New Here?
Your needlepoint starting point
Whether you're picking your very first canvas or brushing up on a stitch, this page has everything you need to get going with confidence.
How It Works
From canvas to finished piece
1
Choose your canvas
Pick a hand-painted canvas - our Beginner friendly badge flags easy first projects.
2
Pick your fibers
Match threads to your canvas, or ask us in-store for a pairing.
3
Learn the stitches
Start with tent stitch and basketweave - both covered below.
4
Finish & frame
Block your finished canvas, then turn it into a pillow, ornament, or framed piece.
Cowtown Classroom
Class is in session, y'all
A little stitchin’ school, Cowtown style. 🪡 Meet Cowtown Classroom, our Instagram series packed with handy how-tos, stitching tips, and needlepoint know-how. Tap any post to learn a little something, then give us a follow so you don’t miss the next lesson!
Follow us on Instagram
COWTOWN CLASSROOM
Beginner basics
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. A few basics go a long way when you’re getting started. From picking the right canvas to making sense of mesh sizes and stitching terms, consider this your cheat sheet before you dive in.
A few things you might be wondering.
What is needlepoint?
Needlepoint is a form of embroidery where yarn or fiber is stitched through an open-weave canvas to create a design. Think paint-by-numbers, but with thread!
What do I need to start needlepointing?
Keep it simple: a canvas, fibers, tapestry needle, and scissors are the essentials. A needle minder and stretcher bars are helpful extras. Shop notions
Should I start with 13 or 18 mesh?
We recommend 13 mesh for your first project. The holes are larger and easier to see and stitch through. Save 18 mesh for when you’re ready to level up.
How do I know which fibers to buy?
Our products are manufactured both locally and globally. We carefully select our manufacturing partners to ensure our products are high quality and a fair value.
What if I make a mistake?
It happens! Stitches can be carefully removed and redone. We’ve got a whole lesson on fixing mistakes in Cowtown Classroom on Instagram.
Where can I learn more?
You’ve got plenty of homework, y’all. Browse our fiber guide, stitches guide, and notions guide. Or, head to our Instagram for even more tips and how-tos.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to help
Not sure where to start or what you need? Send us a note and we'll point you in the right direction.