Let’s start from the beginning
If you’re new to needlepoint, this is a good place to land. Here’s a clear, no-stress walkthrough of what needlepoint is, how it works, and what you actually need to know before stitching your first canvas. Nothing overwhelming — just the basics!
What is needlepoint?
Needlepoint is a slow, steady form of stitching where you fill a painted canvas with tiny diagonal stitches. Think of it as a calming mix of creativity and repetition. You follow the design, stitch by stitch, until the whole piece comes together.
Mesh sizes, simplified
You’ll see canvases labeled with numbers like 13-mesh or 18-mesh. This just refers to how many holes are in one inch of canvas.
13–mesh: Bigger holes, easier to see and stitch, a great starting point
18–mesh: Smaller holes, allows more detail for space, best once you’re comfortable
If you’re new, 13–mesh is the easiest and most enjoyable place to start!
Getting familiar with your canvas
Every hand-painted canvas has a few things worth noticing:
The painted design:
This is your roadmap — you’ll stitch directly over the colors.
Margins:
The extra canvas around the edges. It gives you room to hold and work.
Stitch direction:
Keeping your stitches leaning in the same direction makes everything look smooth and polished.
Once you spot these things, the canvas feels a lot less mysterious.
How to choose your first canvas
Go for something simple and fun — nothing too complicated. A small design (around 3–6 inches) with clear shapes and clean color blocks is perfect. 13–mesh is ideal for beginners, and choosing a design you love makes the process so much more enjoyable.
The tools you ACTUALLY need
Needlepoint is refreshingly simple when it comes to supplies. You’ll want:
Your Canvas. Your Needle. Your Thread. Your Scissors.
That's it. Really. Check out my favorite needlepoint tool recommendations.
Your first stitches
Start by picking one area of the canvas and stitching in a simple tent stitch — continental or basketweave are great beginner options. Keep your tension relaxed, take your time, and don't be afraid to practice before! Give it a row or two and it'll start to feel natural.
