First you are going to want to gather your materials. I use 14 ct White Aida, black dmc (#310), a simple black 4x6 frame, pattern available in my shop, and of course don't forget your scissors! Beginners may want to invest in a hoop to hold the fabric in place, I personally don't use them for small pieces like this but I also have some hoops available in my shop for purchase!

A little stitchers secret to keep your pieces looking nice and neat is split your six count of thread. I use two strands at a time!

As you can tell in the first picture I start my pieces in the center. It is easy to do because most patterns show arrows on the top and center length of that paper, as you can see in the center of the pattern in the previous picture. Simply fold your fabric in half both ways and you will know your center point of fabric. I stitch half stitches first so if I make a mistake it is easy to remove the stitches

As you follow the simple to read pattern, and if you stitch the half stitches like I do, your piece will start to look something like this.

Once you have finished the half stitches you will have an idea of what your piece will look like. Great point to make sure it fits the frame you have set aside for the piece, just in case you make a mistake you can always remove the stitches!

The next step is easy, you just go back through the pattern x-ing or crossing the half stitches.

Your piece should start to come together though out step six.

This is what your piece should look like once it is completely stitched!

This step isn't mandatory but it helps keep the piece in place. This is double sided tape placed on the inside of the back of the frame.

Center piece on the back of the frame and cut and remove any excess aida fabric.

The frame should snap right into place and ta-da! You not only have taught yourself how to cross stitch but you have a super cute/awesome cross stitch to hang in your kitchen or apartment :)