Proper lighting is essential to Cross Stitch success. It is so much easier to stitch on any Cross Stitch Stitching Surface when it is well-illuminated.
1. Daylight Fluorescent Bulbs
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Use a regular lamp and one of these compact fluorescent bulbs to improve the lighting in your stitching area.
2. Daylight Needlework Uplight
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This sort of light is a must-have if you enjoy working on dark-colored and black Aida and linen fabric. Place the lightweight lamp on your lap and illuminate the back of the fabric. Place your stitches with precision.
See also: Tips for Working on Dark Fabric
See also: Tips for Working on Dark Fabric
3. Daylight Ultimate Brass Table Lamp
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I am addicted to stitching with my Daylight Table Top Lamp. Of course, I also use it for reading, writing, working on my laptop, and sewing. With or without the accessories, the lamp is pretty enough to complement the decor in the living room.
4. Daylight Ultra Slim Magnifying Lamp
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If you have a craft table, then you will want to seriously consider adding this lamp to it. It features a bright 28 watt light and a magnifier with several levels of magnification. An optional floor stand is also available.
5. George Kovacs Task Floor Lamp
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Place this lamp behind your favorite stitching chair. This light is especially great if you don't have a table lamp beside your chair.
6. Mighty Bright Vusion Craft Light
Photo © Connie G. Thomas
The Mighty Bright Vusion Craft Light is a compact light and magnifier that assists stitchers in solving lighting issues, especially when portability is a must. The 2x magnification is powerful enough for very fine detail. The lamp clip is quite large and fits on most hoops and frames, including a Q-Snap.
7. OTT-Lite True Color 24w Craft Plus Floor Lamp
Bring natural light indoors with this OTT-Lite True Color floor lamp. The floor lamp is suitable for lighting a fairly large area and has a sturdy base, yet offers portability for various work areas.8. OTT-LITE TrueColor Portable 13W Task Lamp
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Portable light at a reasonable price. Sort flosses easily and see to stitch much better.
9. Poll - Do You Use Stitching Aids?
When I was younger, I never thought about using a magnifier and I could stitch just fine in dim light or regular room light. Now, I can't imagine stitching without a specific light source and soon I am sure I will use my magnifier all the time instead of every now and again.How often do you use stitching aids? (Not just lights and magnifiers, but needle tuggers or any other implement that assists you with stitching.)
Do you have a favorite lighting solution that is not on the list?
Email me at crossstitch.guide@about.com or post about it in the About.com Cross Stitch Forum and let us know about it.
