When you start your needlepoint stitching project there would be so many questions that you might have in mind like what are the different stitches that you would need to use, how you would measure your yarn etc. Since you do not have an expert nearby you would need a handbook or the Needlepoint Stitch Dictionary which would answer all your questions that you have in mind. These handbooks or stitch dictionaries is a storehouse of knowledge and is used by beginners as well as experts in the field of needlepoint embroidery.
How do you read these stitch dictionaries?
When you want answers for your queries you should learn How to Use a Needlepoint Stitch Dictionary? You can learn this very easily.
1. Reading diagrams
If you open your stitch dictionary you would find that they are filled with various diagrams related to needlepoint embroidery. These diagrams would explain you many things which are-
• The various steps involved in making different stitches like tent or basket weave. The diagram shows each step with clarity and helps the person to understand how to make these stitches.
• Then the stitches are shown in which portions of the canvas they can be used in these diagrams.
2. Understanding the different types of stitches used in needlepoint embroidery
When you are learning How to Use a Needlepoint Stitch Dictionary, you would understand a great deal about stitches and their families. In needlepoint embroidery stitches are divided into different families like compound, straight, cross, diagonal and box stitches. There is some common feature among these stitches. For example in the family of diagonal stitches the stitches comprise of diagonal lines. Each chapter in the beginning defines the stitches and mentions clearly the general features of these stitches and lists all the stitches belonging to the family. Here the needlepoint embroider can also understand what specific areas can these stitches be used for, what specific yarn to be used and what pattern can these stitches be used on. It has exhaustive data which is very important for the needlepoint embroider.
3. Helps you to plan your canvas
Planning your canvas before you start stitching in it, is an important part of needlepoint embroidery. Once you have your canvas design in hand, you can plan the different stitches which you can use in different areas. Here you would also understand the color scheme of your canvas and can refer to the stitch dictionaries for your reference. This would help you to clarify your doubts and help you to enjoy your needlepoint embroidery in a better manner.
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4. Develop your own personal style
Once you start doing needlepoint embroidery for some time you would like certain stitches more than the other. Using the stitch dictionary you can study your favorite stitches and develop your won stitching style which is very unique to you.