7/30/2019 Making Needlepoint Last
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Cross-Stitch & Needlew
There is a reason that seat covers, rugs,
belts, dog collars, shoes, and purses are
typically done in needlepoint rather than
other forms of needlework. When stitchedwith the right types of
threads and
stitches, a piece of needlepoint can last for
generations. Making a rug, covering a
chair, or making a belt with needlepoint
allows you to stitch something that will last
through years of use and wear.
Or at least you hope so. Using the wrong
kinds of threads or stitches can turn your
lovely stitching into a mess of pulled
threads and worn patches very quickly.
Threads that Wear
The absolute best thread to use is wool.
Wool is unparalleled for wearing well,
holding color, and standing up to rough
use. Wool is the best choice for rugs,
furniture, dog collars, and shoes.
If youre looking for an alternative to wool,
consider perle cotton. Unlike floss, the
twist in perle cotton makes it strong and
better able to stand up to hard wear. Perle
is amazing for belts, totes, and purses.Belts work especially
well in perle because
of their sheen and vibrant colors, but the
sheen does come off with use, so it should
not be used for areas like belt bindings or
similar areas that will be exposed to
excessive use.
Some blends and specialty threads also
stand up to hard wear. Burmilana, a thin
wool blend, wears well. So do linen
threads. Silk also wears well, but it is not
colorfast (dont get it wet) and may not be
lightfast. Braided metallics, such as those
made by Kreinik , are also strong enough
for occasional stitches.
Stitches that Wear
For stitches that wear the best, nothing
beats basketweave (see diagram below). In
fact with the wide variety of colors
available in perle cotton and wool, you
dont usually need a fancier stitch to add
dimension and interest to your
needlepoint designs.
Beyond basketweave, look for stitches
that do not go over more than two or three
threads of canvas. Stitches should lie flat
because any stitches that stand up above
the canvas will wear out first. Short
diagonal or straight stitches are best.Simple cross-stitches on
needlepoint
canvas are another good choice. By passing
over each intersection twice, a tough,
dense, flat surface is formed.
Bargello is a traditional choice for chair
seats (see diagram below). Although its
stitches are a bit longer, chair seats dont
have lots of movement, so this stitch works
well for that type of application.
When choosing a stitch for a hard-wearing
place, always consider the backside of thestitch. Because all
objects wear differently,
the back may get more friction than the
front. The backs of stitches should be thick
and cover the canvas evenly.
BY JANET PERRY
Making Needlepoint Last
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Basketweave Stitch
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Bargello Stitch
When stitched with the right
types of threads and stitches,
a needlepoint piece can
last for generations.
