Netherlands

Preserving the direction of your stitches is very importent. Once you choose it don't change, stick with it unless your project specifically calls for it. It helps you to avoid your project looking haphazard and sloppy.

If you want to iron your cross-stitch project, set your iron to its lowest "Warm" setting. While ironing place your cross-stitch project on top of two or three smooth towels right side down.
You can use another flat towel to put over the back of the fabric ,to safely iron your cross-stitch design.

Remember, cross-stitch is considered counted embroidery.
So count count count count again and double check your counting. It really helps minimize mistakes.
Gridding save you a lot of time (and your sanity too). Cross stitch is meant to be relaxing. Make your hobby hugely beneficial for your mental and physical health.

Embroidery needles used for cross-stitch are often called cross stitch needles or tapestry needles.
Cross stitch needles come in different sizes depending on thickness. Most commonly used size is 24. It is the best choice for stitching on 14-count aida.
A tapestry needle is a hand sewing needle with a blunt end and a large eye.
You don't need a sharp needle to use with an open weave like Aida.
The rounded tip of a tapestry needle is important because it helps to ensure you don't accidentally pierce the threads of the fabric.

You can find fabric for cross stitching in different sizes, colors and types.

Aida, linen and evenweave are the most common types of cross-stitch fabric. The standard Aida fabric is a good fabric for beginners because the holes are large and easy to see.
Note - it is the number of holes per inch that determines the size of your stitches.