Why Needlepoint Is Having a Moment (And How Aussies Can Get In On It)
If you’ve spent more than five minutes on TikTok lately, you’ll know two things:
1. Everyone’s romanticising slow, analogue hobbies.
2. Needlepoint is officially cool again.
That’s right. The once-niche, grandma-adjacent craft has had a resurgence (particularly in the US) and this time, it’s got a fresh face, a cult following, and a place in your wind-down routine. Whether it’s custom cushions on your feed, ironic Taylor Swift tour merch stitched by hand, or kitschy wall hangings that double as therapy—you’re not imagining it. Needlepoint is having a serious moment. As much as Diet Coke is. Tis canvas has combined both.
But here in Australia? We’re just getting started.
So, what’s the deal with needlepoint?
Needlepoint is a form of canvas embroidery using wool or thread to stitch a pattern onto a printed or hand-painted canvas. Think of it like colouring in—but with thread. It’s meditative, satisfying, and once you start, very hard to stop.
Across the US and UK, it’s already surged back into the spotlight—Gen Z crafters, interior designers, and even fashion houses are all on board. In Australia? It’s still flying under the radar, but that’s exactly where we come in.
Why it’s taking off (again)
Needlepoint stores were once common in major Aussie cities, but over time, they’ve been pushed out by big craft chainstores — where the “embroidery” aisle is mostly cross stitch (which, fun fact, is actually trickier than needlepoint!).
Needlepoint’s comeback isn’t random. Here’s why it’s trending:
• It’s screen-free joy: In a world of endless scrolling, needlepoint gives your brain a break and your hands something mindful to do.
• It’s a creative outlet for the creatively-challenged: You don’t need to be an artist. You just follow the pattern.
• It’s nostalgic, but new: It’s a blend of retro charm and modern design.
• It’s slow fashion meets home decor: Stitch your own cushion, ornament, or wall art and know exactly who made it (hint: you).
And let’s not ignore the bragging rights. Saying “Oh this? I made it” never gets old.
Why Aussies are so ready for it
Australia is no stranger to crafting—we love a DIY, a bake-off, a Bunnings project. But needlepoint? It hasn’t had its breakout moment here… yet.
Here’s why we think that’s about to change:
• We’re craving slowness.
• We’re loving personalised interiors. Gone are the beige days where every home interior is a cookie cutter copy of something someone has seen on social media. People are wanting their homes to reflect their individuality now.
• Australians are keen to create but there isn’t access to a variety of stitching options.
The US has done modern needlepoint so well but we couldn’t find the kinds of kits we wanted here—fun, stylish, beginner-friendly, not stuck in the past. So we made them. Enter: Matilda Stitch Co.
How to get in on the trend (without leaving the country)
You don’t need to hunt down overseas shops or pay for international shipping. Our kits are designed right here in Australia and come with everything you need to get stitching: canvas, thread, needle, and a guide that holds your hand every step of the way.
Whether you’re a total beginner or looking for your next slow obsession, we’ve got a design with your name on it.
Ready to join the stitching era?
Explore our designs here, or follow us on Instagram at Needlepoint Down Under for stitching inspo and finishing tips.
Matilda Stitch Co.