Ann Logan

When choosing supplies, purchase the best you can afford. Everything you choose does not have to be the most expensive, high-end model, but there are some supplies you should not skimp on. Floss and fabrics should be good quality, especially as you start to work on larger projects.
Good scissors for cutting fabric and flosses are a must. Cross stitch does not have to be an expensive hobby, but if you are investing your time in creating an heirloom sampler, you will want to be sure that the supplies are of a quality that corresponds to your effort.

I assume that you yourself understand this, but still I will say. It is very important to wash your hands before touching the fabric or thread. Of course, you are going to wash the finished cross stitch design, but why make it dirtier?
In case you use a thread or fabric that is hand-dyed wash them in advance so that they do not stain your handwork.
Unwind your thread from time to time. Just leave the needle and let the thread loose - it will unwind itself... Or help it a little to unwind.
Do this every few stitches, otherwise the texture will be uneven and the fabric will show through your stitches too much.