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 Selecting the Thread/Fiber
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Commercial charts suggest which type and color or thread to use.  Kits even
supply the thread for you.  However, there are times when you want to select
the thread yourself.

Situation:  The floss supplied in a kit is of poor quality.
   If you are lucky, the chart supplied with the kit lists color numbers and
   an available brand name.  This doesn't happen very often, at least with
   kits that supply ugly floss.  If there is no list, try to get a color card
   for one of the big-name brands of floss such as DMC or Anchor.  Look for
   one which includes thread samples.  Match the colors from the kit with the
   colors on the card as carefully as you can.  Do it in natural light, if
   possible.  Write down the numbers of the colors you need on the chart, next
   to the correct symbol.  Buy whatever floss you don't have on hand, and
   start stitching!  If you already started the picture with the old floss,
   rip it out or get new cloth and START OVER.  If you can't find a color
   card, take the bad floss with you to your local craft store and do the
   matching there.  Be careful, because the fluorescent lighting in most
   stores can make the colors look wrong.

Situation:  You created the chart yourself.
   If you are experienced enough to create your own chart, you are probably
   experienced enough to select fibers.  Consider using the many new types of
   fibers which are now available, such as metallics and hand painted silks.
   See section "5.1 Fibers to Use Other Than Floss" for some hints.
   Always keep in mind the final use of whatever you are stitching.  For
   example, don't use a non-colorfast silk for a baby's bib.

Situation:  You want to use a different brand of floss than suggested.
   Some charts supply color number information for two or three manufacturers'
   floss.  If not, try to find a floss conversion chart.  Commercial ones are
   available.  Even better, there is a "DMC-Anchor-J&P Coats" conversion chart
   in this FAQ.  Look for section "5.2 Floss Conversion Chart."

Situation:  You want a different texture or finish.
   Consider using the many new types of fibers which are now available, such
   as metallics and hand painted silks.  See section "5.1 Fibers to Use Other
   Than Floss" for some hints.
   Always keep in mind the final use of whatever you are stitching.  For
   example, don't use a non-colorfast silk for a baby's bib.

Situation:  You want to use different colors than suggested.
   If it is a geometric design or a simple picture with no shading, replace
   the colors anyway you like.  More care must be taken for complex pictures.
   Compare the values of the old set of colors and the new set to make sure
   they are the same.  You can do this by looking at the threads through red
   glass or cellophane, or by photocopying them in black-and-white.