Stitching a Pet Rule: No Dogs On The Sofa Canvas

Quick Answer

To stitch the No Dogs On The Sofa needlepoint canvas, start by gathering your stretcher bars and needle, then follow the color-printed design using basic tent stitches. This advanced beginner project works best with a 4x6 inch 18-count canvas.

Step-by-Step Stitching Guide

1. Gather Your Materials: You'll need the No Dogs On The Sofa canvas, the included Size 22 needle, a pair of 7-inch stretcher bars, and a pair of 9-inch stretcher bars. Choose your yarn: a single strand of tapestry wool works well for 18-count canvas. Common mistake: using the wrong size stretcher bars can distort the canvas. Stick to 7" and 9" pairs.
2. Mount the Canvas on Stretcher Bars: Assemble the 7-inch and 9-inch bars into a frame. Center the canvas over the frame and staple or tack the edges, pulling gently to keep the design taut but not stretched out of shape. Checkpoint: the printed design should lie flat without wrinkles. Re-tension if needed before stitching.
3. Start Stitching with Tent Stitch: Thread your needle with a single strand of yarn. Begin at the top-left of the design and work each tent stitch from lower left to upper right. Follow the color blocks printed on the canvas. Common mistake: pulling stitches too tight will pucker the canvas. Keep tension even and relaxed.
4. Finish and Display Your Sign: Once all areas are covered, trim excess canvas, leaving a 1-inch border. Fold the edges to the back and secure with fabric glue or stitching. Frame it or mount it as a mini wall hanging. Checkpoint: the sign does not apply to cats, so don't be surprised if your feline friend ignores it entirely.

Product Details

• No Dogs On The Sofa Needlepoint CANVAS ONLY: Canvas is edge-taped 4" x 6" design color-printed on 18-count canvas, includes one stainless steel Size 22 needle. The pre-printed design eliminates chart-reading guesswork, and the included needle saves you from buying one separately.