13 Mesh vs. 18 Mesh Needlepoint Canvas: Which One Should You Choose?

13 Mesh vs. 18 Mesh Needlepoint Canvas: Which One Should You Choose?

When you hear “mesh size” it can sound technical, but once you figure it out, it is easy to remember. 

Mesh size simply means how many holes there are per inch of canvas. A 13 mesh canvas has 13 holes per inch. An 18 mesh canvas has 18 holes per inch. The higher the number, the smaller the holes.

What Is 13 Mesh Canvas?

13 mesh canvas has larger holes, which means it stitches faster and uses thicker thread. It is a great choice for beginners, larger designs, bold graphics, pillows, belts, and anything where you do not need tiny detail.

Pros of 13 Mesh

13 mesh is easier to see, easier to stitch, and faster to finish. If you are new to needlepoint, that matters! There is nothing wrong with choosing the canvas that does not make you question your eyesight.

It also works beautifully for designs with larger shapes, simple lettering, strong color blocks, and traditional motifs.

Cons of 13 Mesh

Because the holes are larger, 13 mesh can't hold as much detail. Designs with small lettering, fine outlines, faces, tiny logos, and intricate shading are typically found on a higher-mesh canvas. That does not mean 13 mesh is less sophisticated. It just means it has a bolder look. 

Best Threads and Needles for 13 Mesh

For 13 mesh, you generally want a thicker thread that gives good coverage.

Good thread options include:

  • DMC pearl cotton size 3
  • DMC tapestry wool
  • DMC matte cotton
  • Silk & Ivory or similar wool/silk blends

Needle options: I didn’t know until recently that the size of my needle even mattered. Once I figured that out, it explained why my needle kept feeling ‘stuck’ and harder to pull through. 

  • Tapestry needle size 20 or 22

A tapestry needle has a blunt tip, which helps it pass through the canvas holes without splitting the thread or poking your fingers.

What Is 18 Mesh Canvas?

18 mesh canvas has smaller holes, which means it can show more detail. It is often used for ornaments, detailed artwork, small canvases, fine lettering, and designs where precision matters.

Pros of 18 Mesh

18 mesh allows for cleaner curves, sharper details, and more refined designs. If your canvas includes small words, tiny icons, or detailed artwork, 18 mesh may be the better choice.

It also creates a slightly more polished finished look because the stitches are smaller.

Cons of 18 Mesh

It takes longer. There are more stitches per inch, and the holes are smaller. That is the tradeoff.

It can also be harder for beginners if the canvas is dark, the lighting is poor, or the stitcher is trying to watch TV while counting holes. Ask me how I know!

Best Threads and Needles for 18 Mesh

For 18 mesh, use a thinner thread that does not overcrowd the canvas.

Good thread options include:

  • DMC stranded cotton, usually with fewer strands
  • Silk threads
  • Finer wool or wool blends
  • Pepper Pot Silk (my personal favorite) or similar single-strand silk options

Needle options:

  • Tapestry needle size 22 or 24

Which Mesh Should You Choose?

Unless you are designing your own canvas, then the designer has made this choice for you. If you’re in your LNS and can’t decide between two canvases, choose 13 mesh if you’re a beginner and need a quick weekend project.

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