How I Stitched It: A Cost Effective Approach to the Floral Cuff

One thing that drew me to needlepoint is its versatility. Finishing can range from rugs and home goods to belts and bracelets. I was fortunate to have a needlepoint mentor who encouraged creative finishing, and as such have made a number of needlepoint bracelets. It is my goal to encourage others to make their own needlepoint bracelet, sharing details of how I created a cost effective statement piece that is perfect for spring and summer!! 

Before you start stitching, it is important to determine the specifics of how the cuff will be finished. So far I have made two types of needlepoint bracelets (1) the open cuff (freehand and Hermes canvases pictured below) and (2) the closed cuff (floral canvas pictured below). 

The open cuffs were finished through my local needlepoint shop. The closed cuff was done by Hill Top Leather Shop. If you choose to go down the open cuff route, I have found that the stitched length of about 6.75 inches works the best. Unfortunately this is really a guesstimate as the finishing did not have a formal sizing metric. Conversely, the Hill Top Leather closed cuff has a clear sizing convention for stitchers. 

Each finisher has pros and cons! Hill Top pros include (1) great pricing (I cannot emphasize this enough, the pricing was only $25 + shipping), (2) ability to choose my leather color, and (3) clear sizing. Hilltop Cons include (1) the need to block the canvas yourself or stitch on stretcher bars. Local Shop pros include (1) a more formal finished look and (2) the shop will block it for you. Local Shop cons include (1) the inability to choose leather color, (2) less specific sizing metrics, and (3) more expensive. 

 

Regarding thread selection, I "shopped my closet" or more appropriately stated, I "shopped my stash." Basically, I used leftover thread from old projects to complete this canvas. Using up old threads is the easiest way to save money in needlepoint! At this point my spare thread stash is pretty large, so I was able to choose from my Vineyard Silk for the details and then a DMC cotton for the background. The cotton is sturdy and the silk makes the flowers and bugs really pop! If you have any questions about this canvas or would like more details on my finishing choices, please reach out. Happy stitching!