How to Select a Needlepoint Kit You Will Love
When choosing the best needlepoint kit for you (or whomever you're gifting it to), consider the following factors:
- Your previous needlepoint experience
- How large do you need the mesh to be (so you can see it)
- The type of threads.
- Designs you like.
In this blog post, we break these elements down so you can find your best needlepoint kit. (Read to the end for a summary and decision tree).
The Best Needlepoint Kits For Beginners
If this is your:
- first needlepoint project, and/or
- you have eyesight issues, and/or
- you have trouble manipulating small objects e.g. you have some arthritis.
Your best needlepoint kit will be one on a larger mesh (it's easier to see and stitch).
By larger mesh size, we mean anything larger than 18 holes per inch. Look for a needlepoint kit with 10, 12, 13, or 14-count canvas. The "count" refers to the number of holes per inch. The smaller the count number, the larger the mesh holes, and the easier it is to see and stitch!
Click here for needlepoint kits on larger mesh
If you're a beginner, start with something simple while you get the hang of a few needlepoint stitches.
This Stacked Birds needlepoint kit is a good choice. It's colorful, which makes it fun and interesting, and the stitched areas are a good size. This kit comes with wool yarns, which are easy to stitch with, and great for beginners.
Or, consider this bold and colorful Mod Flowers design. It has four fun colors that are all easy to see and stitch.
This Tulip Trio is a mid-century modern design on 13-count canvas. The decorative stitches are optional, and it has silk/wool blend yarns for a wonderful stitching experience.
Designs that have lighter colors are easier to see. So, avoid black, navy, and other dark colors, unless these are only small areas. Stitch dark colors in daylight or with a white cloth on your lap, which makes them easier to see.
This Kelp blue and white design is an excellent choice for a beginner: it is on 13-count canvas and has light colors, except for the dark blue, which you could stitch with a daylight lamp or natural lighting.
Thread types
The type of thread matters when searching for your best needlepoint kit. The easiest threads to use, and the most beautiful, are natural fibers such as wool, silk, and cotton.
Poppy Monk kits contain natural fibers that are used as a single strand—no separating or joining; just thread your needle with a single strand and start stitching.
Some needlepoint kits use wool yarns, which are easy to stitch because wool is very "forgiving"—it holds its loft and shape, and makes a professional-looking tapestry.
Needlepoint kits for beginners and experienced stitchers that contain wool yarns.
Needlepoint kits with silk fibers offer a premium experience. The subtle sheen and strength of silk give your finished project a lovely luster and a professional touch, even if you're a beginner.
Find A Design You Love
You're going to spend several relaxing and enjoyable hours with your needlework project, so find a design you love. Consider all the other factors—skill level, canvas mesh size, thread type—and then pick something that brings you joy.
There are so many needlepoint designs on the market—more than ever before—so there's plenty of choice.
At Poppy Monk, we specialize in small needlepoint kits with premium silk or wool threads, at less-than-premium prices.
We love color and modern design. If that's your jam, take a look at our collection of needlepoint kits and you should find your best needlepoint kit right here.
In Summary:
Use this decision tree to help you find your best needlepoint kit:
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If you have sight or dexterity issues, head to needlepoint kits on larger mesh.
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If you're buying for a child, shop Kids Kits.
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If this is your first project, go with a starter kit: Select a kit on 10-14 mesh for the easiest kits, or if you have eyesight issues. Select any beginner kit if you can work an 18-mesh canvas. The product description will tell you what mesh size it is.
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If you've stitched before, consider something from our Advanced Beginner collection.
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If you're an experienced stitcher and want to experiment with decorative stitches, consider a needlepoint kit with decorative stitches (and stitch guides).
If you're still in doubt, send us an email—we're always glad to help.
Happy stitching!