Finishing the stitching is a wonderful milestone — but a few simple steps turn your completed canvas into a pillow you'll be proud to display. Here's how to do it neatly at home.
Step 1: Block the canvas
Stitching can pull a canvas slightly out of shape. Blocking gently returns it to a true square. Lightly dampen the back of the finished piece, then pin it face-down to a padded board, easing the edges straight. Let it dry completely — usually overnight — before unpinning. Your canvas will sit beautifully flat.
Step 2: Choose a backing fabric
The backing is what gives your pillow its finished, cushioned reverse. A sturdy fabric such as velvet, cotton or linen works well and complements the weight of the needlepoint front. Choose a colour that picks up a tone from your design for a polished look.
Step 3: Sew the front to the backing
Place the needlepoint and backing right sides together, then stitch around three and a half sides, staying just outside the last row of stitches so no bare canvas shows. Trim the corners, turn it right side out, and press gently.
Step 4: Insert the cushion pad and close
Slip in a cushion pad — one slightly larger than the cover gives a plump, professional finish — then hand-stitch the opening closed with a neat slip stitch.
Prefer a shortcut?
If you'd rather skip the fabric shopping, a ready-made backing takes the guesswork out of finishing. Browse our pillow backings, designed to pair perfectly with our 16″ × 16″ needlepoint kits, and you'll have a finished cushion in no time.
Shop the design featured here: Classic Bouquet needlepoint pillow kit.