Needlepoint Directions for the Left-Handed

Needlepoint directions are typically printed for the ease of right-handed people. The stitches are worked from left to right. This can make it difficult for a left-handed person to follow, although not impossible. There are certain ways you can stitch, as a lefty, that will be much easier than simply following project directions as written.

Things You'll Need

• Needlepoint pattern
• Thread
• Needle
• Fabric
• Scissors

Instructions

Mirror the Pattern Image

1. Follow the needlepoint directions as to picking out thread colors, fabric color and weave.

2. Look at the pattern and decide which section you are going to start with. Most crafters suggest starting with the smallest colored areas of a design.

3. Begin your section in the top left corner. Right-handed stitchers would start in the top right, but since you are left handed, begin in the top left.

4. Make your stitches rise from right to left. This is an exact mirror image of what the directions tell you to do. The slant of your thread will be opposite most other needlepoint you see, but there are no rules stating which directions your stitches must go.

5. Continue your stitching from right to left throughout the entire needlework pattern.

References

• Needlepoint for Fun: Left-handed Needlepointing

Resources

• Needlepoint for Fun: Instructions for Left-handed needlepointers (PDF)