Can't see the threads

I have a particular vision issue and for me, light is critical. I use an Ott Lite, but I need to adjust the angle so that I can see "shadows" between the threads if that makes any sense. It's easiest for me to stitch at night when rest of the room has dim light, but the Ott is bright and I can control the "shadow" by angling the light. That said, whenever I switch to a new project, it takes a little bit of time for my eyes to adjust. As bad as my eyes are, I can actually stitch on 40 ct linen comfortably now. Oh, one more thing: try different sorts of fabric and see if that makes a difference. I absolutely love Krista's Mikini cloth. It's dreamy!

This has all been so helpful and encouraging. I will continue to struggle along in the hopes that I will learn to see. Maybe counting holes in the meantime will help. i think your idea of a video addressing this is a good one, as perhaps many struggle with this and might give up before they learn to see. Thank you all for your support!

yes, I think you should give yourself a couple of weeks on the 30ct linen, especially if you like the look and feel of it because you're going to be happier with the finished embroidery. When I switch from stitching on 26ct to 30ct, it takes me a couple of hours to be comfortable "seeing" the 30ct threads so that's totally normal. Just keep in mind that you're asking your brain to do an entirely new task and see in a whole new way and that takes regular practice. But, I suspect in a week or two, it will suddenly "click" and then you'll be on your way. All of this was really great feedback for me as it's inspired me to do a "so, you're totally new to cross stitch" video discussing all this stuff :)

I agree with whatever is saying--learning to "see" the threads is kind of like learning to ride a bike: it takes a bit to get the hang of it and then you can't not see the threads! The idea of looking for the holes is a good one--when I really stop and analyze how I stitch, I'm looking for the holes, not the threads, too. I'd recommend practicing about 15-20 min/day to give your brain time to build the "wiring" you need for this new skill. It's a whole new way of looking at fabric and your brain may just need a little bit of time to learn to see this way. If you find the 30ct linen a bit tough to work on, let me know and I'll send you some 26ct Mikini or TG to practice on (email me for that at avleaembroidery@gmail.com ) first. I do find the linen is a smidge harder to see the threads which is part of why I'm such a big fan of the 26ct fabrics :)

This is my first time x stitching on linen, and I had to work to get my mind the “see” the threads. When I started I actually counted holes not threads. Where my thread was- hole #1 then 2 holes over put the thread down. Now I can see the “thread” pattern too, so I go back and forth as a brain exercise. Depending on lighting I have to adjust how many readers I wear 😁

I actually stitch without my glasses, as my vision very near up is pretty good. At a recent eye exam the doctor said, "You're lucky! You have built-in readers!" I've considered trying readers to see if they would help even more though. Also, stitching in sunlight helps. The intense light shines through the tiny holes and makes them much easier to see.

I use Mag-Eyes for stitching. I use them with my progressive lens glasses. They work very well.