Suppose you want to make a Bargello needlepoint project but have no idea how much it will cost. What’s the first thing you should do?
The answer is to sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to purchase all the materials you will need to completely stitch it.
For if you start working haphazardly on the Bargello needlepoint project without counting the cost, you may run out of money and not be able to finish it; thus leading to frustration and disappointment.
To help you count the cost, here is an example of some typical expenses for materials and supplies to make a simple Bargello needlepoint pillow.
Estimates are calculated based on a medium-sized pillow (15″ square) stitched on 14-mesh mono needlepoint canvas.
Count the Costs:
| Item | Quantity | Cost |
| Even weave (mono) needlepoint canvas (14-mesh) | 18″ square piece | $10.00 |
| Tapestry or Persian yarn (assorted colors) | 5 oz | 13.75 |
| Tapestry Needles (18/20) | 1 pck | 1.30 |
| Masking Tape | 1 roll | 2.50 |
| Brass Tacks | 1 pck | 3.00 |
| Stretcher Bars (18″) | 2 sets | 5.50 |
| Bargello Chart/Pattern | 1 | 5.00 |
| TOTAL | $41.05 |
As you can see, the two most expensive items you will need are needlepoint canvas and thread. You can lower these costs by taking advantage of sales at your local needlepoint store or shopping online. Reducing the size of the project will also save money; and if your budget is tight, consider using cotton floss.
Most stitchers have a needlepoint stash that has been collected over the years. To save money, check your stash first for interesting finds.
Consider purchasing a needlepoint book with several charted Bargello designs that can be used over and over for multiple projects. The one time cost can be as much as $40.00; but the return on your investment is excellent–especially if you plan to continue stitching Bargello needlepoint.
[...] The blog follows up with a post on estimating the cost of a bargello project. See the cost post. [...]