Needlepoint Glossary: Essential Terms to Know
Mesh Size
Refers to the number of holes per inch in a canvas, essentially how many openings fit into one inch. A 13‑mesh canvas has 13 holes per inch and larger openings for thicker threads. An 18‑mesh canvas has 18 holes per inch, smaller openings, and allows for finer detail.
Mono Canvas
A single-thread canvas known for durability and flexibility. It’s the most common type used by stitchers because it adapts well to different techniques and stitches.
Tapestry Needle
A blunt-tipped needle with a large eye that prevents tearing the canvas. Always pair your needle size with the canvas mesh for best results.
Needle Size
Choose your needle based on the mesh size of your canvas:
Size 16 for 8–10 mesh
Size 18 for 10–12 mesh
Size 20 for 12–14 mesh
Size 22 for 14–18 mesh
Stitch Painting
A style of design where each intersection of the canvas is painted a specific color. It removes guesswork while stitching, but usually costs more because of the detailed handwork.
LNS (Local Needlepoint Store)
A specialty store where you can buy canvases, threads, and supplies, take classes, and often get finishing services.
WIP (Work In Progress)
A needlepoint project that’s currently in progress, whether it’s on your frame, in your carry bag, or set aside for later.
Threads
Available in a variety of materials, including silk, wool, cotton, and metallic blends. Match the thread thickness to your canvas mesh for even coverage.
Skein
A neatly wound bundle of thread that you buy from a shop. Once you cut it for use, each length becomes an individual strand.
Ply
The number of strands twisted together to form one piece of thread. Some threads can be “plied,” meaning you can separate them to make thinner strands.
Dye Lot
Threads are dyed in batches. Even slight color variations between dye lots can be noticeable on a finished piece. Always buy enough from the same batch before starting.
Waste Knot
A knotting method used to secure your first stitches by anchoring the tail under subsequent stitches, preventing unraveling.
Tent Stitch
The foundation stitch of needlepoint, made on a diagonal. The key variations are half-cross, continental, and basketweave. They look identical from the front but differ in coverage and thread use.
Frogging
The act of removing stitches when you make a mistake, because you “rip it, rip it.”
Needleminder
A small magnetic accessory placed on your canvas to hold your needle when not in use, so you don’t lose it mid-stitch.
Blocking
A finishing step that reshapes your canvas to its original straight form after stitching causes slight warping.
Finishing
The final transformation of a stitched canvas into a display item, like a pillow, ornament, keychain, or framed art. Many stitchers send their work to professional finishers for this step.
