Creative Finishing Ideas: One Needlepoint Canvas, Multiple Finishing Possibilities

When it comes to needlepoint, creativity doesn’t stop once you put down your needle! At Unwind Studio, we love finding new ways to bring each stitched piece to life, and finish our own needlepoint pieces. Our latest experiment with the Pastel de Nata Coaster Canvas proved just how versatile one design can be!

This sweet little pastry can take on many forms - from a traditional needlepoint coaster to a patch, magnet, bag charm, or even an ornament. With just one canvas, you can explore endless finishing options that suit your style and needs. Here’s how we did it (and how you can too!)

1. The Coaster 

Our original Pastel de Nata Coaster was designed to be just that: a charming accent for your table, a souvenir from Portugal or a gift for any dessert lover. Finished with our acrylic coaster, it highlights the full design (pastry + background) and adds a protective, polished touch.

👉 Follow our Coaster Finishing Tutorial to see how to finish your stitched canvas into a coaster, step-by-step.

2. Magnet

Want something smaller and fun? Stitch just the pastel de nata (without the background) and turn it into a magnet!

Once stitched:

• Finish the edges with a binding stitch for a clean outline.

• Add a magnet to the back and cover it with a of adhesive velvet for a soft, finished look.
  

👉 Check out our Needlepoint Magnet Tutorial to see the full process.

 

3. Patch

If you prefer something wearable, your stitched pastel de nata also makes a perfect patch!

After finishing the stitching (again, without the background):

• Use a binding stitch to neaten the edges.

• Add adhesive velvet or felt on the back for structure.

• Use fabric glue or sew it directly onto your denim jacket, tote bag, or pouch for a unique handmade touch.

👉 Learn more in our Needlepoint Patch Tutorial!

 

4. Bag Charm ✨

Looking for a way to carry your needlepoint with you? Turn it into a bag charm!

By finishing your pastel de nata with cording around the edges and a matching fabric backing, you can easily transform it into a small, decorative charm. Add a ribbon, keychain ring, or small loop at the top so it can hang from your favorite tote, keys, or bag.

👉 Follow our Bag Charm Tutorial to create your own.

 

5. Ornament 🎄

Using the same cording and backing technique, your mini canvas can also become a holiday ornament or a cute decoration for your home all year round.

Add a loop on the cording for hanging, and your pastel de nata turns into a little piece of handmade joy that can live on your tree, wall, or even your desk.

👉 Try our Ornament Finishing Tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

 

Our Favorite Canvases for This

Why We Love This Approach

This experiment reminded us why we adore needlepoint: it’s limitlessly creative!! One small design can become many different things depending on your imagination and finishing choices. Whether you want something decorative, functional, or wearable, the possibilities are endless.

So next time you pick up a canvas, think beyond its original purpose, you might be surprised by how many ways one canvas can come to life.