Counting threads on an iron-on denim patch would be virtually impossible—but it is possible to embroider such a patch with cross-stitches, and to keep those stitches as straight and even as though you could count the threads. The secret is cross-stitch canvas. It looks like a thin penelope needlepoint canvas, with a dark vertical thread every five meshes to help you keep count. You simply baste this cross-stitch canvas on top of the denim patch (or any other uneven-weave or hard-to-count fabric); then work your stitches through both layers. Count the threads of the canvas as you would count the threads of an even-weave fabric, and make the cross-stitches over the meshes, keeping them even but not too tight. When the embroidery is finished, cut off the excess canvas and gently pull out the threads from underneath the cross-stitches (photograph 9). To avoid crushing the stitches, use a terry cloth towel as a press cloth when you iron the patch onto a tote bag or jeans.