Expert: Henry Babcock - 1/22/2009

Question
Hi,
I am doing for the first time a needlepoint of collection d'art 10 count canvas. I am using DMC floss and am not sure how many strands should use for the best coverage. Any suggestions? Thanks

Answer
Morel,

Hmm, I have never done a conversion from wool thread to DMC floss before, but I can advise.  For a large gauge canvas, like 12 or 10, people usually use a thicker tapestry wool or several strands of persian wool.

You'll need to experiment a bit by stitching some small samples, maybe in a corner or edge of the canvas that won't be visible after the piece is finished (or you can just remove the stitches after you're done testing).  When I stitch with DMC floss, a single thread will cover a 14-count canvas fine.  Start your tests with two DMC threads, and go to three if you're not getting good coverage of the canvas.  If you are using more than just a tent stitch, you will need to test each type of stitch individually for their coverage as well.

Hope this helps,

Henry Babcock
AllExperts Needlepoint Expert