Updated July 12, 2019
We sometimes face this question “How do I repair a hole in my unstitched needlepoint canvas?”
There are two ways to fix the problem, depending on how large the hole is.
If the hole is only one thread which has been cut, you ought to be able just to stitch over it. But this ONLY works if it’s one thread. Although I have done Tent Stitch in this case, it really works best if the stitch is longer AND is not beginning or ending at least one thread away from the cut thread. If that’s the case, just stitch as you normally would.
If it’s more than one hole find a piece of canvas the same mesh size, slightly bigger than the hole, about three to four threads bigger all around. You could even take it from the unstitched margins of the canvas if you had to.
If you are unsure how to find the mesh size, there are two methods. One is to use a tool called, I think, Mesh Minder. It has 1-inch grids of common mesh sizes. Put that over the canvas and find the one which matches. The other way is to use a ruler. Measure 1 inch along a single thread and count the number of intersections.
Place the cut piece of canvas onto the back of the canvas behind the hole. Line up the threads so the holes are even and baste or hold in place. Stitch through both layers of the canvas immediately. It will look exactly like the uncut areas.
Any additional bulk at the margins of the hole from stitching through two layers of canvas is on the back, where it won’t be seen. The hole has a single layer of canvas in the same mesh size and will look like the rest of the canvas.
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
maxine says
Great information!! Thank you so much! As long as I have my reading glasses on I can follow you “how to” step by step. Thanks for your help!!
Jane Burton says
I made a hole accidentally smack in the middle of my canvas. I repaired it just like you said, but I put the patch on the front. Of course it looked lumpy – it has been sitting in a drawer since. I think I will pull it out and “repair the repair”! Thanks for the tips.
Janet M Perry says
You’re right, you do get a lump because of the double thickness of canvas, but if it’s on the back no one will see it.
Keep stitching,
Janet