Counted canvas designs
Wonderful Needlepoint and Counted canvas work!
This is very interesting and wonderful world of different threads!
Why is it so magical? Because you could create different textures with just couple
threads: from Silk to Wool, from cotton to Perles. Add some sparkles or leave it in
traditional way. There will be depth in colors, true illusion and kaleidoscope of stitches, burst of everything mixing together!
Sometimes Needlepoint is called “Fiber Art” as it is really the way of creation.
Let’s take a look at materials:
1. All kind of threads
Very often in the key of every counted needlepoint chart you could see thick threads, woolen, non divided silk threads or metallics. Designers use different companies such as Caron, Threadworx, DMC Perle, even ribbons to archive interesting 3D effect and color. If you compare plain cross stitch to needlepoint and other counted canvas designs, you could see how your work is beginning to thrive. Literally.
Sometimes you want to make a conversion from one color to another. Especially of that particular thread has been discontinued and you need to finish your work. Go ahead, it is Needlepoint! Possibilities are endless. Threads could be found here.
2. Canvas and congress cloth
These two options are used for counted canvas work. Canvas is more strong woven option for your work, it comes in 14, 13, 18 counts. It is similar to Aida cloth but is using especially for purposes of needlepoint.
If you prefer smaller count and more delicate look, use Congress cloth. Please note, not every thread, especially thick one will go thru it.
3. Special accessories
Oh yes, there are special things around counted canvas work! First of all you will need a nice pair of stretcher bars. Not qsnaps, not hoops, BARS. They made from soft pine wood, allow to reuse it couple times after you finish stitchery. They are perfect for all needlepoint, cost a very fair price and a must have for you!
When you buy design, they usually put all sizes and materials needed for the project. If the size is not listed, I will help you to figure out. It should be little bit more than your stitchery area. Besides stretcher bars you will need tacks. Very useful with special unpinning tool, so you could use them again and again.
4. Charts
In counted canvas there are no that much Designers like in cross stitch but they all are very special and have their own style!
–Needle Delights Originals and it’s owner Kathy Rees. She is a burst of colors! I was very pleased to meet Kathy at Nashville Needlework Market in 2020 and took a closer look at her creations. I am still in search of the the design that I have to stitch first as there are so may of them! My “problem” is that I also love colors! I do love my job because of colors.
–Brenda E.Kocher and her wonderful designs. She enjoys blending different colors and textures and she uses very easy to offer threads in her designs. I am especially glad to make a note of this. I just love her nostalgic designs, my favourite is Pine Trees.
-Kurdy Biggs and Threedles Needleart Design. Fantastic classics with lots of silk threads, bicones, textured threads and even hand painted canvases.
– Deb Bee’s Designs: a power of geometry! Her “Royal Garden” in Greens and Purples is my absolute best seller!
Wonderful Needlepoint and Counted canvas work! This is very interesting and wonderful world of different threads! Why is it so magical? Because you could create different textures with just couple threads: from Silk to Wool, from cotton to Perles. Add some sparkles or leave it in traditional way. There will be depth in colors, true…