Needlepoint Canvas Gives You Endless Possibilities

Have you ever been curious about needlepoint? This hobby has been a popular form of art and relaxation for thousands of years. Not only does needlepoint create beautiful artwork, it is a good workout for the mind (concentration) and body (your fingers). But the first thing you need in order to begin a needlepoint project is a needlepoint canvas. What is Needlepoint Canvas?
Well, simply put, a needlepoint canvas is a fabric with a large mesh, or area with holes. Needlepoint canvas is usually made from cotton or linen. Lately, plastic has been used in canvases because of its lightweight and inexpensive qualities. It is a cheaper alternative canvas that is very well liked today. There are three main types of needlepoint canvas that are popular.

• Monofilament or Mono Canvas—This is the most popular canvas used by needlepoint artists in the United States. This type of canvas consists of single multi-ply threads, which intersect each other. Each of these intersections have one over or under crossing.

• Penelope Canvas or Double or Duo Canvas—Penelope canvas is the most popular canvas used by needlepoint artists in Europe. This canvas has two threads that intersect. What is nice about a Penelope canvas is that these two threads can be split to make the mesh smaller. This allows you to create elaborate details in your needlepoint.

• Interlock Canvas—Now do not be fooled with an Interlock canvas. Although, it may look like a mono canvas, it is very different. The threads of an Interlock canvas do not cross over each other at the intersection. Instead, these threads are woven around each other. Many people enjoy Interlock canvas because it are less expensive than other canvases. However, just because this type of canvas costs less does not mean it is poor quality. An interlock canvas is, in fact, stable.

Where to Find Canvas
This is why I absolutely love the Internet. You can find anything you want by just having a computer and an Internet hook-up. And, if you conduct a search for needlepoint canvas kits, you have hit the jackpot! The Internet is abundant with first-rate shops that specialize in needlepoint canvas.

• Plastic—Now, just because plastic needlepoint canvases are less expensive and not as fancy looking as linen or fabric canvases, it does not mean that they are not as nice to use for your needlepoint projects. Plastic canvas uses a simple technique that is perfect for beginners or children who have just been introduced to the art of needlepoint. A great place to purchase plastic canvas is at Annie’s Plastic Canvas at www.anniesplasticcanvas.com. As the name of the business suggests, this shop specifically sells plastic canvases.

• Linens and Fabrics—If you are looking for cotton or linen canvases, they are simple to find, too. Just check out The Regal Rabbit at www.regalrabbit.com. They have all types of canvases to choose from, starting with your traditional needlepoint canvases to more modern canvas styles. And not only will you find all kinds of great canvas, you can also pick up other needlepoint accessories, such as scissors and needles.

If you seem overwhelmed with the choices of needlepoint canvases, do not worry. Any needlepoint canvas you choose to work with will be great. In fact, try working with all different types of canvas in order to get a feel for the one you enjoy the most.

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