Cross-stitch:
By following these instructions, you will use minimum thread and the thread on the back of the picture will be neat. Work across a row making all the left to right diagonal stitches of one floss color. Bring the thread up through hole 1 and down through hole 2 (Figure 1); up through hole 3, down through hole 4, etc. Return crossing with right-to-left diagonal stitches. Bring thread up through hole 9 and down through hole 10. All the stitches must cross in the same direction so that the stitching looks uniform.

Backstitch:
The backstitch may be worked horizontally, vertically or diagonally. Bring the thread up through hole 1 and down through hole 2 (Figure 2); up through hole 3, down through hole 4, etc. to form a continuous line. Note: Even if you are stitching in a straight line and are tempted to go over several threads (for example #4 to #7 in one stitch) at a time, the finished picture looks better if you backstitch every thread.

French Knot:
Hold the thread down with the left thumb as it emerges at 1 and wind the thread twice around the needle (Figure 3). Twist the needle to the diagonal hole at 2 (Figure 4) and secure the thread on the back.

Chain-stitch:
Bring the thread up through hole 1 (Figure 5). Then, plunge the needle down hole 1 and up hole 2. Do not pull the needle through the fabric yet. Wrap the thread around the tip of the needle and then pull the needle through the fabric. Repeat.