Working With Needlepoint Canvas

Have you given much thought to needlepoint canvases?

This page provides all of the information that is needed to understand needlepoint canvases.  Different types of canvases are explained, as well as tapestry canvases and even ways to repair canvases.

It is sometimes surprising to stitchers to learn how much the needlepoint canvas choice affects the finished needlepoint project. Each of the different canvases have attributes that make it the best canvas for certain projects.

What are the types of needlepoint canvas?

The four basic types of needlepoint canvases are Penelope, Mono, Interlock, and Plastic.  

Penelope canvas is also called Double mesh or Duo canvas.  It is a strong canvas that will work best for items which will experience much use and wear and tear.  It is woven with double threads in both directions that can be pulled apart for making small details.

Mono canvas, also known as Uni-mesh, Uni-canvas or Uni, is the perfect canvas to use if making upholstery. Bargello needlepoint works well on this particular canvas, and it’s a good canvas for those who have done needlepoint before.

Mono canvas has some “give” in it which makes it a good choice for cushions and chair covers.  However, if the design has areas of half cross stitch, this canvas will distort and not keep its shape.

Interlock canvas is the best choice for beginners to needlepoint. This canvas is made with two threads twisted together in both directions, preventing fraying and distortion.

Plastic canvas is very versatile.  It is strong and stiff, making it perfect for needlepointing 3D projects.  Since it is molded and not woven, the canvas can be cut without fraying. Kids learning to needlepoint do well with this canvas. 

Take a look at the free plastic canvas projects page to try this out!

How do you keep needlepoint canvases from fraying?

Except for plastic canvas, other needlepoint canvases will eventually fray when cut.  There are several ways to prevent this common problem.

• Sewn on Bias Tape: Because the fabric bias tape is very soft, it is important to sew it on to keep it in place.  Use bias tape that is at least ½” wide for best coverage.
• Hemming Tape: Hemming tapes, with their sticky backing, keep needlepoint canvases from fraying and they are very thin.  The backing adhesive is strong enough to keep the tape in place.
• Artist Tape: This acid-free tape is very strong and sturdy, but has a tendency to fall off if the project is not worked on a frame.  The advantage to this tape is that it won’t damage the canvas if left on for a long period.
• Masking Tape: I have always used masking tape, and before the other types of tape were made available, most people used this to keep the canvas from fraying. It does leave a yellow residue on the canvas if left on long enough, but usually that portion of the needlepoint canvas is cut off.

Scroll down this page to learn more about needlepoint canvas and its importance in project usage. How to repair canvas, choose gauge, mend torn canvas, and washing instructions are just a few of the topics to be explored!