To Railroad or Not to Railroad...

 ...that is the question.

No, no...not that type of railroad! I'm talking about railroading your cross stitches today.

Not everyone will "railroad" their cross stitch. I don't always do it but I do feel that railroading yields a neater and more professional finish. The stitches lay flatter because the thread does not tend to twist as it would if you didn't railroad. Is it absolutely necessary? I don't think so. I do think it comes down to personal preference and even habit. 

I found an interesting article on "Railroading Stitching Technique" which also provides a clear photo and instructions on how to railroad. I suggest trying a swatch for yourself and you decide which looks, feels or works best for you. To read the article, click on the pic below:

For a closeup of beautiful cross stitching using the railroad technique, check out Artmishka Cross Stitching by clicking the pic below:

On a personal note, I would love to take a trip by railroad someday. How about you?

Thanks for stopping by today!