It’s been a few years now since I picked up the hobby of needlepoint, and it’s truly become one of my favorite ways to relax after a long day! While I grew up crafting and sewing, I never had the opportunity to start needlepoint until 2020, when everything came to a standstill. I’ve been addicted to the hobby since, and enjoy sharing it with others whenever I can!
Are you a new needlepointer or someone who would love to pick up the hobby but doesn’t know where to start? Then you’re in the right place! I’ve got a variety of needlepoint-related posts for you to check out. But for purposes of brevity, I wanted to compose a post that wasn’t as lengthy, detailing the basics for beginner needlepoint stitchers all in one place. Once you read this post, then I suggest hopping over to my Beginner’s Guide to Needlepoint to learn more.
What is Needlepoint?
Needlepoint is a type of embroidery that uses a variety of stitches to create intricate and detailed designs on canvas. Most often, the canvas is hand-painted with a design, which is why needlepoint canvases can be expensive – it’s a time consuming and skilled process for the needlepoint designer. However, needlepoint is a creative and relaxing craft that can yield beautiful results. Most needlepoint can be found on a square or rectangular shaped canvas, featuring a variety of stitch types and/or beading. Here are a few basics to help you get started with needlepoint:
1. Materials & Tools
- Needlepoint Canvas: There are different types of needlepoint canvas, such as mono canvas (the strongest and most common type) and interlock canvas (ideal for uniquely shaped projects). They also come in different mesh counts – 10, 13 or 18. Mesh count is measured in holes per inch, meaning 13-count mesh has 13 holes per inch of canvas. The lower mesh counts are easier to see and faster to stitch, whereas 18-mesh allows for more detailed stitches.
- Tapestry Needles: These needles have a blunt tip and large eye, making them ideal for working with canvas.
- Threads: Choose either wool or cotton threads specifically designed for needlepoint. Threads come in a wide range of colors and textures. When I first began needlepointing I worked with both DMC Cotton and Pepperpot Silk; these two threads are simple to work with as a beginner. As you advance in the hobby, you will learn which thread options or brands you prefer best.
- Scissors: A good pair of scissors for cutting threads.
- Frame: Optional, but using a frame, also known as stretcher bars, can help keep the canvas taut while you work. This is especially important for when the canvas will later be finished. If it’s been stitched in hand, the canvas may have warped or stretched slightly, and require blocking before finishing.
2. Basic Stitches
- Tent Stitch: This is the most basic stitch in needlepoint. It’s a diagonal stitch that covers one canvas intersection or square. It can be worked in a single direction (continental stitch) or a two-way method (basketweave stitch).
- Continental Stitch: This is a basic straight stitch that goes from the bottom left to the top right of a canvas square.
- Basketweave Stitch: This is a method of working the tent stitch in a way that creates a woven effect on the back of the canvas, providing more stability while also helping to prevent distortion of the canvas.
3. Getting Started
- Choose a Canvas: Select a needlepoint canvas that catches your eye or speaks to you. There is bound to be something for everyone! Read this post where I suggest some of my favorite beginner needlepoint canvas ideas. Also, many shop websites have a dedicated “beginner” section when shopping.
- Thread Selection: Decide on the colors and types of threads you’ll use for each section of your design. Consider texture and color variations to add depth and interest. Again, if this is your first project, opt to work with easier threads such as or Essentials.
- Start Stitching: Begin stitching using the basic stitches you’ve learned. I highly recommend checking out stitch tips from KC Needlepoint or Needlepoint.com for more detailed video-type instruction. Follow the design and use the appropriate stitches for each area.
4. Tips and Tricks:
- Keep Tension Consistent: Maintain even tension on your stitches to ensure a neat and uniform appearance. This is where stretcher bars come in handy!
- Practice on a Sample: Before starting a larger project, practice different stitches on a sampler to become comfortable with the techniques. I often will practice decorative stitches on the side of my canvas before deciding which one I want to go with!
- Use Good Lighting: Adequate lighting will help you see the canvas and threads clearly. I personally use an from Amazon. You can see a variety of my Needlepoint tool recommendations in my Amazon storefront.
- Be Patient: Needlepoint requires patience and attention to detail. Take your time and enjoy the process. I’m personally guilty of sometimes running out of patience with one project and picking up a new one, and that’s okay! Multiple WIP (works in progress) syndrome is something a lot of us needlepointers suffer from!
Remember that needlepoint is a skill that improves with practice. Don’t be discouraged if your first project aren’t perfect. As you gain experience, you’ll develop your own techniques and style. And take it from someone who taught herself how to needlepoint, you can do it! Don’t get discouraged, and if you do, there’s a large community of needlepointers – both on Facebook and Instagram – whom love to encourage on projects and give tips and advice.
If you’re still struggling, check out your local needlepoint shop for in-person instruction. There are also a variety of online courses specific for teaching the basics for beginner needlepoint stitchers.
