Needlepointing is a hobby I’ve had for a few years now – I started during the pandemic and have been stitching ever since! The world of needlepoint can be super intimidating. So I wanted to make a simple post that shows you everything you need to know to start needlepointing!
Enjoy!
Edit: I’ve designed my own needlepoint canvases! Check them out here.
The Necessities
Now in reality, to begin needlepointing all that is really REQUIRED is three things:
- A Canvas
- Threads
- Needles
These are items you can easily get at your local needlepoint store (often referred to as LNS), or online! Needlepoint stores typically give you a few needles when you purchase a canvas, which is what I use. But some people also prefer purchasing specialty needles.
When it comes to threads regardless of if you’re buying in-store or online, you can opt to have the matching threads added to your order (this may not be the case for Etsy). The prices of threads range depending on the material uses and how much. DMC thread is a more affordable thread option and what I use for the majority of my canvases. But it’s all about personal preference when it comes to the finish you want and your budget! Overall, DMC is a great starter option.
For a starter canvas, I recommend something with only a few colors on a smaller canvas. Most needlepoint shops have a “beginner” section on their online stores.
The Nice-to-Have’s
These items are not 100% necessary, but they’re items I highly recommend to make your life easier right off the bat! And honestly, to me they are necessity at this point.
Mini scissors are going to make your life so much easier for only a few dollars. The ones I linked you can find at most needlepoint shops, but they are a cheaper on Amazon if you’re on a budget. These are also TSA approved!
Some people argue you don’t need a needle minder, but I’ve had one since I started and can’t imagine needlepointing without it. I don’t like guessing where my needles are – so a needle tin is a new addition to my supplies and is a game changer. If I have more than one needle on a needle minder I often misplaced them and found them on the floor – not good!
Project bags can help you stay organized and only cost a few dollars. There are “fancy” project bags out there, but I personally love the ones I linked above from Target. Project bags have been a game changer for me as well. I keep my canvas and all of my threads for that project in one bag together.
Learning the Process
One of the most intimidating things about starting a new hobby is learning how to do it! Needlepoint can seem super complicated for beginners but it is fairly easy to get the hang of.
If you go in-person to a shop to purchase supplies, most places can quickly help you learn a basic stitch. Some shops even host classes for beginners! But if you are buying online and learning independently at home – fear not. Over the past few years so many online resources have popped up that makes learning easier than ever.
One way to find resources is via TikTok – just search how to needlepoint. Shops like Lycette and Penny Linn also have fantastic online resources to learn the basics and new stitches. I have also used this book to learn new stitches, but even if you’re a beginner and need the basics it can be really helpful!
Needlepoint.com even offers virtual classes!
Beginner Kits
Want to make your life easy and get a kit with everything you need? Plenty of online stores offer beginner kits that include what you need to get started!
Lycette, Needlepoint.com, and Penny Linn Designs offer great beginner kits. Many shops on Etsy even have some great beginner kit options.
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I hope this post was helpful for those of you who want to get into needlepoint! It is such a great lifelong hobby that you can do anywhere. Start needlepointing today with these easy steps.
Cheers!
xoxo
Jayme
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