The Difference Between Cross Stitch, Embroidery and Needlepoint

There are numerous crafts that are done with a needle, cloth and some type of thread.  To the aspiring crafter, it can be very confusing trying to figure out which is which.  Here is a quick primer on three of the most popular terms:  Embroidery, cross stitch and needlepoint.

Embroidery

The term “embroidery” actually encompasses several different fabric crafts.  In fact, both needlepoint and cross stitch are types of embroidery.  Its basic definition is the decorating of fabric and other materials by stitching designs onto it.  This can be done with thread, yarn, or ribbon.