Ann Logan

Use a sharp pair of small scissors to avoid frayed ends on your floss. There are many embroidery scissors or thread clippers to choose from. The most useful size of embroidery scissor for cross stitch is probably 3/12 inch or 4 inch. It is a convenient size for snipping ends of floss while you stitch. Clip the floss with a small tail or with no tail at all. It’s a matter of choice. Beware of ends showing through the fabric. We have many fancy designer scissors and several more plain scissors to choose from. Some of my favorites are by Gingher and they are truly collectors items. They come in a variety of colorful handles and there are new ones every season. Right now the newest one is called Tessa. Store your scissors in the sheath that they come with or in a scissor block if you collect scissors. A scissor block is similar to a knife block.

Most designs supposed to be done using two strands of embroidery floss. But the floss is usually sold in six strand packaging.
So before threading your needle, you should separate all the 6 strands.
To do it just cut somewhat about 15”-18” (35 - 45 cm) of the thread. Hold it near the top with one hand allowing the bottom to untwist. Now pull each ply upward with the other hand. Carefully - one at a time.
Combine the necessary number of strands (typically two) and save the remaining for the next usage.