Hey There, Needlepoint Newbie
We can't wait for you to discover your love for needlepointing!
Here's everything you should know as you get started.
You really only need three things to start needlepointing.
Needle
Thread
A Canvas
Needlepoint Threads
Silk Thread
Many stitches grab for this. Adds beautiful sheen and color to your needlepoint projects. Very easy to work with.
Wool
Provides excellent coverage and durability. Great for objects that get a lots of touch such as belts and pillows.
Decorative/ Sparkle
Adds texture and dimension. Ideal for special accents and highlights. This fiber adds so much fun to any project.
Cotton
Most affordable and obtainable option. You don't have to worry about dye lots. Great for any beginner.
Silk/Wool
Best of both worlds. Gives great color like silk but you get a little bit more durability than you would with just silk.
Needlepoint Terminology
Learn the essential terms and techniques used in needlepoint.
This is the number of holes per inch on the canvas. 13 mesh is easier to and faster to stitch and 18 mesh takes a bit more time!
This is your go to needle. These needles have a blunt tip and a large eye to easily fit thread through.
Each mesh count requires a different size needle.
13 Mesh - Size 20 needle
18 Mesh- Size 22 needle
This is just short for local needlepoint store. This is typically a physical location.
A unit of thread. A skein comes tied up and will need to be cut before stitching.
Threads are dyed in certain color batches. When stitching you will want to stick to the same dye lot so that the color stays consistent.
These are basic stitches great for beginners but also used by more experienced stitchers.
These stitches include continental, basketweave and half cross stitches.
A tent stitch worked horizontally across the canvas, creating diagonal stitches on the front and long stitches on the back.
WIP means work in progress. These are the current projects you are working on.
A tool used to keep threads flat and smooth while stitching.
Holds your canvas in place while you stitch.
This is when you take your finished canvas to someone who then turns it into a usable object such as a belt, an ornament, or a pillow.