I love the feeling of sitting down to start a brand new needlepoint project. With your canvas in hand, a curated selection of threads (and maybe a glass of wine and your favorite playlist), it’s time to start stitching! This post walks you through how to do just that by providing tips on how to begin a thread. Starting off the right way keeps your stitches neat, your canvas tidy, and your project frustration-free.
Preparing the Thread
Once you’ve picked your current thread and cut it to size (we think the perfect length is from the tip of your fingers to your elbow), it’s time to thread your needle—and yes, there’s a trick to doing it without the struggle. Start by flattening the end of your thread between your fingers or with a quick lick (don’t worry, we all do it). Then gently push the flattened end through the eye of your needle. If you’re working with a slippery or delicate thread, a needle threader can make things so much easier and save you a lot of frustration. With your needled threaded, you're ready to start stitching!
Where to Start Stitching
When deciding where to start on your canvas, it's helpful to begin in an area where you'll be working with a single color for a decent amount of time. This approach provides a solid foundation of coverage, which not only ensures your stitches stay consistent but also gives you a place to anchor future stitches. By focusing on one section first, you create a smooth, uninterrupted area that will make it easier to build out your design and maintain even tension throughout. Plus, working in larger blocks of color early on allows you to get comfortable with your technique before moving on to more intricate or multi-colored areas of your project.
Now for the fun part—actually starting your thread on the canvas! One of the most popular beginner techniques is the waste knot, a great way to anchor your thread to begin a new thread.
Waste Knot Step-By-Step
- Tie a small knot at the end of your thread.
- Bring your needle down through the front of the canvas about 1-2 inches ahead of where you’ll begin stitching.
- Start stitching toward the knot, making sure your stitches cover the tail on the back of the canvas. (The tail is the short length of thread left hanging at the beginning of your stitching, which you'll secure by stitching over it).
- After a few stitches, check that the tail feels secure.
- Snip off the knot from the front of the canvas with scissors and keep stitching as usual.
Best Practices
When starting your thread, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your project stays flawless. First, avoid pulling the thread too tightly when securing the start—tightening it too much can cause your stitches to pucker or your canvas to distort. Similarly, make sure you’re properly securing the thread to prevent loose stitches later on. A weak start will lead to gaps or unraveling, which can be frustrating mid-project. Using a stitching technique that doesn’t match the thread type or canvas weave can result in uneven tension and a less polished finish. Lastly, it’s important to always anchor your thread horizontally or vertically. If you anchor diagonally, you might see what we call a 'shadow line' on the front of your canvas. Anchoring properly helps prevent it from showing through on the front. Take your time and adjust your technique to the materials you’re working with for the best results!
Starting your thread may seem like a small detail, but it sets the tone for your entire needlepoint project. With the right approach, you’ll ensure your stitches stay neat, your tension remains even, and your project progresses smoothly. Whether you’re using a simple waste knot or a more intricate method, the key is to be patient and remember that everything in needlepoint is fixable! So grab your needle, a new thread, and next WIP, and enjoy the creative process. Happy stitching!
XO,
Morgan
