Do you use the same thread for cross stitch and embroidery?

Both commonly use stranded cotton, and DMC thread works for both. The difference is in how you use it: cross stitch usually calls for 2 strands on 14-count Aida, while embroidery strand count varies by stitch type and desired thickness.

Can I use cross stitch patterns for embroidery?

You can transfer a cross stitch pattern to embroidery by tracing the design onto fabric and filling it with embroidery stitches like satin stitch or stem stitch instead of cross stitches. The result looks quite different from the original counted pattern.

What equipment do I need for embroidery vs cross stitch?

Both use similar equipment: fabric, thread, needles, and a hoop. Cross stitch requires Aida or evenweave fabric and a blunt tapestry needle. Embroidery can be done on almost any fabric and uses a sharp embroidery needle. Both use stranded cotton thread.

Cross Stitch vs Embroidery

Q: Is cross stitch considered embroidery?

Yes. Cross stitch is a type of embroidery — specifically, counted embroidery. All cross stitch is embroidery, but not all embroidery is cross stitch. The word embroidery covers dozens of techniques; cross stitch is one of them.

Cross stitch is a type of embroidery that uses only X-shaped stitches placed on a counted grid. Embroidery is the broader category — it includes dozens of stitch types and does not require a counted fabric grid. All cross stitch is embroidery, but not all embroidery is cross stitch.

What is cross stitch?

Cross stitch is counted embroidery. You work from a grid pattern, placing X-shaped stitches on Aida or evenweave fabric. The grid structure of the fabric tells you exactly where each stitch goes. The result is a precise, pixel-like image. Most cross stitch projects use 14-count Aida and follow a colour-coded pattern chart. See the full cross stitch guide to get started.

What is embroidery?

Embroidery is the broader craft of decorating fabric with needle and thread. It includes satin stitch (used for solid-colour fills), stem stitch (for outlines and curves), chain stitch, French knots, lazy daisy stitch, and dozens more. Embroidery can be done on almost any fabric and does not require a counted grid — designs are either freehand or traced onto the fabric.

Side-by-side comparison

Feature	Cross Stitch	Embroidery
Stitch types	X-shaped only	30+ stitch types
Fabric	Aida or evenweave	Any fabric
Pattern following	Counted grid	Traced or freehand
Difficulty to start	Easier	Moderate to hard
Design precision	Very high (pixel-exact)	Variable
Equipment cost	Low	Low to moderate
Time to learn basics	Hours	Days to weeks

Which should you start with?

Start with cross stitch if you want to follow patterns and produce recognisable pictures — portraits, landscapes, text, geometric designs. The counted grid removes a lot of decision-making, which is helpful when you are learning.

Start with embroidery if you want more creative freedom — painting with thread, creating textures, or working on garments and fabric that is not Aida. The learning curve is steeper but the range of techniques is much wider. Many stitchers do both. Cross stitch is often where they start.

Frequently asked questions

Cross stitch is generally easier to start with. It uses only one stitch type, works on a counted grid so there is less guesswork about stitch placement, and beginner kits are widely available. Embroidery has dozens of stitch types, each with its own technique, which takes longer to learn.