YOUR QUESTIONS

Needlepoint is a counted stitch technique which involves sewing over a predetermined number of threads in a regular stitch pattern on an even-weave fabric such as canvas.

Embroidery, however, is a different stitched technique which is applied to any fabric without the need to count or consider the weave. Instead stitches sit on the surface.

Obviously it depends on how big your chosen design is, how nimble your fingers are and how often you stop for a cuppa or get distracted by the latest box set!

However, as a general guide, if you stitch at a steady pace, using Tent Stitch, you could reasonably expect to cover an area 5 x 2cm (2x1 inches) in about an hour. However, if you use bigger stitches you'll obviously cover the surface area more quickly. Don't feel under pressure though, it's not a race. Your pace is the best pace.

The short answer is it's not essential, but it's up to you.

Hoops are used to keep fabric taut and securely in place which can help to ensure even stitching. However needlepoint canvas is thick and has been stiffened with potato starch. As such, it holds its shape reasonably well but it makes it too bulky to be loaded into a standard hoop.

Instead, some prefer to use a needlework frame for a flatter, more stable surface to work on. If you find you enjoy needlepoint and plan to keep it up as a hobby then it might be worthwhile investing in one for future projects, but it's not an essential purchase. Please take a look at my blog post 'To Frame or Not to Frame - A Beginner's Guide' for more information.

Your kit should include enough yarn in order for you to complete your kit successfully.

However if, for whatever reason, you run out of a particular colour, please email hello@sewsewmellow.com with your original order number and the colour code of the yarn you are in need of and we would be happy to send you a FREE top up to enable you to complete your project.

Firstly thank you for your order!

My working week is Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) and I aim to dispatch all orders within 2 working days.

I offer various shipping options depending on your location. Please refer to the Shipping Policy page for details of couriers used, costs and expected delivery timeframes.

Yes I do! Please get in touch via hello@sewsewmellow.com or use the online chat and I will send you a price list and more information.

I sell digital gift vouchers worth £25, £50 or £100. You can purchase one here. The gift cards are valid for 2 years from purchase. They are delivered by email and contain instructions to redeem them at checkout.

Yes, if you are buying a Sew Sew Mellow Kit as a gift then you can add gift wrapping to you order at check out for a small additional cost. You will also be given the opportunity to include a brief gift message.

Kits will be wrapped in good quality, sustainable wrapping paper, finished off with a beautiful ribbon.