Seasonally, Etsy releases its list of trends. Other sites, such as Creative Market, do the same. At the same time, not all of the trends are adaptable to needlepoint. You can use these ideas to look for canvases for self-finishing by this December.
One trend, Gingerbread Girl, covers a “wholesome, rustic lifestyle that celebrates simplicity, tradition and, of course, all things baking.” To use this trend, look for canvases with a vintage look or that have baking items. To use the trend, stitch your canvases in warm colors and cozy thread textures, like wool. I have a charming Ewe & Eye canvas, pictured above, that perfectly captures this trend.
Mantlescaping is a second trend Etsy points out. Using needlepoint and other items to decorate your mantle is an easy way to incorporate needlepoint into your decorating. Besides stand-ups you could use framed pictures, items in acrylic frames, and needlepoint boxes. This trend can easily continue throughout the year.
There is also a trend looking toward more masculine colors and textures. Think of colors like “burgundy, olive green and tobacco brown.” Leather items, especially for home decor, are a part of this trend. You can easily take advantage of this look by taking a piece stitched in these colors and finishing it in a leather box or tray in dark colors. Or make a set of Bargello coasters in these colors and finished in Sudberry’s wood coasters.
A trend Etsy calls “Candycore” takes its cue from pastel colors, newly popular in holiday decor. Besides using canvases that are of candy, look to incorporate “iridescent materials, playful patterns, and delicious colors” into your needlepoint.
Items for entertaining are another big trend. Outside of trivets or coasters, needlepoint isn’t big in this area. We are seeing more needlepoint items for entertaining. I’ve seen canvases for napkin ring, place cards, and more. although it might be hard to finish these by Christmas, these will be great projects for gifts in the future.
Etsy’s final trend, Making Memories, emphasizes experiences, including travel. This is a trend that is so easy for us to incorporate — just stitch something to remind folks of the experience. From passport covers and travel rounds to canvases of favorite items or foods, there’s lots to choose from here. For example, use Fire & Iris’ mini camping boot as an ornament for a new hiker.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
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