Embroidery on Wooden Canvas

Wooden ‘canvas’ is a relatively new base for alternative embroidery. When I was starting out, it was a rarity made by crafters who perforated thin plywood with miniature drill bits; one acquaintance even adapted an old dental drill for the job.

It is now a real trend, and many embroidery-kit makers offer sets with a wooden blank, chart, and floss. Blanks are also sold separately in many shapes: Christmas trees, balls, fairy-tale characters, butterflies, and more.

There are even beautiful blanks for ribbon-winding bobbins:

These small projects are a handy way to use leftover floss and finish a piece in an evening or two.

The base is sturdy, so no hoop is needed and it does not require a frame. Unless a magnetic backing is used, felt is usually added to cover the reverse.

Wood can be stitched with seed beads as well as floss, with lovely results.

Some kits combine materials: floss and seed beads, or floss and sew-on crystals.

What can wooden canvas become? Handmade souvenirs for loved ones: mounted on a sheet magnet, displayed on a stand, or turned into hanging ornaments. New Year motifs are especially atmospheric.

Fans of this wooden format can stitch whole tabletop displays:

Another creative option is a wooden medallion featuring a famous painting.

Safety Notes

Check wooden blanks for splinters and sand or cover rough edges before stitching. If you drill, cut, or alter a blank, secure it first and use appropriate tools and eye protection. Needles, scissors, and small beads or crystals need careful handling; supervise children throughout.