How to read a cross stitch chart

Squares, symbols, the key and the centre arrows: everything on a chart explained.

Step by step

1. Find the key. Each symbol stands for one thread colour.
2. A symbol filling a whole square means one full cross stitch.
3. A straight or dotted line joining corners means backstitch.
4. Symbols in part of a square are fractional stitches (quarter, half or three-quarter).
5. Bold grid lines usually mark blocks of 10 squares to make counting easier.
6. Follow the arrows at the edges: where they meet is the centre. Start stitching there.

Pinny's tip
Sort your threads on a card with the chart symbol next to each colour.

Sources

All checked November 1, 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.

1. DMC: How to read a cross stitch chart
2. DMC: Step by step cross stitch guide