I am starting a new cross-stitch pattern. It is the feather fairy from Mirabilia patterns. I LOVE Mirabilia patterns, and I’ve had this one for several years but never started it. That seems to be a trend for me. I decided that after all of the issues I had with my last large cross-stitch (I had to rip out half of it and redo it because it was off) I decided to create a grid on my linen to mimic the chart. This was an idea my mother-in-law taught me when I first started cross-stitching.
So basically all you do is find the center of your fabric and start with plain sewing thread that is in a color that you can see on the linen. I used red Coats and Clark thread. I like to use 32 count linen but it can be hard to see when you are stitching over two. With the grid, it makes it so much easier to count and stay on track. Yes it takes a little time to make the grid, but it saves so much time in the end when you don’t have to rip out stitches. When you make the grid, I use the thread and stitch over and under every 4 threads.
Then it is super easy to find your starting point and check your position with your cart. Another thing I do is I make a copy of my chart so that I can cross out or highlight areas that I have completed.
This is super helpful to make sure you stay on track. I hope these tips are helpful if you are having trouble with counted-cross stitching. Happy Friday!
A Dilettante of Fruition 
Erica, This fairy is going to be another beauty. I really like the color of the deep blue in her skirt. Thanks for includidng the pictures of the way you make the grid. It will be very helpful in my next big project. Happy stitiching.
Love
Grandma