One of the things I enjoy most about counted cross stitch is the vast array of fabrics and fibers that are available to choose from. A change in the ground fabric can give a whole new look to a design, and while we are executing someone else's design we can make it uniquely our own by making this simple change

Don't be afraid to experiment. And if you haven't tried stitching on linen or an over 2 thread fabric, choose something you like and go for it.
I recommend trying a scrap of fabric and don't worry about stitching a design, just stitch. Soon you'll get used to seeing the stitch and realize it really isn't any different than stitching on aida cloth. There will be more tips regarding stitching on these fabrics in later months.

When you have chosen the design and the fabric you want to stitch on, you want to be sure to purchase enough fabric. To make sure my fabric is large enough, I always add 3"-4" to each side of my design area.
This means that if my design area is 6" x 6" I will cut my fabric somewhere between 12" x 12" and 14" x 14". This is my comfort level that I will have enough fabric to finish my piece however I would like and to allow for any miscalculations I may have made. ( Of course, not that any of us would make a miscalculation.)
Be sure to cut your fabric on the grain line both vertically and horizontally. This will give you a nice even piece and assure you if using a "Tomorrow's Treasures" scroll frame that your fabric will be on straight and perfectly blocked.

When using a scroll frame to do your cross stitch, it is not necessary to prefinish any of the edges of your needlework, because there is no stress on them while you are stitching. If you do choose to prefinish your edges zig zagging on a sewing machine is the preferred method. However, if you are using a scroll frame you do not want to do this as it would prevent you from being able to get an even tension.
If you are using tape or a no-fray product, be sure to cut an extra 1" to 1 1/2" of fabric all the way around so you can cut off just inside where the tape or no-fray product was before you frame your finished piece. Tape and no-fray products both have chemicals which are detrimental to the fabric over time. These chemicals also migrate into the fabric, so you want to be sure to cut 1/2" inside where you can see the edge of the residue from the tape or the no-fray product

Don't be afraid to experiment and try something new on your next piece. A trip to your local needlework shop will excite your senses with the many choices available to you. Enjoy! .