How to Make Your First Needlepoint Stitch

Every needlepoint project should begin with the finished product in mind. Your completed needlepoint project should be free of lumps and bumps and prepared for the needlepoint finishing process. As a result, the very first stitch should firmly attach the thread to the canvas. Here are the three most common ways to make your initial stitch.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Needlepoint Project
• Tapestry Needle
• Thread
• Embroidery Scissors

1. Waste Knot. Use a waste knot to temporarily hold your thread in place until you have worked enough design stitches to cover. Make a knot in the end of your thread. Keeping the knotted end on top, draw the thread through a few stitches from where you will make your initial stitch and in the direction you will be stitching. Bring your needle up where you will place your initial stitch and make the first stitch. Continue to stitch, working over the tail until you reach the knot. Carefully clip the knot and continue to stitch the design area.

2. 
   Waste & Away Knots

   Away Knot. Use an away knot when working design areas with decorative stitches that leave open canvas spaces, or in small design areas where it is difficult to secure the thread. The away knot is made similar to a waste knot, but is placed at least 2 needle lengths away from where you will be stitching.

3. Anchor Stitch. When working an area where the initial stitch cannot be anchored with an away knot, use the anchor stitch. This stitch is made by holding the thread with your fingers under the canvas as you work 3-5 anchoring stitches.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to cut the canvas or your stitches when snipping the knots and excess thread.

Resources

• A Guide to Needlepoint
• American Needlepoint Guild
• Embroiderers Guild of America
• Get Your Copy of The Bargello Needlepoint Christmas Ornament Series eBook

[mattlee]

on 7/6/2008 thanks

[Desula]

on 7/3/2008 This is gorgeous, I may have to try this one day.

[purrfect1969]

on 7/1/2008 Thanks for the tips.

[vikki9]

on 6/29/2008 Excellent! *****

[FUSILLI1OF4]

on 6/29/2008 Very informative! 5*