Blog
Needlepoint: Get the Point!
Needlepoint is a hobby that has been around for many years. But what exactly is needlepoint? Well, the American Needlepoint Guide defines needlepoint as “any counted or free stitchery worked by hand with a threaded needle on a readily countable ground.” So, simply put, needlepoint is a form of needle artwork. Also known as “canvas work” or “tapestry work,” needlepoint is worked with threads—such as wool, silk, and sometimes cotton—traditionally on a canvas mesh. Stitches range from very basic to the extremely elaborate, depending on the artist’s skill.
The History of Needlepoint
Like mentioned before, needlepoint has been enjoyed by hobbyists for
thousands and thousands of years. In fact, there are actual references
in the Bible to intricate needlework on religious structures, such as
worship tents in ancient Israel. In 13th-Century Europe, needlework
was prepared on woven linen fabrics that were similar to the canvas
mesh of today. Creating tapestries on a loom was very popular back then,
too. In the 16th Century, people began to use steel needles, instead
of fishbone, to needlepoint. This allowed people to create more beautiful
and elaborate forms of art because the needle was made from stronger
material.
Even early Colonial America caught on to the relaxing hobby. At first, early American women did not have the time to sit and stitch. They were way too busy with their daily activities. However, after years went by, a method of printing colored charts for needlepoint designs were invented. These “charts” made the hobby less time consuming, so women could partake in it more. And nowadays, as you know, many women enjoy this wonderful hobby.
Tools of the Trade
Almost every art form has specific tools that are used for that art.
Needlepoint is no different. Keep in mind that if you use low-quality
tools, your end result may reflect the poor utensils. Try to use premium
tools. That way your projects will show a better result. Remember, quality
not quantity.
• Threads—The most commonly used threads for needlepoint
work is wool, pearl cotton, and six-strand cotton. Some people also
use silk, but that becomes very pricey. For the beginner, wool is recommended.
• Tapestry needle—Needles used for needlepoint are referred
to as tapestry needles. A good tapestry needle has an elongated eye
(for easy threading), a blunt point, and a tapered body. Tapestry needles
range in size from 13 to 26. The higher the number, the finer the canvas
mesh it should be used for. Do your research before you purchase a needle.
If you choose the right needle, it will make your needlework more relaxing.
• Fabric—The fabric that needlepoint artists use is called
the canvas. The canvas is typically made from cotton or linen, however
plastic-made canvases are very popular in modern needlework projects.
The three basic types of canvases are: monofilament canvas, Penelope
canvas, and interwoven (interlock) canvas.
Types of Stitches
Needlepoint is so much fun because you have so many types of stitches
to choose from. Some stitches are used more then others, so here is
a list of some of the most popular main stitch categories.
• Diagonal or Slated—These stitches are great for filling
large areas, like backgrounds.
• Straight—These types of stitches are worked either straight
up and down or straight side to side. These stitches do not distort
the canvas.
• Box—These stitches make square or rectangular patterns.
They are great for creating borders.
• Cross—Used for filling in small spaces, cross stitches
make x-shaped stitches.
If you absolutely love needlepoint and want to meet others like you, there are plenty of needlepoint clubs that help bring hobbyists together to enjoy the art form. Also, the American Needlepoint Guild, Inc. (AGN) is a non-profit organization whose main goal is educational and cultural development through partaking in the needlepoint arts. The great ting about this organization is that it is completely open to anyone who appreciates stitching—armatures and professionals alike. To learn more about this organization or how you can become involved, go to their website at www.needlepoint.org. The American Needlepoint Guild offers a great opportunity to help others through the art of needlepoint.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copyright © 2006
