Can only cross-stitch guarantee exceptional image quality? No, half-cross-stitch can too.
Previously, I thought that only cross-stitch could achieve a special quality of embroidery. But that's not the case.
This picture is embroidered using half cross stitch, 6 threads.
Half cross stitch on Aida 11 ct.
... In addition, it saves time.
Cross-stitch is only ever a better option if the background is not to be completely stitched. For example, the embroidery below:
Cross stitch (top) and half cross stitch (bottom) in comparison (macro photo):
