What Kind of Yarn to Use on Plastic Canvas
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The yarn chosen for plastic canvas is linked in part to the mesh of the canvas, which resembles a grid. Seven-count or seven-mesh plastic canvas is commonly available. The count refers to how many squares or holes the canvas has per inch for stitching.
Types
Four-ply worsted weight yarn is a good option for seven-count canvas. The ply refers to the number of yarn strands twisted together to form a single strand of yarn, which enhances its strength. Worsted yarn fibres are typically combed before they're spun to straighten the fibres.
Considerations
Five-count plastic canvas has fewer stitches per inch and larger stitching holes. Therefore, two strands of four-ply worsted weight yarn should be threaded through the needle and used together for stitching. Another option is to use a thicker yarn to allow for stitching with just one strand of yarn at a time. Suitable thicker yarns will have the word "bulky" or "chunky" on their labels.
- Five-count plastic canvas has fewer stitches per inch and larger stitching holes.
- Another option is to use a thicker yarn to allow for stitching with just one strand of yarn at a time.
Expert Insight
Finer, more detailed stitching can be done on fourteen-count and ten-count plastic canvases because there are more stitches per inch. These canvases can accommodate yarns with less thickness. Look for a yarn labelled "sport-weight" for stitching on ten-mesh canvas. Pearl cotton is often used for embroidery and is suitable for stitching on fourteen-mesh plastic canvas.
- Finer, more detailed stitching can be done on fourteen-count and ten-count plastic canvases because there are more stitches per inch.
- Pearl cotton is often used for embroidery and is suitable for stitching on fourteen-mesh plastic canvas.
References
Writer Bio
Frances Burks has more than 15 years experience in writing positions, including work as a news analyst for executive briefings and as an Associated Press journalist. Burks has banking and business development experience, and she has written numerous articles on consumer issues and home improvement. Burks holds a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Michigan.