What Is Needlepoint?
By: Carolyn McNeil
1/1/2008
One of the most confusing aspects of needlepoint is defining the different terms used in needlework. The term "needlework" is the broadest term used to describe any form of creative endeavor that is worked using a needle. Among the many varieties of needlework exists the term "needlepoint", but we will get to that in a moment… Embroidery, quilting, rug making, knitting and crocheting are also covered under the
Stitch-opedia
An Encyclopedia of Stitches...
Welcome to Stitchopedia
Stitchopedia is an informational site,
dedicated to the art of needlepoint.
Our goal is to teach everyone - from
the beginner to the old pro. Here, you will find diagrams and directions for any stitch you can think of (and some you've probably never heard of). If you know of any stitches that I have missed (yes, there are probably quite a few), drop me an email and I will add it to the site. Just use the navigation above and click on the type of stitch you are interested in learning about - or - select a specific stitch from the navigation on the right and left sides of the page. Note: You will not see any "flash" on this site. Although that may sound a little boring, I am determined to keep this as simple a website as possible. Basically, you will see easy navigation (with a google search box for your added convenience), easy-to-follow diagrams and instructions, plus suggested needlepoint kits and tools that I recommend.
Page Set-up:
On the left side of each page you will see
our basic navigation followed by an
alphabetical list of stitches that are
demonstrated in this website. This list of stitches continues on the right side of each page. Click on a specific stitch and you will be directed to the page demonstrating that stitch. You may also use the google search box to search for a specific stitch. Simply type in the stitch you are looking for, check the www.stitchopedia.com box ( if this box is not checked the search will be web-wide) and click on search. At this time, you will be directed to a list of search results.
Included on each page are advertisements. We have selected ads that compliment this site. For example, each stitch page will showcase a few needlepoint kits that may be of interest. We have also included ads for sewing machines, craft projects and other related items. If you scroll down further
you will see advertisements for
Amazon.com, Ebay, Blockbuster and
anything we feel would be of interest
(basically, that means anything that I
find interesting...) Why include
advertisements? The advertising is where we make $$$ to pay for this website...
Our promise to you: We will never use ads that direct you to offensive sites, gambling sites or sites that could potentially harm your computer.
At the top and bottom of each page you will see navigation that is divided into the five basic needlepoint stitch types plus the basics. If you choose to use this navigation each button will take you to a page with a list of stitches in that particular stitch group. For example, Crossed Stitches will list all stitches in the cross stitch group - this is any stitch that crosses itself at some point.
Each page contains a series of diagrams - illustrating the stitch - plus step-by-step instructions for working the stitch. Underneath each diagram and instructional text you will find this:
By clicking on this icon, you will open a new window with a "printable version" of the stitch. Simply print this page and refer to it when necessary. This is for those of us who do not work our needlepoint projects while sitting at the computer....
Some pages may load slower than others due to the size of the diagrams. Be patient. It will be worth the wait...
HAPPY STITCHIN'...
Alex-Paras NeedleArts offers needlepoint supplies, patterns and information to the needlework community
NEEDLEPOINT THREADS
KREINIK METALLIC THREADS
BLANK NEEDLEPOINT CANVAS
HAND-PAINTED NEEDLEPOINT CANVAS
Printable
Version
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***Stitch Index*** (Alphabetical)
A - I
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***Stitch Index*** (Alphabetical)
I - Z