Choose a stable linen
Look for a fabric with a consistent weave and enough body to hold the stitches. Very open or loosely woven linen can allow the thread to shift and the pattern to lose its shape.
Slubs are part of linen’s character, but they can interrupt a small counted detail. Use a simpler or larger pattern if the surface is visibly irregular.
Test marking and moisture
Markers can behave differently on linen’s textured surface and may spread into the fibre. Test the chosen transfer method on the exact fabric before drawing the full pattern.
Pre-wash or dampen according to the fabric guidance, then let the cloth relax. Linen often changes hand after washing, which can affect stitch spacing and edge measurements.
Keep the stitches relaxed
Avoid pulling the thread tight to flatten every slub. Let the line follow the surface while maintaining an even rhythm and enough room for the linen to move.
Inspect the reverse and the selvedge after a few rows. If the fabric is distorting, reduce density, add support or choose a more stable ground for the project.