Is there a difference between cross stitch and needlepoint? Of course, there is!
But I get these questions from new sewinginspo students a lot. There are reasons behind it, too. Cause both of the works are stunning, like embroidery. And it’s only natural to mix it up. So, the main difference between cross stitch and needlepoint is,
Needlepoint vs. Cross Stitch
Cross-stitch uses X-shaped stitches on aida fabric, while needlepoint is like a complete canvas work with a mix of different types of stitches.
Is it enough? Do you get it now? I know you don’t! That’s why I prepared this whole thing.
Key takeaways:
- Needlepoint canvas is stiff and open-weave, designed to support heavier threads and full coverage.
- Cross stitch fabric is softer and woven, with a clear grid pattern for X-shaped stitches.
- Needlepoint canvas holds its shape without a hoop, while cross stitch fabric usually needs one for support.
Table of Contents
Is Cross Stitch And Needlepoint The Same Thing?
Nope, cross stitch and needlepoint aren’t the same thing, though they’re both types of embroidery. The biggest difference is how they’re stitched and what fabric they use. Cross stitch comprises tiny X-shaped stitches on a grid-like fabric.
On the other hand,
Needlepoint is usually done on a stiff, open-weave canvas and uses different stitches (like a tent stitch) to cover the surface completely. So yeah both are totally different from each other.
But people tend to mix it up because when the whole project is done. Both look kinda similar and stunning.
If you are curious about cross-stitching patterns then learn how to do a cross stitch through our article.
Difference Between Cross Stitch And Needlepoint With Pictures
I think now you get it. The main difference between them is not in the technique but in everything. Both use different fabrics, needles, thread & stitch types. Here is a glance of their difference,
| Difference Area | Cross Stitch | Needlepoint |
| Stitch Type | X-shaped stitches & other cross stitch methods | Mostly half stitches (tent stitch) or full coverage stitches |
| Fabric Used | Even-weave fabrics like Aida cloth or linen | Stiff, open-weave canvas (mono or interlock canvas) |
| Thread Used | Cotton embroidery floss (stranded) | Wool, pearl cotton, silk, or thicker fibers |
| Coverage | May leave fabric exposed | Usually covers the entire canvas |
| Common Uses | Decorative wall hangings, clothing embellishments, bookmarks | Pillows, upholstery, purses, wall art |
Difference Between Needlepoint And Cross Stitch Canvas
Another big difference between both stitches is where it’s done. You can do crossstitch pretty much everywhere, but needlepoint is peaky. You can’t do it anywhere you like. You need a specific canvas for it.
Here is an idea of the Difference between cross stitch and needlepoint fabric,
Needlepoint Canvas
Needlepoint uses a stiff, open-weave canvas that holds its shape, so you don’t need a hoop. It’s built to handle heavier threads and full coverage stitching. There are a few different types:
- Mono Canvas
- Interlock Canvas
- Penelope Canvas
- Plastic canvas
Since needlepoint stitches cover the entire surface, a sturdy canvas keeps everything looking neat and structured.
Cross Stitch Fabric
On the other hand, the cross stitch is done on softer, even-weave fabric with little holes that guide your stitches. You have plenty of options for this stitch. The most common cross stitch fabric options are:
- Aida Cloth
- Evenweave Fabric
- Linen
- Lugana
Those fabrics are almost for any kind of cross stitch. But you can use any kind of fabric for this stitch.
Are Cross Stitch And Needlepoint Patterns Interchangeable?
Not really! Cross stitch and needlepoint patterns might look similar. But they’re designed for different fabrics and stitching styles.
If you try to use a cross stitch pattern on needlepoint canvas, here is what will happen,
The stitches might not line up right, and the design could look distorted. Likewise, a needlepoint pattern on Aida cloth might not fill the space properly. You can adapt patterns between the 2.
But it usually means adjusting stitch types and thread thickness and sometimes even resizing the whole design to make it work.
How Can You Tell Needlepoint From Cross Stitch?
I admit, at first glance, both look the same. It’s easy to mix them. But wait, let me teach you a trick so that you can tell them apart,
If you look up closely and see,
It uses X-shaped stitches on a grid-like fabric. Then it’s the cross stitch you are looking at.
And if you see the stitched on an open-weave canvas using all kinds of stitches then it’s a needlepoint.
So, Another giveaway?
Cross stitch designs often expose background fabric, while needlepoint covers the canvas completely. Plus, needlepoint tends to use thicker threads or yarns, giving it a denser, more textured feel compared to the finer look of cross stitch.
Is Cross Stitch Or Needlepoint Easier?
Cross stitch is generally more beginner-friendly because it follows a simple grid pattern each X goes into a clear square on Aida cloth. It makes it easy to count and follow a design. And it is also faster than needlepoint.
On the other hand,
Needlepoint gives you more stitch variety and texture but requires working on an open-weave canvas, making placement trickier. It also often involves more thread coverage, which takes time.
So, I think cross stitch is easier than needlepoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Cross Stitch Patterns For Needlepoint?
Not exactly. Cross stitch patterns are designed for an even-weave fabric like Aida, while needlepoint uses a more open canvas. You’d need to adjust the design and stitches to make it work.
Which One Takes Longer To Complete?
Needlepoint often takes longer because it covers more of the canvas with thread and uses different stitch techniques. Cross stitch can be quicker, especially for simple designs.
Do Cross Stitch And Needlepoint Use The Same Type Of Thread?
They can! Both use embroidery floss, but needlepoint often requires thicker fibers like wool or tapestry yarn to cover the canvas fully.
Outro
So yeah, that’s the difference between cross stitch and needlepoint.
Now that you know, use the right one in the right place.
If you have any problems, feel free to reach out to us.
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