Alternate "Fabrics"

Vinyl-Weave

Vinyl-Weave, also known as vinyl aida (due to the similar look and weave), is a durable, flexible material made of vinyl strands woven together. It is sturdy, won’t unravel, and works well for place mats, bookmarks, bags, and other useable items.

Available in 13, 14, and 18-ct., it is most easily found in white, though it is also made in a few other colors. When stitching with Vinyl-Weave, keep in mind that it can’t be ironed, so be careful not to fold or bend it. Try using three or more strands of floss for extra coverage (experiment before you begin), and be careful not to drag threads on the back, as they will be easily seen. When trimming upon completion, leave at least one unstitched row around all sides to prevent the stitches from slipping out of place (overcast the edges if necessary).

Plastic Canvas and Perforated Plastic

These materials are similar to each other and to Vinyl-Weave. They are flexible yet rigid, will not unravel, and can be used to create needlepoint designs, boxes, jewelry, and other three-dimensional projects. Plastic canvas has square holes and is easily found in translucent white and a few other colors. It is available in 7, 10, and 14-mesh and can also be purchased in a variety of shapes. Perforated plastic has round holes and is available in 14-mesh translucent white and limited colors.

These products cannot be ironed, so do not fold or bend the plastic while stitching. Also, choose designs without fractional stitches, as you cannot stitch between the holes as with aida or evenweave fabrics. Be careful not to drag threads, or back the design with felt or another material to help hide them. Because these products do not stretch like fabric threads do, use a smaller needle, as this will allow you to easily pass through the same hole more than once. Use additional strands of floss as necessary for full coverage, trim to within at least one unstitched row, and overcast the edges for a finished look.