That is a reference for the number of threads to the inch on a canvas -- it is called the "mesh size."  If you were to lay your canvas on top of a ruler, and count the number of threads on your canvas for one inch, as for example there were 13, then your canvas would be called "13 mesh" or "13 mono." 

Sometimes it's easier to count the holes, than count the threads -- but you come to the same conclusion. 

There’s a rule – the bigger the number, the smaller the holes.  So an 18 mesh would have very small holes,  24 mesh even smaller – very tiny holes.  So 13 mesh, is about the medium sized holes.  10 mesh would be larger holes, good for someone who likes needlepoint but can’t see very well, and great for a child who is learning. 

Mono Canvas is made of a single thread running vertically and horizontally, and they are woven together to form the canvas.  So the 13 describes the size of the mesh, and the Mono describes the type of canvas.

• Choose a subject that you'd like to stitch (i.e. floral, whimsical, sports...);
• Go to that category page, and look for a design that's within your budget;
• Look for a mesh size that's 12, 13 or 14;
• Make sure there isn't too much detailing, or too many thread color changes;
• e-mail me with any questions or your canvas selection to see if it's a good beginner's project, I'm happy to help you.

The majority of the canvases on my website are hand painted and "stitch" painted canvases.  The kits you find in craft stores are machine stamped. 

A machine stamped design allows for the ink colors to blend together making it difficult to know what color thread to stitch where.  A stitch painted canvas is painted so that you know exactly what color thread to use.  The detailing on a hand painted canvas is exquisite.  So when you are done stitching, your final product looks exactly like the painted canvas. 

There are times when a craft store kit is appropriate.  But, if you are stitching a Christmas Stocking that will become an heirloom or a pillow that will accent your decor, then the investment in a hand painted canvas is the right choice.

You can do what I've always done -- if I take the cost of one canvas -- say $150/4 months of stitching pleasure -- I come up with a cost of $37.50/month.  That's really inexpensive entertainment for a month!!

This yarn always works up evenly. Its slightly rough texture not only insures long wear but adds depth to the colors when the work is finished. The color range is adequate for all but the most minutely detailed project. There are three or four shades of each color.

Paternayan yarn has been a standard for needlepointers for over 60 years. The strength of the yarn was once used for the repair of Persian rugs. It is made of 100% virgin wool that comes from New Zealand.

The basketweave stitch (we give you a free direction sheet for this stitch with every kit) derives its name from the pattern the stitches make on the back of the canvas. They look no different on the front, or face, of the canvas. The stitches are place along diagonal rows of intersections of canvas threads. The rows of intersections are straight but a 45 degree angle to the vertical and horizontal threads of the canvas.

It is like you are building a pyramid in which the stitches of one row dovetail neatly between the stitches of the previous row. The pyramid gradually increases until you have reached the full diagonal dimension of the one-inch square, at which point the lengths of the rows will be decreased, instead of increased.