Let us help you consider which threads are best for your needlepoint project with some tips below...

Cotton Threads

Cotton is one of the most cost-effective threads we offer. It is durable, won’t pill, and has a slight sheen when stitched into the canvas.

There are two main categories of cotton thread:

1. DMC Perle Cotton is a “single strand thread.” This means that you can work with one strand, just as it comes off the skein. There is no need to ply or lay the thread, which makes it a great choice for beginner stitchers. DMC Perle Cotton comes in a variety of weights; however, the most common weights are Perle #3 -- intended for 13-count needlepoint canvas and Perle #5 -- intended for 18-count needlepoint canvas.
2. Cotton Floss is a strandable thread consisting of 6 ply. If you examine one full strand of Cotton Floss, you will see that it is made up of six individual threads that are much thinner in weight. These individual threads are known as “plies.” As a result, Cotton Floss should be stranded before it is used to stitch.

(strand the Floss, each of the individual plies should be separated and laid back together. This is relatively easy to do! Once you have cut a strand, gently pinch just below the end with your thumb and forefinger. With your other hand, tap the end of the floss. You will see how all the individual plies separate apart. Pull each individual ply out one at a time until you have the requisite number of plies for the mesh count you are stitching on. When working on 18-count canvas, we typically recommend stitching with 4 ply. When working on 13-count canvas, we typically recommend 6 ply.)

You can view a full list of the cotton we sell and the mesh counts they are intended for below.   Click on the full list of cotton to visit the product page to learn more.

Wool Threads

Wool is perhaps the most versatile and durable thread we carry. It is strong, forgiving, and easy to use. As you stitch with it, you will see that it has just the right amount of “give” to it. We recommend wool for projects that will receive a lot of use, such as belts, cushions, rugs etc. as it will help to guard against wear and tear. When stitched into the canvas, it will have a matte, traditional finish.

Most wools, including DMC Wool and Elizabeth Bradley Wool, are single strand threads. They are both thicker in weight and can be used on 12-count canvas when stitched in Basketweave.

Planet Earth Wool is also a single strand thread and is designed for use on 13-count canvas.

Bella Lusso is a fine Italian wool that is a delight to stitch with. Because the fiber is thin, we typically only recommend using it on 18-count canvas, as you will need to combine multiple strands together for good coverage. We recommend 2 strands when working on 18-count canvas.

You can view a full list of the wools we sell, and the mesh counts they are intended for below. Click on the full list of wool to visit the product page to learn more.

Silk Threads

Silk has a beautiful lustre. There is an abundance of different silk threads, available in a variety of different thicknesses and rich, vibrant colors. Silk is often favored over other fibres because of its soft sheen when stitched into the canvas. It is soft to the touch and easy to use.

Much like cotton, silk is available in two main categories:

1. Single Strand Twisted Silks are used just as they come off the skein. These varieties include Pepper Pot Silk, Vineyard Silk, Planet Earth Silk and Silk and Ivory (a wool silk blend).
2. Strandable Silks like Splendor will need to be plied. Take a look at the end of one strand of Splendor. You will see it is made up of three bundles of four ply each. Tap the cut end of your strand of Splendor. You will now start to see the thread separate into the three groups. Pinch the top of the thread, holding all three bundles together and pull out one bundle of 4 ply to work with. This will be the correct thickness for 18-count canvas. Use 6 or 8 ply for 13-count canvases.

Next, tap the end of the single bundle again. Separate all four ply from each other and then place them back together. Separating the threads will help them to lie flat and even when you begin stitching.

You can view a full list of the silks we sell, and the mesh counts they are intended for below. Click on the full list of silk to visit the product page to learn more.

Specialty Threads

Perfect for adding dimension to your work, Specialty threads come in a range of textures and finishes - velvet, leather, metallic, fuzzy, sparkly… You name it, there’s a specialty thread for the job!

Some of our favorite specialty threads include:

• Silk Lamé Braid- Available in three different thicknesses, making it a good option for almost any count canvas. This thread has a wonderful light sparkle to it. Use it for snow, sky and glass.
• Fyre Werks- Fyre Werks has beautiful gold, silver, copper etc. tones. If you want a lot of sparkle, this is the thread for you!
• Very Velvet- Available for both 13- and 18-count canvas, as the name suggests, this thread is perfect for Santa’s Suit and animal fur
• Fuzzy Stuff- A great option for scarves, sweaters and other fluffy clothing items, Fuzzy Stuff is one of the few synthetic threads that are fuzzy and available in a range of fun colors.
• Neon Rays- if you want a very shiny effect on your canvas, try Neon Rays. This thread looks great with ice, flowers, ribbons, etc! Be sure to stitch the thread flat to achieve its best look.