Ann Logan

Try to buy all your threads for a specific cross-stitch project at once. Why? Because the embroidery thread is dyed in different dye lots. Hence even if you think that you get a specific color from a specific manufacturer, it can sometimes have a slightly different hue. Most times it is not that noticeable, but to be on the safe side, buy it all at once.

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.