AboutVinette de Phillipe Expertise I am able to answer most questions concerning the art of needlepoint. Marking your own canvas, types of stitches and more.
Experience I have been needlepointing for over 35 years. Have taught classes to both adult and youngsters.
Expert: Vinette de Phillipe Date: 6/7/2008 Subject: Appropriate Stitch for Background
Question I was taught many years ago to use the basketweave stitch for completing backgrounds on pre-worked canvas pieces; that person is now deceased but I remember her telling me that the basketweave stitch gave the piece "character & contrast". All of those pieces I had made into pillows. Of late, my sister has told me I should use the continental stitch (which I have tried & do not enjoy doing)to complete background on a piece I plan to have framed. Is there any right or wrong stitch to use for a piece to be framed? Thanks in advance for your advice.
Answer Hi Bobbie,
You would need to use a stitch that does not distort the canvas. Some stitches cause the canvas to become out of shape, because they slant.
Since you enjoy the basketweave stitch,I would continue to use it. To my knowledge, there is no right or wrong stitch. You are the artist for the canvas and what looks good to you and you like is the right one to use.
Here is a site with a library of stitches that may give you some inspiration if looking for a different background stitch.
