I have been stitching for many years now and and as an addicted stitcher,I have developed a few cross stitch habits. I was curious to know if other stitchers have the same or different habits and so I run an online survey to find out. Bear in mind the habits below and try to improve your stitching time and finished project. Here are the most common habits while we stitch:

Habit number 1. Leaving scissors anywhere. Scissors are very important while stitching, they are used every time we pick a new thread and every time we finish stitching with that particular thread color. Most of us leave our scissors nearby without actually paying attention where they are left. I personally end up loosing them and when I stand up to look for them, I always discover I am actually sitting on them! Be very careful where you place them as this bad habit can cause unwanted accidents. It might be a good idea to invest in a scissors holder.

Habit number 2. Needles are also dangerous so keep them in a workbox or invest in a needle organizer. A bad habit is to poke your needles in the couch or sofa chairs.

Habit number 3. Prevent aches and pains. Straining forward to read patterns can make your back ache. Sit comfortably with your back supported. Maybe ask someone else next to you to tell you if you slouch. Good light on your work prevent eyestrain. On bright sunny days, place your back to a window, so that light falls onto your stitching. A lamp is also a good idea for those dark days.

Habit number 4. Tidy up your work and keep your projects clean. All your cross stitch kits should be organized well in boxes (shoeboxes are great for storage) or plastic zip folders. Projects left on tables or chairs look untidy and can get dusty or stained.

Always make sure you wash your hands before stitching and do not use any hand creams. Avoid eating, drinking and stitching at the same time for obvious reasons. However if you do get a stain in your work, wash it gently into warm water with a little detergent added. Then rinse well in cold water.

Habit number 5. It is certainly a bad habit to have UFOs (Unfinished Objects). Most stitchers have at least one unfinished project in a cupboard. Out of sight is not always out of mind. Give a promise to yourself to finish a cross stitch project before starting another one.