Needlepoint Basics
By Cheryl Fall, About.com Guide to Needlepoint
Needlepoint is worked in a variety of stitches in wool, cotton or silk over a canvas or fabric mesh, one stitch at a time. Learn the basic stitches to get started, and textured or decorative stitches to add an extra dimension to your stitching. Find our what supplies are needed, how to use tools, and how to finish your canvas to create your own hand stitched heirlooms.
- Textured and Decorative Needlepoint Stitches
- Finishing and Blocking a Needlepoint Project
- Recommended Projects for Needlepoint Beginners
Needlepoint Terminology
Learn needlepoint lingo, and take a tour of the materials used when stitching a needlepoint pattern.
Using the Patterns
The needlepoint patterns on this site may need a little massaging in order for them to be easier to view and work with. Here you'll find tips for using the patterns.
- Printing and Enlarging the Patterns
- Working a Design in Multiple Colors
- Adding Textured Stitches to your Needlepoint Projects
- Preparing Skeins and Hanks of Wool for Needlepoint
Beginner Needlepoint Stitches
Every needlepoint project starts with a single stitch. These most commonly used stitches for needlepoint are from the tent stitch family, and are worked diagonally over one intersection of canvas.
- The Tent Stitch Family
- The Continental Stitch
- The Basketweave Stitch
- The Half-Cross Stitch
- Basic Satin Stitch
Textured and Decorative Needlepoint Stitches
Add texture to your needlepoint projects by using textured or decorative stitches.
Finishing and Blocking a Needlepoint Project
After completing the stitching, your finished canvas will need to be blocked and finished. These links will guide you through the process.
- Blocking a Needlepoint Canvas
- Blocking Board Basics
- Sewing a Basic Pillow
- How to Make a Needlepoint Bag or Pouch
Recommended Projects for Needlepoint Beginners
These patterns are a perfect way to learn basic and textured needlepoint stitches, and how to read a needlepoint chart.
