Traditional Needlepoint Terms (The Classics Every Stitcher Should Know)
These are the foundation — the ABCs of needlepoint language.
Every craft has a language — and needlepoint is no exception.
Whether you’re brand-new to stitching or simply want to feel fluent in the little phrases that appear in stitch guides, group chats, and Instagram captions, this glossary will help you talk (and stitch) like you’ve been doing this for years.
Because nothing says I belong here like confidently knowing the difference between a tent stitch and a stash expansion moment.
Let’s dive into the vocabulary of needlepoint:
-the traditional terms
-the chic shorthand
-the modern “stitch-girl” slang
Traditional Needlepoint Terms
(the Classics Every Stitcher Should Know)
These are the foundation — the ABCs of needlepoint language.
Canvas
The woven base you stitch on. The number refers to stitches per inch, a lower number always means a larger mesh and a higher number means a finer mesh.
Types you’ll hear:
13-mesh canvas: larger holes, fuller stitches, great for beginners
18-mesh canvas: smaller holes, finer detail
Mesh Count
The number of holes per inch in the canvas. The number refers to stitches per inch, a lower number always means a larger mesh and a higher number means a finer mesh.
13 mesh: more forgiving
18 mesh: precise
Stretcher Bars
Wooden frames used to keep canvas tight + flat while stitching.
Optional but loved by stitchers who prefer tension and structure.
Selvage
The finished edge of the canvas, usually where mesh count and brand info appears (like our taped edges), so your canvas doesn’t unravel.
Blocking
The final step to straighten and flatten a completed canvas before finishing.
Your finisher will do this.
Finishing
Turning your stitched piece into its final form:
pillow
ornament
clutch
tray insert
wall art
coaster
glasses case
Finishing is where your needlepoint can be enjoyed by all.
Tent Stitch
The foundational stitch of needlepoint — diagonal and simple.
Also called:
Continental stitch
Basketweave
Basketweave
A diagonal tent stitch technique that distributes tension evenly and prevents canvas warping. It looks the same as the continental, but creates a basketweave pattern on the back.
The stitch equivalent of “this is how you know she knows.”
Fiber
The thread you stitch with.
Common types:
Silk
Wool
Cotton
Metallic
At Georgie & Lottie, we use Tilli Tomas which are refined, luminous silk & wool blends that feel like jewelry for your canvas.
Stitch-Style Vocabulary
(for the aesthetic-minded stitcher)
Coverage
How fully a fiber fills the canvas hole.
Silk on 18-mesh = seamless, glossy lux
Wool on 13-mesh = plush and cozy
50/50 silk/wool is also an amazing option ad truly our favorite!
Hand
How a fiber feels when stitching. Maybe it’s smooth, fluffy, firm, soft.
Luxury stitchers care about hand.
Ply
Number of strands twisted together in a thread.
More ply = thicker + more coverage
Fewer ply = delicate detail
Modern Stitcher Slang
(because yes — needlepoint has an “internet voice” now)
This is where the hobby gets fun!
Stash
Your collection of canvases + fibers.
A well-curated stash = pure joy.
Stash Expansion
Buying new canvases and threads “for future joy.”
Completely acceptable behavior.
WIP
Work In Progress
A current stitching project. WIP Wednesday is a thing!
UFO
Unfinished Object
A project resting peacefully…for however long it needs.
We honor our UFOs here.
Kitting
When fibers are included with your canvas.
Kitting can also refer to choosing your threads at your LNS (local needlepoint store) for your canvas.
Frog / Frogging
Ripping out stitches that didn’t go as planned.
"Rip it, rip it" = ribbit = frog. 🐸
Cute name, therapeutic moment.
Stitchy Friend
A fellow needlepointer who gets you.
Sometimes known as your future travel-buddy.
Stitch & Sip
Self-explanatory.
Wine + canvas + friends = peak joy.
Travel Stitching
A project small enough for flights, car rides, pool bags, and vacations.
We fully approve.
Heirloom Piece
A project you’re creating to keep forever (and likely pass down).
Silk finishes. Elegant motifs.
Stitched slowly. Loved deeply.
Pretty much can describe any and all needlepoint projects!
Quiet Luxury Stitching
Beautiful fibers.
No rushing.
Nancy Meyers kitchen energy.
Stitchy Self-Care
When needlepoint becomes meditation.
Fiber = therapy thread.
Yes, we coined that for a reason.
Why Learning the Language Matters
Knowing the lingo helps you:
understand tutorials
shop confidently
choose the right fibers
talk to finishers + stitch shops
feel at home in the stitching community
And most importantly:
It helps you enjoy the craft more deeply.
Needlepoint isn’t just technique — it’s culture, storytelling, and slow-luxury expression.
Ready to Build Your Stitch Vocabulary and Your Stash?
The Georgie & Lottie collection is here:
Hand-painted heirloom canvases
FUN accessories
Classic taste. Clever stitches.