Miniature punchneedle embroidery uses a small hollow needle to create a series of tiny loops on the surface of fabric. The loops are placed close to one another, and as their numbers increase, so too does the lush textured surface they create. By changing the colors of the threads used, both simple and elaborate designs can be created.

This form of embroidery most closely resembles traditional hooked rugs, although on a much smaller scale. Some people use this embroidery to make miniature hooked rugs for dollhouses. But many others use miniature punchneedle embroidery to create artwork and jewelry.

Is this a new technique?
Miniature punchneedle embroidery has been around for a very long time. Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use this technique, by using the hollow bones of birds' wings as needles. The technique was used throughout Europe during the Middle Ages, often to elaborately decorate ecclesiastical clothing and panels. In modern times, it has been associated with embroidery work done by Russians, particularly immigrants belonging to a religious sect called "The Old Believers" who settled in the United States in the early 1900's.

What kind of supplies do I need to get started?

Punchneedle supplies aren't elaborate. You can easily get started using many materials that you have at home. Here are the five essential supplies that you'll need:

Punchneedle
At least one miniature punchneedle, sometimes called a Russian punchneedle. These needles come in three sizes):

• 1-strand: uses only one strand of cotton embroidery floss or other similarly fine thread (floss is usually sold as six strands plied together; for the 1-strand needle, you'll use only one of the six strands)
• 3-strand: uses two or three strands of cotton floss
• 6-strand: uses six strands of cotton floss (floss is commonly sold in lengths of six strands together)

Embroidery hoop

Because it is critical that the fabric is held very taut, punchneedle artists use a hoop with a special lip to lock the fabric into place without slipping.

Backing fabric

Nearly any tightly woven fabric can be used for punchneedle work, and even unwoven (knit) fabrics can be used if they are backed with woven interfacing.

Floss or thread

Just about any thread which will smoothly flow through the hollow punchneedle can be used. Most punchneedle work is done using cotton embroidery floss. You can use "regular" flosses (such as DMC and Anchor brands), as well as some of the specialty flosses, such as overdyed flosses which have irregular coloring and produce variagated areas when they are punched. A wide range of other fibers can also be used for punching, including silk, rayon, wool, and metallics. If it flows through the needle, you can probably use it!

Scissors

You'll need a pair of small, sharp embroidery scissors to clip threads close to the surface you'll be working on. The smaller and sharper, the better!

Do I need perfect vision to do this?
Absolutely not! Contrary to what you might think, you do not need to have perfect eyesight to do this small work -- much of it is done by feel, and it does not require the precision of other forms of needlework, such as cross-stitch and needlepoint. Having good lighting is far more important than having perfect vision.

People of all ages and skill levels can readily learn to do miniature punchneedle work.