If you’ve ever wandered into the world of embroidery, you’ve probably come across both cross-stitch and needlepoint. At first glance, they might seem pretty similar - both involve stitching on fabric to create beautiful designs. But once you dive in, you’ll quickly realize that they each have their own unique styles, techniques, and materials.
Whether you’re trying to decide which one to start or you’re just curious about the differences, this guide will break down what makes cross-stitch and needlepoint unique, how they compare, and which one might be right for you!
What is Cross Stitch?
Cross-stitch is a form of counted-thread embroidery where you create designs using tiny X-shaped stitches. It’s typically done on even-weave fabric, such as Aida cloth or linen, which has an easy-to-follow grid structure.
What Do You Need to Cross-Stitch?
• Fabric: Aida cloth is the most popular for beginners (comes in different hole sizes). The most popular sizes are 14, 16 and 18.
• Floss: Stranded cotton embroidery floss, usually divided into strands.
• Needle: A tapestry needle with a blunt tip.
• Hoop or Snap Frame: Helps keep your fabric taut while stitching.
• Pattern: You follow a color-coded grid to complete your design.
What is Needlepoint?
Needlepoint is another type of embroidery, but instead of X-shaped stitches, it uses various straight or diagonal stitches to create texture and patterns. Needlepoint is stitched on a stiff, open-weave "mesh" canvas, rather than fabric.
What Do You Need for Needlepoint?
• Canvas: Comes with the design painted (or sometimes printed) on and in different mesh sizes (larger holes = easier to stitch). The most popular sizes are 13 and 18 mesh.
• Threads: Wool, silk, or pearl cotton.
• Needle: A tapestry needle with a blunt tip.
• Frame, Scroll or Stretcher Bars: Helps keep the canvas firm while stitching and can help prevent warping.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you love following patterns, enjoy detailed work, and want an easy-to-learn hobby, cross stitch is a great choice! It’s beginner-friendly, relaxing, and perfect for making decorative wall art and gifts.
If you prefer more texture, want to create functional items like pillows, and enjoy a more tactile experience, needlepoint is for you. It takes a bit more patience but results in durable, beautiful projects.
In my personal experience, I’ve slowly gravitated more toward needlepoint because I love the creativity it offers. The decorative stitch possibilities are endless, and I enjoy the structure and durability of the canvas. That being said, cross stitch is often more affordable and accessible, which makes it such a great entry point into stitching.
If you’re interested in stitching needlepoint without the cost of a painted canvas, our charts can be used to paint your own and stitch beautifully for less! And since my charts are formatted on a grid based system, they work great for both needlepoint (13 or 18 mesh) and counted cross stitch (Aida 14 and Aida 18) as well.
Whether you're drawn to needlepoint or begin with cross stitch, both crafts offer such a fun and creative outlet. At the end of the day, choose what excites you most and enjoy the journey!
Happy stitching,
Mackensie Smith
