Needlepoint and tapestry
Canvas work: yarn stitched through a stiff open-weave canvas, often covering it completely in tent stitch.
What it is
Canvas work: wool or thread stitched through stiff open canvas, usually in small tent stitches, covering it completely.
Who it suits
Anyone who likes colouring in: painted canvases show you exactly where each colour goes. Great for cushions and keepsakes.
What you need
Canvas (13 mesh to start), wool, a size 20 tapestry needle, masking tape, scissors and optional stretcher bars.
A first project
A small painted-canvas kit, finished as a framed piece or cushion.
The needlepoint and tapestry guides
Beginner's guide
What you need
Techniques and stitches
How to work continental tent stitch
Rows of slanted stitches: the easiest way to learn needlepoint, ideal for lines and small areas.
How to work basketweave stitch
The best tent stitch for backgrounds: diagonal rows that barely distort the canvas and wear very well.
First project
Mistakes and fixes
Next steps
Sources
All checked 1 November 2026. We read these; we did not test the products ourselves.
