How to Stitch the Jane Goodall Bobble on 18 Mesh

By August Design Works | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn step-by-step how to stitch the Jane Goodall Bobble needlepoint canvas on 18 mesh. Get tips on thread choices, tension, and finishing for this detailed wildlife design.

Quick Answer

To stitch the Jane Goodall Bobble on 18 mesh, use a single strand of tapestry wool or silk, maintain even tension, and work the face and chimpanzee details first for best expression.

Why 18 Mesh Works for This Design

The Jane Goodall Bobble canvas is hand-painted on 18 mesh, which gives you enough squares per inch to capture fine details like Jane's expression and the chimpanzee's fur texture. The tighter grid also makes the finished piece feel more like a miniature portrait than a standard needlepoint project.

Thread Choices for Fine Detail

Because 18 mesh is smaller than 13 mesh, you want a thread that covers the canvas without bulk. A single strand of tapestry wool or a fine silk will let the painted lines show through while still giving full coverage. Avoid doubling strands—the canvas holes are small and thick thread can distort the pattern.

Step-by-Step Stitching Guide

Prepare Your Materials: Gather a size 22 or 24 tapestry needle, a single strand of tapestry wool or silk in the colors shown on the canvas, and a stretcher frame or scroll bars to keep the 18 mesh taut. Mount the canvas so the painted side faces up and the threads run straight. Common mistake: using a needle that is too large can widen the holes. Stick to size 22 or 24.
Start with the Face and Hands: Begin stitching Jane's face and hands using a tent stitch (basketweave or continental). These areas define the portrait's expression, so work them first while your tension is most consistent. Use short lengths of thread—about 18 inches—to avoid fraying on the fine mesh. Checkpoint: after the first few stitches, hold the canvas up to light to see if your tension is pulling the canvas out of shape. Adjust if needed.
Stitch the Chimpanzee Details: Move to the chimpanzee's fur and face. Use a single strand in dark browns and blacks, following the painted guides. For fur texture, alternate between tent stitch and a short diagonal stitch to create a soft, layered look. Common mistake: stitching fur too uniformly makes it look flat. Vary stitch direction slightly for realism.
Fill the Background and Clothing: Once the focal areas are complete, stitch the background and Jane's clothing. Use a consistent tent stitch for a smooth finish. If the background is a solid color, consider a subtle stitch pattern like a diagonal mosaic to add interest without distracting from the portrait. Checkpoint: before starting the background, check that your focal stitches are secure and the canvas is still square.
Block and Finish: After all stitching is done, gently block the canvas by dampening it and pinning it to a flat board to square the edges. Let it dry completely before framing or finishing as a pillow or ornament. 18 mesh holds its shape well after blocking. Common mistake: skipping blocking can leave the canvas warped. Always block even if it looks flat.

Product Spotlight

Jane Goodall Bobble - Needlepoint Canvas (Wholesale): The Jane Goodall Bobble is hand-painted on 18 mesh canvas and celebrates the naturalist's work with chimpanzees. The fine mesh allows you to stitch realistic fur and facial details, making the portrait come alive as you work.
Jane Goodall Bobble - Needlepoint Canvas (Wholesale)