I have picked up fabric (new in tubes) at thrifts and know it is the type used for counted cross stitch. 

This would be a new endeavor for me, as I have only done stamped embroidery designs, like pillowcases and tablecloths, or crewel. 

Does anyone have a recommendation for a work frame for this type of stitchery?  Thanks in advance!

If I'm understanding the question correctly, you are asking about a stitching frame? If the pattern you are doing is small enough, you can just hold it in your hand and stitch. You can use those round frames but they leave marks and creases. I recommend you start with something small like an ornament. Virginia Needlewoman or Pat may have some other advice. I do cross stitch all the time and I'm currently doing a piece 20 x 29 and not in a stitching frame. You can always send me a Private email if you have any other questions. Good job on the fabric find!

I've used the wood roller frames for the larger projects. They can be used in  a stand or propped against your knee if you sit crossed legged on a couch or chair. Edey

Hi Toni,

Yes, I was asking about a stitching frame.  I've not done the counted but when I saw this fabric, I thought I should get it and have a go.    Even if it's something I can't get to until later.    I see this fabric quite often.  It is the same as in JoAnn and other stores.  I will have to look at the thread count.

I'm working on doll things for a great niece and still have a regular hooked rug (done with yarn, but not latch hook) in a frame on the sunporch, but that is when I sit down and make time to do it. 

I like having projects that I can take along and pick up and put down, but have always worked with a hoop for regular embroideries. 

I may look for a stitching frame at a thrift shop.  Meanwhile, I will have to decide upon a picture and figure out how to make it into a chart. 

Thanks for the info that it is possible to do this without a frame!

I think it is the roller frames that I have seen.  Will look for one in a thrift, but don't think I've seen them appear frequently.

I like the switchplate covers. 

For smaller projects I use embroidery hoops, but I prefer the roller frames as well.  I buy extra dowels as I need them (make sure they fit in your frame) and staple the project on with a staple gun instead of buying the split dowels - much cheaper, and it makes the frame adjustable for different width projects.

I've always done my cross-stitching in embroidery hoops, moving the hoop around as needed as this is how my momt aught me. The roller frames sound intriguing! I've found that with larger pieces I'll sometimes get "hoop creases" from having to move and reset the hoop to start stitching in a new area.

You have several options. For larger pieces scroll frames may be your best bet. There are wooden hoops in various sizes from small to large, many found in thrift shops. Most don't use them anymore as there are better options. The wooden hoops can leave marks in your fabric. If you remove it from the hoop each time you use it, and wrap the hoop, you won't have any problems. There are spring tension hoops that work well for evenweave and linen fabrics. Aida fabric (the kind with the holes showing) is stiffer and doesn't work as well in the spring tension hoops although I will use it. I prefer to use q-snaps. These are the square (or rectangular) frames that are made of white PVC plastic, with a plastic sleeve that snaps over the tubes holding your fabric on. These are available in different lengths and interchangable so you can make the size or shape you want depending on what lengths you have. If the project is small enough, I won't even use a frame or hoop. I think very large projects are done best on scroll frames as it helps keep your overall tension the same. Regardless of which hoop or frame you choose to use, it's a good idea to edge your fabric. Easiest for me is to just zigzag the edges on a sewing machine. This will help so that it doesn't unravel as you work on it. Some have used fray check on the edges (it's a glue that dries clear). In the past I've even edged fabric with a strip of masking tape folded over the edges. I don't recommend it however as it will leave the fabric tacky after it's taken off, depending on how long it stays on there. If you use that method, I'd just cut the edges of the fabric that are taped off after your done, so leave extra fabric on the edges for framing if you do that. If you're just starting out, I'd start with a small simple design. Nothing too large or complicated. Stay clear of french knots and if possible, fractional stitches until you're used to doing the regular stitches. There are many websites online with free counted cross stitch patterns to choose from. I've been cross stitching for over 25 years now.

Karen, have you seen where you can attach the work to the frame by a method that appears to be Velcro strips?  It might be another type of tape, just saw it briefly yesterday.

Ariana, I found different frames on the www.Herrschners.com website -- go to Needlework, then in the left sidebar click on Working Tools.  The roller frames can be expensive, so now we can haunt our thrifts and other sales for this type of item.