Kanavë

Kanavë refers to a type of textile, specifically a stiff, open-weave fabric often made from cotton or linen. Its characteristic feature is its evenly spaced holes, which are created by weaving warp threads and weft threads with a defined count per inch. This consistent grid structure makes kanavë ideal for needlepoint and cross-stitch embroidery. The most common types are Aida cloth and evenweave linen. Aida cloth has a more rigid structure with visible squares, making it beginner-friendly. Evenweave fabrics, such as linen and various cotton blends, have a finer count and a more flexible drape, appealing to more experienced stitchers who prefer a more subtle background for their work. The number of threads per inch, known as the count, determines the size of the stitches and the finished piece. Higher counts mean smaller stitches and a more detailed final design. Kanavë is the foundation upon which counted thread embroidery projects are created, providing a precise guide for each stitch.