How to Choose Needlepoint Canvas for Your Project

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By Althea DeBrule
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Mono Canvas

Needlepoint canvas is the ground fabric on which the stitches are made. It is usually made of cotton, a natural fiber that allows the canvas to stretch and breathe. White and beige are the most common canvas colors; but in recent years grey, green, and specially dyed marbled effects have been created for more vivid and striking designs. Consider these important facts when choosing canvas for your needlepoint project.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Needlepoint Canvas
Ruler
Needlepoint Project
Sample Thread

Step 1

Choose needlepoint canvas based on the kind of project you will stitch and the ultimate purpose of the finished needlepoint. Canvas comes in a wide range of sizes or mesh based on the number of threads per inch both horizontally and vertically. For example, 14-mesh canvas has 14 threads per inch and 18-mesh canvas has 18 threads per inch. These are the two most common sizes of canvas used in stitching needlepoint projects.
Step 2

Mono Needlepoint Canvas

Select from one of two main types of needlepoint canvas for your project. Mono/interlock and Penelope are the basic kinds of needlepoint canvas. Mono canvas is a single thread, even weave stiff fabric that comes in sizes #10 to #24 threads per inch. It is the preferred canvas for beginners. Interlock canvas has two vertical threads that are woven with a single horizontal thread. It comes in sizes #4 to #18 threads per inch, and is not recommended for use in upholstery designs like pillows and bench or chair covers.
Step 3

Use Interlock canvas for designs that are
Step 4

Penelope Canvas

Choose Penelope canvas when stitching needlepoint designs that have a lot of detail and a mixture of tiny stitches such as petit point along with long stitches like Bargello needlepoint. Another name for Penelope canvas is double canvas because of its distinctive weave of double horizontal and vertical threads that make a very stable canvas.
Step 5

Choose the size canvas that compliments the design and threads you plan to use. If the mesh is too small, it will damage the threads; if too large the thread will not cover well and unwanted or unsightly canvas will show through.
Step 6

Get the advice of experienced stitchers. Needlepoint shop owners have a wealth of knowledge about needlepoint canvas and its uses. Don't be afraid to ask questions about type, size and amount of canvas needed for a needlepoint project.