Embroidery vs. cross stitch: Which craft is more relaxing?

Are you searching for a relaxing hobby and wondering whether embroidery or cross stitch is the better choice? Both needlework crafts offer a peaceful way to unwind and tap into your creativity. Embroidery gives you the freedom to design flowing, organic patterns, while cross stitch offers a calming rhythm through structured, X-shaped stitches. This guide compares embroidery and cross stitch to help you choose the right stress-relieving craft for your lifestyle.

Whether you’re new to needlework or looking to deepen your practice, learning the differences between embroidery and cross stitch can make all the difference. Embroidery allows for creative freedom with various stitch types, while cross stitch uses a precise, grid-based method that’s easy to follow. Read on to discover which one suits your relaxation goals best.

Quick Comparison

• Embroidery: Flexible and artistic, with room for creativity and personal expression.

• Cross Stitch: Repetitive and structured, ideal for meditative crafting sessions.

• Top Fabrics: Embroidery works best on linen or cotton; cross stitch favors Aida cloth, especially Zweigart brand.

• Popular Threads: Both crafts rely on DMC Stranded Cotton for consistent quality and vibrant colors.

• Needle Types: Embroidery uses sharp needles; cross stitch uses blunt tapestry needles.

• Hoop Sizes: A 6” to 7” embroidery hoop is ideal for maintaining tension in both crafts.

What Is Embroidery?

It is the decorative art of stitching patterns onto fabric using thread and a needle. This versatile craft includes various stitches like backstitch, satin stitch, and French knots. You can work freestyle or follow a pattern, making it great for both beginners and experienced crafters.

Embroidery can be done by hand or with a machine. Hand embroidery is personal and expressive, while machine embroidery allows for more detailed, repetitive designs. Both offer a satisfying way to create artwork, embellish clothing, or personalize textiles.

What Is Cross Stitch?

Cross stitch is a form of counted-thread embroidery where you make X-shaped stitches on fabric. It’s often used to create pixel-like images and follows a specific pattern, making it a beginner-friendly craft with consistent results.

Cross stitch typically uses Aida fabric, tapestry needles, and embroidery floss. The stitches are methodical and uniform, making the process predictable and soothing. Kits are widely available, and patterns range from simple to intricate, so you can scale your projects with your skills.

Must-Have Supplies for Each Craft

Getting started is easy once you have the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need for embroidery and cross stitch.

Embroidery Essentials

• Fabric: Cotton, linen, wool, or silk. Cotton is the most beginner-friendly.

• Thread: DMC threads are a top choice for their durability and color variety. Pearl cotton adds texture.

• Needles: Sizes 1–12 depending on fabric thickness; size 12 is great for fine work.

• Hoop: A 6”–7” embroidery hoop helps maintain fabric tension.

• Other Tools: Disappearing ink pens, scissors, tweezers, seam rippers, thimbles, and a good light.

Embroidery kits are a great way to get started, often including everything you need in one package.

Cross Stitch Must-Haves

• Fabric: Aida cloth (Zweigart is highly recommended), evenweave, Lugana, or Jobelan.

• Needles: Tapestry needles with blunt ends for safe and easy stitching.

• Thread: DMC Stranded Cotton for consistent color and strength.

• Tools: Fabric stabilizer, embroidery hoop or frame, pattern marker pens, sharp scissors, and needle minders.

Having the right supplies can make your stitching experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Techniques and Stitches to Know

Understanding key stitches will improve your crafting experience and final results.

Embroidery Techniques

There are over 300 stitches to explore. Some of the most popular include:

• Backstitch: Great for outlining.

• Satin Stitch: Ideal for filling shapes with solid color.

• French Knot: Adds texture and detail.

• Chain Stitch: Good for bold lines.

• Stem and Split Stitch: Perfect for curves and outlines.

• Woven Wheel & Bullion Knot: Add 3D floral effects.

• Couching & Blanket Stitch: Useful for decorative borders and layered effects.

Cross Stitch Methods

Cross stitch is simpler in technique but just as rewarding:

• Full Cross Stitch: Standard X-shape stitch.

• Half Stitch: Used for shading or softer details.

• Backstitch: Enhances outlines and fine elements.

Patterns guide you every step of the way, making even complex designs accessible.

Choosing the Best Fabric

Picking the right fabric is key for clean stitching and an enjoyable experience.

Embroidery Fabrics

• Linen: Offers texture and strength, great for most designs.

• Cotton: Easy to work with and ideal for beginners.

• Specialty Options: Flour sack towels or Kona cotton.

• Stabilizers: Prevent stretching and help with beading or detailed designs.

Pre-washing is recommended to avoid shrinkage later.

Cross Stitch Fabrics

• Aida Cloth: Has a visible grid and comes in counts like 14, 18, or 22 for varying detail.

• Evenweave: Offers a smoother look for high-detail work.

• Lugana and Jobelan: Perfect for advanced projects needing consistent thread spacing.

Test swatches help you choose the best fit for your project.

Why Choose Embroidery?

Embroidery offers both mental and physical benefits. A study from University College London in 2020 showed that creative hobbies like embroidery can lower stress and improve overall health. It also enhances focus, reduces anxiety, and builds confidence through artistic expression.

Other benefits include:

• Creativity: You design your own patterns and play with colors.

• Sustainability: Eco-friendly with minimal materials needed.

• Budget-Friendly: Basic supplies are inexpensive and long-lasting.

• Versatility: Repair, decorate, or personalize nearly anything.

Why Choose Cross Stitch?

Cross stitch is ideal for beginners and offers its own set of wellness benefits. A study at Royal United Hospital Bath showed it reduces cortisol and increases serotonin and dopamine, helping you feel calm and happy.

Additional perks include:

• Ease of Learning: Pre-made kits and easy-to-follow patterns.

• Therapeutic Process: Acts like meditation through repetition.

• Detailed Artwork: Even with basic skills, you can create intricate designs.

• Community: Many online groups and forums for sharing patterns and progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more relaxing: embroidery or cross stitch?
Both crafts promote relaxation. Embroidery encourages creativity through freeform stitching, while cross stitch offers a repetitive, structured approach.

What supplies are needed?
Linen or cotton fabric, embroidery floss, sharp needles, hoops, scissors, and fabric markers.

What supplies are needed for cross stitch?
Aida or evenweave fabric, tapestry needles, embroidery floss (DMC preferred), and a hoop or frame.

What’s the best fabric for embroidery?
Linen and Kona cotton are top choices for their smooth texture and stitch support.

What’s the best fabric for cross stitch?
Aida cloth is standard, with evenweave as a good alternative for detailed designs.

What’s easier to learn: embroidery or cross stitch?
Cross stitch is easier for beginners due to its repetitive patterns and fewer stitch types.

Final Thoughts

Embroidery and cross stitch both offer rich, calming experiences. Embroidery gives you creative freedom with endless stitch combinations, while cross stitch provides structure and meditative repetition. Your choice depends on your style—do you prefer artistic flow or organized symmetry? Either way, both crafts are rewarding ways to relax, express yourself, and make something beautiful.