A NOTE ABOUT ORENCO ORIGINALS CHARTS:  
If you look at the top of the single page chart and the first page of the enlarged multi paged chart you will see for example      3825 (3) a symbol followed by a 3 digit or 4-digit number then in parenthesis a number.  The number is the DMC Cotton Floss number. The symbol shows the symbol representing the DMC cotton floss number on our charts. The number in parenthesis is the number of skeins to complete the project.  We have shown one option for a stitched border. You can substitute the single DMC Floss color (on your chart) with the color of your choice.  This customization will add a professional finish to your stitched piece and integrate it into your home decor.
SUPPLY LISTS: The Floss List that is included with the pattern should agree with the Floss-Symbol list on the top of each page of the chart.  The floss list with the symbols on the top of each page of the chart is the accurate one. Always double check that they match the supply list before purchasing floss.

SYMBOLS WITHOUT NUMBERS
We chart our Orenco Originals patterns with up to 48 DMC Colors and we have 48 symbols on our patterns to represent 48 colors. If there are symbols on your pattern that do not have any DMC numbers after them, your pattern does not use those symbols, and you will not see those symbols in your pattern.

COUNTED CROSS STITCH INSTRUCTIONS
Good quality six strand 100% cotton floss is most commonly used for counted cross stitch projects. We recommend DMC Floss.  Your chart is graphed for 14 count aida cloth. Your finished project will be as detailed on the front page.  We recommend using 2 strands of floss with 14 Grid/Count fabric or higher and 3 strands with less than 14 count to achieve good coverage. If the background is a solid dark color, we suggest using 3 strands for that area as well. Separate all six strands of floss and then re-combine the number of strands. Some projects with solid backgrounds can be stitched on colored aida cloth eliminating the need for stitching the background. We suggest either a #24 or a #26 tapestry needle for your projects.
To determine the center of the fabric, fold in both directions. Run a thread through the two folds in order to facilitate counting the stitches. The intersection determines the center of the fabric. For each symbol on the chart work one cross stitch. To begin the first stitch brings the needle through the front of the fabric holding a 1" tail end of the floss on the back. Secure this end in place by working the first few stitches over it. Then work horizontal rows of cross stitches wherever possible, working half of each stitch across the row from left to right. Then complete the stitches, working back in the opposite direction. (See Diagram A)
End each floss color by running the floss under a few completed stitches to the back side. Clip the remaining strands close to the surface. Do not carry long strands of floss from one area of the design to another, as it will show through the front of the fabric. Work all stitches with the same tension. Do not pull too tightly as this may cause the floss to break or the fabric will distort.    

    Diagram A 

FINISHING AND BACK STITCHING SUGGESTIONS
This is your project, and you decide what finishing touches you might want to add.  

THE FABRIC

When choosing your fabric consider if you are going to stitch the background as well as the image.  If you choose not to stitch the background, then choose a fabric that will complement your project.  If the background is not stitched, then the stitched part of the project will be raised and create an embossed look.    You can also increase the number of strands of floss when you stitch certain parts of the image to highlight the area and draw your eye to it in the finished project.

THE BORDER

We have included a stitched border. You can stitch it or ignore it depending upon the finished look you want.  We have chosen a floss color for the border that corresponds to the picture but there are many options. You might want to choose a different color that would better integrate the project with your home décor.

BACKSTITCHING

Backstitching is a personal choice depending upon the finished look you want. Usually, backstitching is done to outline an area of a design and to add a more fluid appearance to the design.  First you must decide if the floss color you want to use is the same color as the cross-stitch area you want to highlight or possibly use a darker shade or a contrasting color of the cross-stitch area you want to highlight. Grey will provide a shading effect and black will create a decisive statement in a backstitch. We recommend using a single strand of floss unless you desire a heavy outline.
There are several methods of backstitching. Here are the 2 we use the most.
Individual Backstitches

Working in and out of the fabric holes, bring the needle up at 1, down at 2, up at 3, and continue to highlight the areas you want to. 
Running Backstitches

Working in and out of the fabric holes, bring the needle up at 1, down at 2, up at 3 down at 4, up at 5 down at 6, up at 7 down at 8, up at 9 down at 10, up at 11 down at 12. Continue until highlight the areas you are outlined.  When backstitching be sure not to split the floss strands of the already placed cross stitches. I find that a sharp needle helps when backstitching. 

EMBROIDERY STITCHES, BEADS, and SPECIALTY FLOSS

There are a lot of creative ways you can embellish your cross-stitch design. Consider adding embroidery stitches to certain areas such as a French knot to highlight an eye or buttons. You might also consider using metallic embroidery floss or variegated floss to augment an area of your work. Seed beads can make a great addition to a project. When attaching beads with cross-stitches, work all first diagonal parts of the cross-stitches, and then attach the beads when you work back across the row. Bugle beads, crystals, charms and small buttons also create interesting touches on a cross-stitch design. These 3-dimensional adornments add interest to any stitchery and are available in numerous colors and styles. Make sure to use good quality glass beads, as plastic beads can melt when ironed.