Needlepoint 101

Welcome to your newest obsession! 

What You'll Need

  • Canvas

    Canvas comes in different mesh sizes, and you determine the mesh size by counting how many holes are in an inch on the canvas. 13 mesh has larger holes (13 every inch) and will be faster to stitch, and easier to see. 18 mesh has smaller wholes and are great for being able to add details to your design

  • Needle

    For 13 mesh canvases, use size 20 tapestry needles. For 18 mesh, use size 22 tapestry needle. The lower number = a larger needle that better accommodate thicker fibers and make your stitching experience that much better. And I like to use a new needle for every new canvas, so that it's not dull when stitching. 

  • Thread

    Threads are arguably the most fun part about needlepoint. There are so many different kinds, colors, textures, that can really make a project unique. 

    18 Mesh Thread Options

    Planet Earth Essentials, Pepper Pot, Vineyard Silk, DMC Cotton 

    13 Mesh Thread Options

    Silk and Ivory, Pepper Pot, Milan, DMC Floss 

Stitches to Get Started

Continental Stitch

The continental stitch is a fundamental, stitch in needlepoint where you go from the bottom-left to top-right (you can think of it as going from Florida to Maine) when you're moving horizontally to the left. When you go horizontally right, you'll go top-right to bottom-left (or Maine to Florida).

This stitch can but used all over your canvas, but it is ideal for tight spots, narrow lines, and easy to mindlessly stitch.

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