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Cross-Stitch · Absolute beginner · 6 min read

Reading cross-stitch charts: symbols, colours, centre points

Cross-stitch charts use one symbol per colour on a counted-thread grid. Here is how to find the centre and count from it.

By Iona MacRae · Embsupply, head of craft Updated 2026-04-22

Reading cross-stitch charts: symbols, colours, centre points

A cross-stitch chart is a grid where each square represents one X-shaped stitch. The symbol inside the square tells you the thread colour.

Anatomy of a chart

A chart has a symbol legend (which colour each symbol means), the grid itself, and arrows on the edges pointing to the centre.

Finding the centre

Fold your fabric in half and then in half again. The centre crease is your start point. Find the matching centre square on the chart.

Counting from the centre

Count outward from the centre as you stitch. Always count from your last completed stitch — not from the chart edge.

Found this useful? Pair the read with one of our kits — every kit page lists the relevant guides under the gallery.

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