Other embroidery fabrics

Embroidery bases other than traditional canvas: what this category covers

The canvas – traditionally made of cotton or wool – remains a must-have, but it isn’t suitable for every project. This category brings together embroidery bases that go beyond the usual scope: strips of linen with overlocked edges, cream-coloured cotton muslin, prepared fabric panels, or even rigid plastic canvases for three-dimensional work. There are three items in this range at present, each meeting very specific needs that standard kits do not cover.

Plastic canvas, muslin, embroidery tape: what are the practical differences?

Plastic canvas (Aida plastic canvas, typically 7 holes per inch) allows you to create three-dimensional objects: boxes, frames, and Christmas decorations. It does not curl, does not warp when damp, and can be cut with scissors without fraying. It is the preferred material for functional items that need to retain their shape.

Aida embroidery strips are ribbons 5 cm to 10 cm wide, with a thread count of 14 or 18, finished with neat selvedges. They can be attached to towels, tablecloths, clothing or bags without having to transfer the design onto a finished piece of fabric. The result is crisp, and it takes just ten minutes to apply. They became popular in France in the 1980s with the boom in cross-stitch kits, but they remain essential today for personalising household linen.

Natural cotton muslin (usually 18 to 22 threads per 10 cm) is closer in texture to linen than to Aida cloth. The weft is less visible, giving a more subtle finish. It is used for free-style embroidery, smocking or fine tapestry work. If you’re new to this type of fabric, make sure you have the right tools by visiting the Embroidery Accessories section.

Choosing your fabric based on your project: three criteria that make all the difference

• Thread count: the higher the number of threads per 10 cm, the finer the details will be, but the longer the work will take. An 18-thread fabric takes around twice as long as an 11-thread fabric for the same area.
• Stiffness: a flexible backing for pieces to be framed or sewn onto, and a rigid backing (plastic or canvas-backed cardboard) for three-dimensional objects that need to stand on their own without a frame.
• Edge finishing: pre-finished strips eliminate the need for overlocking and save time; unfinished panels offer greater freedom when cutting but require you to master edge stabilisation.

Bases suitable for children and educational projects

Some backing materials in this category are ideal for young beginners. The large-mesh plastic canvas (7 holes per inch) can be worked on with a blunt needle and thick thread from the age of 6–7. For a comprehensive introduction, combine this type of backing with the dedicated kits available in the Children’s kits.

Embroidery strips on 11-count Aida fabric are also a good place to start: the pattern is clear and progress is visible quickly. An 8-year-old can complete a 15 cm bookmark in two or three 30-minute sessions.

Combining fabric and pattern: the key to a successful project

The fabric alone is not enough. You need a design suited to the chosen fabric, thread of the right thickness, and sometimes a hoop to maintain tension. A 22-count linen panel worked without a hoop will eventually warp at the corners. For complex projects, consult the charts available in Embroidery & Diagrams before choosing your fabric.

Embroidery cushions are an attractive alternative when you want an immediate end result: the fabric, shape and filling are all provided. Here, the ‘other fabrics’ are intended more for bespoke projects – those for which no ready-made kit exactly matches what you have in mind.

What to check before ordering

Three points to check on the product page before making a purchase: the thread count (often expressed as ‘threads per 10 cm’ or ‘count’), the composition (cotton, linen, polyester or plastic), and the exact dimensions. A 50 cm strip may seem long on paper but is barely enough to edge a standard pillowcase (65 x 65 cm). For plastic fabrics, also check whether the product is supplied as a single sheet or in a pack, as prices per square metre can vary by up to double depending on the packaging.

If your project requires additional supplies (needles, hoops, canvas thread), you’ll find the essentials in the Canvas Accessories.

Frequently asked questions about non-traditional embroidery fabrics

Can a piece of work done on plastic canvas be washed?

Yes, by hand in cold water using a mild soap. Plastic canvas is not affected by moisture, but the cotton or wool threads may shrink if the water is too hot. Must be rinsed flat and left to air dry.

What is the difference between Aida tape and Aida fabric on a roll?

The tape is pre-finished on both long edges with a woven or overlocked selvedge, ready to be sewn or glued on directly. The fabric on a roll must be cut to size and its edges stabilised before use. The strip generally costs 20 to 40 per cent more per metre but saves 30 minutes of preparation time per project.

How do you adapt a pattern designed for 14-count fabric to 18-count fabric?

The pattern will simply be smaller in the same proportions: a 100-stitch square on 14-count fabric measures approximately 7.1 cm; on 18-count fabric, this reduces to 5.5 cm. No adjustment to the grid is necessary; you’ll just need a finer thread (a single strand of embroidery floss instead of two).

Are the canvases sold here compatible with the threads in the shop?

Yes. The products in this category are selected to be compatible with 6-ply mouliné threads and standard tapestry wools. The product description always specifies the recommended thread type and the number of strands required based on the fabric count.