Needlepoint textiles

Needlepoint is a type of embroidery that involves a single thread and needle making stitches through an open- weave canvas. The degree of detail achieved is dependent upon the fineness of the thread and the thread count of the underlying fabric.

Needlepoint textiles date back thousands of years to the ancient Egyptians. Examples of needlework were found among the possessions in Tutankhamun's tomb. In Medieval and Renaissance Europe, nuns and workshop artisans used needlepoint to create intricately designed chasubles and textiles used during religious services. During the 19th century, renewed interest in stitching techniques led to the opening of the Royal School of Needlework, which became an important center for the training of students and the production and sale of embroidery.

The stitches used most commonly in needlepoint today are the tent stitch, the Victorian cross stitch, and the random long stitch. Wool, silk, cotton, metallic cord, ribbon, and a wide variety of other threads are used to create needlepoint textiles.

Quick Facts

• In January 2012, Sotheby’s New York sold a needlework sampler made by Mary Antrim for $1,070,500
• By the mid-18th century, many European shops sold needlepoint kits, which included a designed canvas with all of the necessary materials required to complete the piece
• Famous historical figures who made needlepoint textiles include Mary, Queen of Scots, Marie Antoinette, Queen Elizabeth, and Martha Washington