Stitch Pantry

LESSON 1 OF 8 · ABOUT 8 MINUTES

Read a symbol chart

Turn a printed symbol into the right stitch, and leave blank squares empty.

Bring to the table

  • A symbol chart and its color key
  • A pencil or stitch mode

See the example

This practice chart uses A for the flower and O for the leaf. Each printed symbol calls for one full cross over one Aida square. The letters are a key, not letters to embroider. An empty square has no stitch.

Chart squaresAAAOOOA → flower threadO → leaf threadOne full crossBlank square → leave the fabric bare
A 4-column, 3-row chart contains three A symbols and three O symbols. The diagram shows that a symbol becomes one crossed pair of diagonal stitches.

Try it step by step

  1. Read the key first

    Match the symbol to the thread name or listed number on this pattern. Keys belong to their own chart; A can mean a different color on another design.

  2. Locate one square

    Read from the numbered row and column. Count the empty squares between motifs as positions even though you leave them unstitched.

  3. Mark only worked stitches

    Finish both diagonals before marking that square on the paper chart or in stitch mode. Use the symbol rather than the screen color when colors look similar.

YOUR TURN

A small practice check

Select all three O squares in this practice chart. Leave A and blank squares unselected.

Show the answer and explanation

Row 2, column 2; row 3, columns 2 and 3.

The leaf stitches are row 2, column 2 and row 3, columns 2 and 3. Empty squares still occupy space; they do not receive stitches.

Check your actual work

  • I can point to the symbol and its matching key entry.
  • My marked squares each contain two completed diagonals.
  • The empty gaps have the same width as on the chart.

The practice check reviews a method. Use these checks on your own cloth before moving on.

If something goes wrong

Two thread colors look alike.

Compare the symbols and the printed key. Label your cut threads with their symbol before continuing.

I filled an empty square.

Unmark the square, then use the undo lesson to remove the unwanted cross without cutting the fabric.

Use the skill on a project

Pocket Tulip → has a complete chart, materials and stitch mode.

Explore the window card finish →

Next: Find the center and size your fabric

Technique references

Diagrams and practice examples are original teaching illustrations. They are not photographs of finished stitching.