If you are total beginner, I would suggest heading to Michael's or Hobby Lobby. They have cross stitch kits that include a stamped print so you can just follow along. They usually include instructions on the various stitches.

"Counted" cross stitch just means it's done on an evenweave fabric (usually fabric called aida cloth) that has no design printed on it. You fold the fabric lengthwise and crosswise to find the center. The pattern has the centers marked, too, so you start stitching in the center, following the symbols on the pattern.

I second the suggestion to go to Michael's or Hobby Lobby and find a beginner level kit. That way you have all the thread colors you need and the fabric.

Donna

It's super easy. If you're at all skilled with crafts, you won't need any instruction, but do start with an easy project:

- Start with something small (so you can feel successful quickly) ... Christmas ornaments wouldn't be a bad starting point.

- Start with evenweave (Aida cloth) ...do not touch linen until you're experienced.

- Aida cloth comes with numbers ... 14 count means 14 "squares" per inch, 11 count means 11 "squares" per inch ... larger squares are easier for beginners. You could work the same pattern on two different sized cloths and end up with the same pattern enlarged /shrunk.

- If you get a plain pattern book (or even print one from the internet), it'll list all the thread colors you'll need for your pattern ... stick with DMC brand thread, and you'll find it easy to pick up the colors you need. Your thread will be six-stranded ... if you're using 11 or 14 count cloth, stitch with two strands.

- Pick up a small hoop to hold your pattern taut as you work.

- Tape the sides of your fabric so they won't unravel.

- Start in the MIDDLE of the pattern and work your way out.

- I like to enlarge my patterns on a xerox machine (my eyes aren't what they used to be) and mark them with a highlighter when I've finished a section.