette, and Needle Necessities threads. Once you try these beautfiul threads, you'll be hooked!

Happy Stitching!