Needlepoint Novice

by Grace
(Brooklyn, New York)

I've been doing crewel work for years. Now I want to try needlepoint... Basic questions: Do I use a hoop to hold the canvas as I work? I will start with a small work to familiarize myself with the medium, but my question is do I use a hoop to hold my work as I do in crewel. Someone I know uses the method of rolling the whole canvas into a long roll and just working on one section at a time without a hoop or any support. Is that the best way to go? It looks like It would become uncomfortable after a while. Suggestions please. The rest I'll figure out as I go along. Thanks.
The Stitching Fool

Amy's Answer
That's terrific, Grace! I actually learned them in the other order, starting with needlepoint and then moving on to crewel. They're very different, but I think needlepoint is easier to manipulate. You do NOT need a hoop for the canvas and the needle and yarn are larger, so it's easy to handle.

You mention your friend rolls up the canvas. How big is the piece she's working on? I've seen really big needlepoints go into scroll-type frames like those used for rug hooking or quilting. For something of a normal or smaller size, you don't need a hoop. Do be sure to tape the canvas edges with masking tape so they won't fray and your yarn won't get caught. I hope that helps!

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