Cashel is an evenweave linen with a surface that keeps the slightly slubby character of flax while remaining easy to count, and a soft handle that stays pleasant even in large cuts. It suits cross stitch worked over two threads, half cross stitch, backstitch, drawn thread work, hemstitching and Hardanger, so it works well for samplers, small framed pieces, table linen, bags and cushions.
Over two threads, two strands of stranded cotton usually give good coverage for cross stitch and one strand is enough for outlines; a size 24 or 26 tapestry needle parts the threads without damaging them. Wash and press the cut before stitching, so that any shrinkage happens first, and allow 5–8 cm (2–3 in) of spare fabric around the design for framing and finishing.