How can you repair damaged needlepoint?

[Susan BAV]

How's that for a classic question for the Small Talk forum ?

Actually, I'd like to know if some tiny needlepoint damage can be somewhat fixed by ironing interfacing to the back. I was thinking that might seal the loose pieces. Do you think it might work?

I searched the word needlepoint onsite, and only found seven hits, and only two members here, namely Nancy and Bina, admit to doing needlepoint--which is the most complicated form of needlework--so I'm hoping one of you, or someone else here, will have a suggestion.

Many years ago my mother did some beautiful needlepoint for my boys. They were framed, but the glass from one eventually got broken so it was squirreled away in a corner to be repaired later. It never got repaired.

Well, even though I had it wrapped up, some kind of weevil must have gotten into the one with the missing glass and there are a few tiny holes in what must have been some wool yarns used.

My daughters-in-law are taking a sewing class together and I told them they can make over these two old needlepoint pieces into pillows (with a zipper to pull over a pillow form). And I see now that the one has this little bit of damage. It was mostly on the black background so I took a black laundry marker to it and the missing spots are very difficult to see now.

But do you think ironing interfacing on the back will help seal any loose threads on the back? Any suggestions, please? Thanks!

 

[Freddie]

Hey there Susan,
I used to do needlepoint, and although it maybe a poor mans way of fixing things but I always use a glue stick to put things back together before using anything else. By doing this, I have time to place (in this case) exactly where you want the threads by using a tooth pick, then use your interfacing for re-enforcement. Heck, I've used the glue stick on the back of all my needle work

 

[Bina]

My first choice would be to try and re-stitch the area.
Secondly, like Freddie said, glue it where you can to secure it.
You may need to go to a craft store and get fabric glue. Good Luck.

 

[Nancy]

It's probably moth damage. I have a needlepoint piece I did several years ago, and am finding small holes in it now. I know it is moth damage.

First of all you've got to match the threads. Usually on the back of the piece there are loose thread ends, and you can snip off some of that (not too close though). Then if it is only a tiny area, I would weave some stitches in the back of the piece with sewing thread, (don't let it show on the front), crisscrossing them, and then take the yarn you cut and either pull it through those woven threads with a crochet hook, or if the yarn is long enough to use a needle, do that. Try to match the pattern stitches as closely as possible.

At least that's how I would do it.

I would be afraid that in time, any glue used would leach to the front.

You might also be able to do something called needle felting with small puffs of the matching yarn. But that would require a special felting needle, and could damage the backing.

 

[Phyllis]

A exxpert at a needlepoint shop is always a good idea. If the canvas is not damaged, you might try taking out the stitches in that area and re-needlepointing them- assuming you can match the yarn.

 

[aussigal]

I agree with the other girls...taking it to a specialty shop to get an opinion from the ladies in there...probably re-stitching the damaged area is going to give the best repair results...

 

[Susan BAV]

Thanks so much for the suggestions, Ton, Phyllis, Rachel, Nancy, Bina, and Freddie! Your suggestions were all extremely helpful and I will probably look for a needlepoint specialist and go from there. I did a little embroidery and crewel work as a girl but it's been too many years ago and I never did cross-stitching or needlepoint so I'd be afraid to touch this with a needle. But that is a possible option and the canvas does seem intact and strong.

I think I'll print out your suggestions. Many thanks again to each of you .