There are a few easy definitions for cross, which holds quite diverse meanings.
By cutting on the cross, the ‘straight of grain’ is transferred from the strict, formal warp thread to the very flexible and malleable bias. Fabric cut on the cross drapes and hangs very differently – as all party girls know. It’s no different for furnishings and although it’s usually only used for trimmings and lampshades there is no reason why the idea might not be further explored. Piping that is cut and made on the cross can be bent around any and every shape, especially curves and no matter how tight, to provide a neat, highly tailored finish. By cutting on the cross, the pattern is changed; playing with stripes, checks, weaves, colours and textures in this way, many ‘self ‘ finishes can be found that take the main fabric to a higher and more sophisticated level.
2. The cross is an international symbol for peace – Swiss flag – Red Cross.
We use it for cushions and for patchworks, so that a solid cross can be used either as a means to break up a colour or to unify diverse patterns and colourings. As a straightforward design motif, for some reason it works particularly well with wool flannel and with winter scenes and skiing motifs. Not just in red and white but also in black, blue, yellow and brown with white or off white.
3. One of the symbols of Christianity – the basic cross shape that symbolises, God to man and reaching out to the whole world, the Celtic cross.
The cross shape is often used to signify unity and as symbolic representation.
As a mechanism for dividing up, reducing a visual size by creating smaller elements – particularly effective for blankets, bedcovers – any large expanse of flat fabric.