# [Start and finish counted threads](https://threadcabin.com/explore/298/start-and-finish-counted-threads)

> Choose a start compatible with strand count and thread behavior. Secure ends under suitable existing stitches without creating dark travel paths beneath pale open ground.

- Canonical page: https://threadcabin.com/explore/298/start-and-finish-counted-threads
- Language: en
- Published: 2026-09-25T17:26:34.6230844+00:00
- Updated: 2026-09-25T17:26:39.4771066+00:00
- Craft: Embroidery
- Primary image: [Illustration: A small counted motif started from a lightly basted center cross, beside a second sample started near a marked corner.](https://threadcabin.com/images/explore/focused/counted-start.jpg)

Choose a start compatible with strand count and thread behavior. Secure ends under suitable existing stitches without creating dark travel paths beneath pale open ground.

## Before you start

Have the chart key, chart width and height, fabric thread count and threads crossed by each stitch. Keep floss strands separate from fabric threads.

## Try this example

Compare an approved loop start using one folded strand with a secured tail using two separate strands. A folded variegated strand may change the intended color sequence.

## Check your result

- Count from two independent reference points before filling a large area. Verify the outer stitched dimensions on the actual ground; include finishing fabric separately.
- Changing fabric count changes physical size, not chart complexity. Fractional stitches, mixed scales and non-square grounds need explicit chart instructions.

## Sources

- [rsnstitchbank.org: cross stitch](https://rsnstitchbank.org/stitch/cross-stitch)
- [rsnstitchbank.org: counted thread](https://rsnstitchbank.org/technique/counted-thread)

[Browse editable craft templates](/crafts?craft=embroidery)

[Report a correction](/corrections).

## Sources and provenance

- [Fabric count, stitch size, and thread coverage](https://threadcabin.com/explore/6/fabric-count-stitch-size-and-thread-coverage)
- [Plan travel paths on the reverse](https://threadcabin.com/explore/305/plan-travel-paths-on-the-reverse)
- [Plan variegated-thread effects](https://threadcabin.com/explore/312/plan-variegated-thread-effects)