How to Finish a Needlepoint Ornament Kit
By Poppy Monk Needlepoint Kits: Canvas Kits & Projects for Adults | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the simple steps to finish a needlepoint ornament kit, from blocking and trimming to backing and adding a hanger. Perfect for holiday needlepoint projects.
Quick Answer
To finish a needlepoint ornament kit, block the stitched canvas, trim it to shape, attach a backing fabric, and add a hanger. This works for round ornaments like the Santa In The Snow and Golf Tee kits.
Why Blocking Matters for Ornaments
Blocking is essential for any needlepoint ornament because it evens out the canvas and makes the design lie flat. Ornaments are often viewed up close on a tree, so a smooth finish really shows off your stitching.
For round ornaments, the 4-inch diameter design on 18-mesh mono canvas is forgiving, but skipping the blocking step can leave the canvas warped and the ornament looking less polished.
Choosing a Backing for Your Ornament
The backing fabric you choose affects both the look and durability of your ornament. Felt is easy to work with and gives a soft, traditional finish, while cotton or linen offers a more refined look.
If you plan to store the ornament for years, pick a fabric that won't fray easily. The backing also hides the back of your stitching and provides a clean surface for a hanger.
Steps to Finish Your Ornament
- Block the Stitched Canvas: After stitching, gently wet the canvas and pin it to a blocking board to the correct shape and size. Let it dry completely. Common mistake: pulling too hard while pinning, which can distort the design. Check that the canvas is perfectly round before moving on.
- Trim the Canvas: Once dry, cut around the design, leaving a border of about 1/2 inch (or a few rows of unstitched canvas) for seam allowance. Use sharp scissors and cut carefully to avoid snipping threads. Leave enough canvas to fold under, but not so much that it creates bulk.
- Attach the Backing Fabric: Cut a piece of backing fabric (felt or cotton) slightly larger than the ornament. Place the stitched piece on top, fold the canvas edges under, and whipstitch the two pieces together along the edge. Keep stitches even and small. Make sure the backing is taut but not puckering the canvas.
- Add a Hanger: Attach a ribbon or cord loop at the top of the ornament. Sew it securely through both the backing and the canvas edge. Common mistake: using a thin thread that can break under the ornament's weight. Test the hanger by gently tugging before hanging.
Product Facts
- Santa In The Snow Needlepoint Ornament Kit: The Santa In The Snow Needlepoint Ornament Kit includes a 4" diameter design on 18-mesh mono canvas and a luxury thread palette with single-ply Pepperpot Silks and metallic threads. The metallic threads add sparkle, so when finishing, be careful not to cover them with bulky backing or hangers.
Santa In The Snow Needlepoint Ornament Kit - Golf Tee Needlepoint Ornament Kit: The Golf Tee Needlepoint Ornament Kit features a 4" diameter design on 18-mesh mono canvas and a generous quantity of single-ply Pepperpot Silk. The smooth silk threads make the finished ornament ideal for a clean, professional-looking finish.
Golf Tee Needlepoint Ornament Kit
