Different Types of Needlepoint Canvas

When it comes to doing needlepoint, one of your most important tools is your canvas. If you choose the wrong type of canvas for your project or your thread you can wind up with areas of the canvas showing through, damaged threads and a piece that just doesn't look professional. The right needlepoint canvas, on the other hand, can help you to turn out work that is beautiful, highly detailed, professional and well made.

Let's take a look at the different types of needlepoint canvas so you can choose the right canvas for your next project.

There are 4 basic types of needlepoint canvas that you can choose from; mono canvas, interlock canvas, double canvas (also known as penelope canvas) and plastic canvas. Here's a brief outline of each:

Mono Canvas

Mono canvas has single threads woven into a grid pattern. The size of the grid varies depending upon the gauge of the canvas. To calculate the gauge, measure how many holes are in an inch. For example, if there were 5 holes per inch then the gauge of the canvas would be 5.

Interlock Canvas

Interlock canvas is woven with a single thread running horizontally and two threads that have been twisted together running vertically. This creates a sturdier, more stable canvas than plain mono canvas.

Penelope or Double Canvas

Penelope canvas, also known as double canvas, is made from double threads running both horizontally and vertically. Because of the double threads in both directions it is a very sturdy and stable canvas to work with. Not only that, but it also is the most versatile as far as stitch sizing. You can stitch in the holes for larger stitches or between the double threads for smaller stitches, allowing you to combine both large and small stitches easily into a single piece.

Plastic Canvas

Plastic canvas is not actually canvas, but instead is a piece of plastic with evenly spaced holes punched in it. Instead of coming in a sheet the plastic is usally sold in pre-cut pieces designed for specific projects. Plastic is best for beginners who are just learning needlepoint since it is easy to work with and allows you to practice a variety of different stitches.