Needlepoint Basics...
Compliments of Caroline's Thread & Canvas

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Canvas

Sizing

• Largest standard = 7 mesh rug size

• Standard sizes = 10, 12, 13, 14, 16, 18

• Congress Cloth = smaller; less commonly used

• Mesh # = number of threads per inch (ex. 10 mesh = 10 threads per inch; 18 mesh = 18 threads per inch)

• The greater the mesh size (example: 18) = the more detailed options in designs

• Popular sizes: 14 & 18

Types of Canvas

• Interlock
  - Threads interwoven (warp & weft)
  - Durable; less expensive

• Mono
  - Horizontal and vertical threads overlap
  - Used specifically for painted canvases
  - Advantages: being able to read threads; more give with needle; feels good!
  - More expensive than interlock
  - 18 mono available in colors

• Penelope
  -Most popular for option of petite point
  -Used with pre-worked canvases

Threads (A major topic by itself )

Options:

• Wools
  - Patemayan
  - Appleton
  - Medici
  - More. . .

• Pearl Cottons
  - Sizes 3, 5, 8, 12
  - Size of canvas determines size of pearl cotton used

• Other threads
  - Overdyes, rayons, blends, silks, metallics

Stitches:

• Many, many stitches = needlepoint
• Basketweave, Tent, and Half-Cross = most basic
  - Stitches look same on top, but are executed differently
  - Different reasons for using each
• Basic stitch is like executing first half of a cross-stitch
• Most visible difference between "B, T & H", is apparent on back-
  side of canvas

Needles

• Sizes 20--22 good with 14 canvas; individual preferences apply
• Tapestry needles duller points; don't split canvas threads

Why Basketweave???

• It keeps the canvas from distorting
• Durability; strong backing for long-term use