Belfast is a fine, lightweight evenweave linen with the slightly irregular texture of the flax fibre. It suits stitchers who already have some experience of counted thread work and want detailed designs: samplers, small framed pieces, cushions, pincushions, biscornu and sewing accessories. Worked in cross stitch over two threads it gives the same stitch size as 16 count Aida, and it also takes hardanger, drawn thread work and hemstitched borders.
Two strands of stranded cotton are enough for cross stitch over two threads, one strand for a lighter result or for half cross stitch, with a size 26 tapestry needle. Wash the linen before stitching and leave a generous margin around the design for framing and finishing.