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Ready to stitch a stocking? We've got all the tips you need!
Christmas has come and gone... the decorations have been packed up... but believe it or not... it's already time to start thinking about next year. If you are planning on stitching a stocking for your family, right after the holidays is a great time to start planning. For some people this might be a full year project! 

Stockings are a big endeavor and can feel like a daunting undertaking, but there's no reason to be afraid of them! We're back again with all of our favorite stocking tips to help make tackling this heirloom project as easy as possible. 


18 mesh vs. 13 mesh... it makes a difference!

A stocking is a big project! On a canvas that large, you might find that you prefer working on a larger mesh count. If you're unfamiliar with that term, mesh count means the number of canvas threads to the linear inch. Most canvases are painted on either 18 or 13 count canvas. 18 count canvas having more holes to the linear inch will be smaller than 13 mesh which has fewer, larger holes to the liner inch. You may prefer to pick a 13 count stocking to make the project move along faster!


Intimidated by a whole stocking... try a stocking cuff instead!

If you want to stitch stockings for your family, but aren't sure you want to take on full size stockings, try a stocking cuff! For a cuff, you will stitch the upper band of the stocking and our finishers will create the remainder of it out of velvet. It's an elegant solution if you are intimidated by larger canvases! 



Click here to shop our selection of stocking cuffs. 


Stretcher Bars or a Scroll Frame can be a huge help

Full size stockings can feel unwieldy. They're big and can be cumbersome to hold. To reduce the size of the canvas as you work, try mounting the canvas on a scroll frame or stretcher bars. 

Here's a tip. Your stretcher bars don't need to be the size of the entire canvas. Simply measure the width, and approximately 1/3- 1/2 the height. Work half the stocking, and then when you're done stitching that half, shift the bars up or down and start on the unstitched portion. You can use binder clips to roll up the part you're not working on. 



Click to shop scroll frames. 
Click to shop stretcher bars. 


Keep it simple on the shading

With a project this large, you may find it easier to pick a stocking that has less shading and fewer colors. Picking a piece where it's easier to tell where the colors go will help minimize difficulty. That way you can just stitch and not have to think too much as you work! Simpler is sometimes better!


Need a name added?

We've got expert in house painters who can add one for you! Script, block capitals... need them to match other stockings in a family? We can do it for you! Simply give us a call at 816-599-7331 to set up your order and talk to our team. 


Pick something you love

As always, pick a canvas you love! If you don't truly love the design you won't be motivated to pick it up and stitch. 

Click here to shop all stockings. 
January 05, 2022 — KC Needlepoint
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