Needlepoint Stitch Directory

Needlepoint is a needle work art that is enjoying a newfound resurgence.  The oldest form of canvas work, needlepoint is related to embroidery.

In needlepoint, wool yarn is stitched through a very stiff and open weave canvas, with the designs covering the entire canvas piece. 

Because the canvas is stiff, needlepoint projects are somewhat limited compared to other projects made with softer, more pliable backings.

Once the basic tent stitches have been mastered, to find free needlepoint patterns and projects, take a look at our free project page.

Basically needlepoint has three stitches central to its work: continental stitch, half stitch, and basket weave stitch.  However, many more stitches are formed by combining these three basic tent stitches.

What is the easiest needlepoint stitch?

The continental half stitch is considered by many to be the easiest needlepoint stitch. However, once the three basic tent stitches have been practiced and are mastered, needlepointers can learn to combine them to create hundreds of other stitches.

When working on a needlepoint project, it is important to make sure that the canvas does not stretch.  That is why many needlepointers prefer the basket weave stitch.

Since the basket weave stitch is done by skipping and staggering the alternating rows on the diagonal, it creates a woven pattern on the back of the canvas and holds the mesh threads.  This ensures that the canvas does not stretch and maintains its shape. 

Another important stitch is the mosaic stitch.  When all portions of this stitch are complete, a square shape two stitches high and two stitches wide is formed on the canvas.

The stitch is worked on the diagonal and is made of three stitches that form a square, starting with a small stitch going over one canvas thread, then a longer stitch one going over two canvas theads, and then a final diagonal going over one canvas thread.

The mosaic stitch is very versatile and can be made with many variations, changing the look of the needlepoint work with very little stress and new stitch knowledge.

This page is full of tutorials, videos, and guides to teach you the various, and beyond-the-basics combination stitches. Using these stitches enables the finished work to look clean, finished, and completed by a professional.

Scroll down to see our complete needlepoint stitch directory.  You will be well on your way to creating interesting and professional looking needlework.