Beginners Start Here
New To Needlepoint? You’re In The Right Place.
Needlepoint is easier than it looks. We’ll walk you through what you need, how to get started, and everything you need to make your first stitch.
Needlepoint 101
So, What Exactly Is Needlepoint?
Needlepoint is a type of embroidery worked on an open-weave canvas using a needle and fiber. You stitch over the canvas intersections to bring the design to life, one stitch at a time.
And good news: you don’t need to know a hundred stitches to get started.
The Basics
All You Need To Get Started
No giant supply list required. Start with a few essentials and you’ll be stitching in no time.
A Canvas
This is your design and the foundation of your project.
Shop Canvases
Fibers
The colorful part. Your fibers fill in the painted areas of your canvas.
Shop Fibers
The Little Extras
A needle is essential. A needle minder, stretcher bars, scissors, and other notions can make stitching even easier.
Shop Notions
Your First Project
How To Choose Your First Canvas
For your first project, look for a design you genuinely love and keep the details simple. A 13 mesh canvas is usually a great place to start because the holes are larger and easier to see.
Beginner-friendly designs with larger areas of color can also make learning your first few stitches feel much more approachable.
Look For
- 13 Mesh
- Larger Areas of Color
- A Manageable Size
- A Design You’re Excited to Stitch
Let’s Talk Mesh
13 Mesh Or 18 Mesh?
Mesh simply refers to how many canvas intersections there are per inch. The higher the number, the smaller and more detailed the canvas.
13 Mesh
Best For
- Beginners
- Relaxed stitching
- Larger fibers
- Projects with slightly larger details
The holes are larger and easier to see, which is why we often recommend 13 mesh for beginners.
Shop 13 Mesh Canvases18 Mesh
Best For
- More detailed designs
- Smaller stitches
- Finer fibers
- Stitchers ready for a little more detail
The canvas is finer, which allows for more intricate designs and smaller details.
Shop 18 Mesh Canvases
Pick Your Fibers
What Should You Stitch With?
The right fiber depends on your canvas and mesh size, but you don’t need to overthink it. Start with something easy to work with and build from there.
Silk
Smooth, vibrant, and a favorite for beautiful coverage.
Silk-Wool
Soft, forgiving, and easy to work with.
Metallic
Perfect when your project needs a little shine.
Good To Know
Questions Every Beginner Asks
What Mesh Should A Beginner Use?
We usually recommend 13 mesh for beginners. The holes are larger and easier to see.
Compare 13 And 18 MeshHow Do I Know Which Fiber To Buy?
Start with your canvas mesh. Different fibers work best with different mesh sizes, and our Fiber Guide can help you find the right match for your project.
Explore The Fiber GuideDo I Need Stretcher Bars?
Stretcher bars help keep your canvas taut while you work. Our Notions Guide has more on how they help.
Explore The Notions GuideDo I Knot My Thread?
There’s no need to knot the end before you start stitching. Our stitch guides show you how to get going.
Explore The Stitch GuideWhat Stitch Should I Learn First?
The tent stitch is the foundation of needlepoint and a perfect place to begin.
Learn The Tent StitchWhat Does Finishing Mean?
Finishing is turning your stitched canvas into a finished piece, like a pillow, ornament, or framed art.
What Do I Do When I Make A Mistake?
Mistakes happen to every stitcher. Cowtown Classroom is a good place to start, and we’re always happy to help in the shop.
Visit Cowtown Classroom