Cross Stitch on Black Aida

[OldGreyBoots]

Hi all,

I've got a big cross stitch project planned on black 18 count aida. I'm working on a small piece on black just now and I'm realising how much of an undertaking the big project will be! I'm not sure whether I need a daylight lamp, a lap-based light source to stitch above, or maybe both
Does anyone have any recommendations of light sources for stitching on black, that I could maybe acquire at Christmas? Thanks!

Ottlite is the favourite brand of cross stitchers, from what I can tell. I just have a cheap £30 lap lamp from Amazon as I don’t have Ottlite money It works well. Also try using a white pillowcase or similar on your lap, under the stitching. Helps to see the holes.

I scrapped the last big project I started on black aida as it was just no fun. Got me some old eyes now and I can’t see. 😆

Ikea halogen reading lamp here.

I have a MIL which is discontinued but they have quite a few in their current line up.

MIL = name of design not Mother In Law....

I just put a bit of white paper or card on my lap and that seems to be enough to see the holes. It looks stunning but it’s so hard on the darker fabric!