Next, stitch a sample of the stitch on a scrap of canvas, following the stitch diagram provided on the journal page. In this sample, it is the straight knitting stitch.
There is no right or wrong size of canvas - simply use what you have available.
Most needlepoint stitches are suitable for use on mono or interlock canvas. However, several work best on penelope canvas. Also, stitches can take on a different apprearance depending on the type of canvas used.
Because of the differences with canvas types, it is also nice to stitch a sample on both a mono and penelope canvas, so that you can see and "feel" the difference for yourself.
Experimentation is the key!