Cross-stitch is a form of sewing and a popular form of counted-thread embroidery in which
X-shaped
stitches
in a
tiled,
raster-like pattern are used to form a picture. The stitcher counts the threads on a piece of evenweave
fabric
(such as
linen) in each direction so that the stitches are of uniform size and appearance. This form of
cross-stitch
is
also
called counted cross-stitch in order to distinguish it from other forms of cross-stitch.
    Sometimes
cross-stitch is
done on designs printed on the fabric (stamped cross-stitch); the stitcher simply stitches over the
printed
pattern.
Cross-stitch is often executed on easily countable fabric called aida cloth, whose weave creates a
plainly
visible
grid of squares with holes for the needle at each corner.