Cross stitch patterns are used in needlepoint, embroidery or quilting projects. Free patterns can sometimes be found online. Cross stitching is an embroidery technique where patterns are created with thread to create X-shaped stitches. http://crossstitch.about.com/od/glossa2/g/crossstitch.htm The cross-stitches merge to create a detailed image or pattern on the fabric. Cross stitch patterns are sometimes divided by skill level ranging from easy to difficult.

Cross stitch patterns can be found online, downloaded and printed. Some are free while others can be printed after the customer pays for the download. There are also online tools and computer software that allows needlepoint crafters create their own custom cross stitch patterns using photographs and tools that allow crafters to create custom cross stitch text or wording.http://www.crosstitch.com/fontform/

Cross stitch projects can be created using a variety of patterns and themes including animal, buildings, scenery, vehicles, sports, plants, people, patriotic, floral motifs and holiday themed images. There are several cross stitch pattern designers and brands that create original designs that can be purchased online or in stores. Needlework artists who offer patterns include Historic Needlework Guild, Janlynn, Thomas Beutel, Kustom Krafts, Susan Saltzgiver and StitchX.http://www.crosstitch.com/pdes4.shtmlhttp://www.everythingcrossstitch.com/t-EXS_PatternDesigners.aspx

People sometimes make their own cross-stitch patterns for their needlepoint or embroidery projects. The basic tools needed to make a cross-stitch pattern include a pencil, colored pencils, an eraser, plain paper, tracing paper, carbon transfer paper and graph paper. A pattern or design can be drawn freehand onto regular paper or another image can be used. Once the image to work with is chosen, it is transferred onto the graph paper. Each individual block represents a piece of the pattern. The colors represent the color thread to be used when stitching.http://ltsmith.tripod.com/pshop/cs1.html