Mesh size refers to the number of holes per inch in your needlepoint canvas. A 13 mesh canvas has 13 holes per inch, while an 18 mesh canvas has 18 holes per inch. The higher the number, the smaller and finer the canvas.
We usually recommend beginners start with 13 mesh. The larger holes are easier to see, stitching goes faster, and it is more forgiving while you are learning tension and stitch placement. 18 mesh allows for more detail but requires finer threads and more precision, which often feels more comfortable after some experience.
