15-ply stitches create a
layered look that mimics
traditional needlepoint style.
NEEDLEPOINT Knowledge
Traditional needlepoint designs are created using
multiple layers of embroidery floss or tapestry yarn.
When mimicking this technique for a home embroidery
machine, multiple factors need to be considered to create
a similar look. The amount of thread is the first concern
for digitizers, since traditional needlepoint thread
consists of many more strands within the embroidery
floss being used. This high thread count creates the thick,
square-shaped pixels of colors, stitched diagonally from
the bottom left to the top right.
These Christmas Needlepoint designs have been specially
digitized with a high thread ply to copy this layered
thread look. To do this, one of our lead digitizers, Hannah,
studied her mother’s needlepoint practice to replicate the
Materials list
Materials
• Tear-Away stabilizer (to fit hoop)
• Base fabric (to fit embroidery
machine hoop)
• 8” wooden hoop (for display)
In Your Sewing Room
• Embroidery machine, power cord,
and foot pedal
• Embroidery hoop
• Projects CD & USB stick
Notions
• Appliqué Scissors
• Nested Circles Ruler
• Hot Glue Gun
• Embroidery Thread
REMEMBER. It is a good idea to
back your fabric with a Fusible
Interfacing, which will help the
design’s stability and prevent any
tendencies to pucker or pull in
from the high stitch count.
multi-pass look without actually hand stitching. The end
results are stunning, 15-ply thread counts. This means
each needlepoint design is made up of pixels that are
created by the home embroidery machine passing thread
through the same pathway exactly 15 times each.
Deck The Halls
Stitch out these classic holiday motifs to include in your
seasonal decor. The designs in Needlepoint Christmas
look best when embroidered onto a simple linen or
canvas and displayed in a wooden embroidery hoop.
You can also embroider these onto a sturdy kitchen linen
for display or incorporate them into holiday stockings.
However you choose to use them, these Needlepoint
Christmas designs are sure to be a show stopper!
N E E D L E P O I N T C H R I STMAS | 2 6 | BABY LO C K CU R R I CULUM