Buying Aida Cloth Online

Aida cloth is an open weave, even weave cotton fabric that is primarily used for cross stitching. It comes in a variety of colors including, but not limited to: white, antique white, ecru, tan, blue, pink, oatmeal and peach. It also comes in many count sizes, the most popular sizes are generally 11, 14, and 18 count. Aida cloth comes is sizes ranging from 6 to 24. The count size refers to the number of holes per inch. For example, 11 count aida cloth contains 11 holes per inch. The higher the count the finer the stitch on your finished cross stitch piece. Aida cloth is generally sold in various sizes. the most popular sizes are pre cut sheets of 12 x 18, rolls of 15 x 18, and sometimes you can be lucky enough to be able to buy it by the yard. Aida cloth is stiff enough for most people to stitch a project on without using a hoop. However, for you first project or two you might want to use a hoop until you get used to the stitching.

I have been finding it harder to find craft supplies in my locals stores so I had to turn to shopping online. I was pleasantly surprised to find a large selection at both Amazon and eBay. As a matter of fact these two websites are the ones I shop the most. However there are many different websites that offer aida cloth in various colors and sizes.

Among my favorites is the Joann's website. This is part of Joann's Fabrics. They have a good selection and ship quickly.

Another webstore I have shopped is All Craft Supplies. They also have a good selection and ship quickly.

The Find website carries a lot of Charles Craft Aida Cloth. They have a good selection of count, size and color.

The 3 websites I mentioned above have a wonderful array of other craft items and are all worth a visit. They are quick to ship and reasonable in price.

http://www.cross-stitch-academy.com/

This website has a collection of free adorable cross stitch patterns that are sure to delight the beginner. They also include a great little section called "Beginning Basics". Any new cross stitcher will benefit from visiting this website

http://crossstitch.about.com/od/patternsfromyourguide/ig/Cross-Stitch-for-Beginners-/

When you make a visit to this website you will find many delightful patterns to choose from. They are easy to work and come with terrific instructions.

http://www.freepatternsonline.com/xspatterns.htm

This wonderful website offers a terrific array of easy to work patterns made especially for the beginning cross stitcher. Everyone should be able to find a patterns here that is just perfect for them.

http://www.maurer-stroh.com/beginners.html

If you are looking for a floral cross stitch pattern that is not only easy to follow but free you have come to the right place. You will find several floral patterns that will be perfect for any project you have in mind.

Let me start out by saying "I love to cross stitch". I could do it 24 hours a day if my hands and eyes would last that long.

To me sitting and relaxing (benefit 1) with my feet up and a piece of cross stitch in my hand is one of my favorite positions.

Benefit 2 - while you are stitching you need to focus on what you are doing. Unless you can focus one something and think about other things at the same time you can't think about anything but what you are doing (benefit 3).

Benefit 4 - while stitching, the repetitive motion tends to calm your body and mind. Not only that, the repetition of movement tends to give you a feeling of peace and wellbeing (benefit 5).

So, to wrap this up, cross stitch seems to be an all around stress reducer. It's my favorite stress reducer for sure.