Needlecraft (needlework) is the focus of this part of our web guide.
Also known as needlework, needlecraft is a broad category of crafts that involve stitching materials together using a needle. It includes techniques such as embroidery, knitting, crocheting, quilting, and sewing.
Embroidery involves decorating fabric with a needle, using thread or yarn. Embroidery can be done by hand or machine, and includes various styles like cross-stitch, crewel, and blackwork.
Knitting uses two or more needles to loop yarn into a series of interconnected loops, creating a fabric. Knitting can produce items like sweaters, scarves, and blankets.
Similar to knitting, crocheting uses a single hook to interlock loops of yarn. It is often used to make lace, garments, and home decor items.
Quilting involves sewing together layers of fabric, often with padding in between, to create a thicker, padded material. Quilts are commonly used as bed coverings but can also be decorative.
The most fundamental of the needlecraft skills, sewing involves stitching fabric pieces together to create clothing, accessories, and home furnishings. It can be done by hand or with a sewing machine.
In the Victorian era (1837-1901), needlecraft was not only a practical skill but also a highly regarded art form. Women of all social classes engaged in needlework, although the complexity and materials used often varied according to one's social status. For upper-class women, needlecraft symbolized femininity and domesticity, often showcased in samplers, elaborate embroidered pieces, and intricate lacework. These works were displayed in homes as a testament to a woman's skill and patience.
In contrast, working-class women often used needlecraft for economic support, producing items for sale or working in textile factories. The Industrial Revolution brought about significant changes in needlecraft, with the invention of the sewing machine in the mid-19th century revolutionizing the way textiles were produced and making needlework more accessible to the masses.
In the modern era, needlecraft is most often practiced as a hobby, offering several benefits. Engaging in needlecraft can be meditative, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. The craft allows individuals to express their creativity through the choice of colors, patterns, and designs. It provides an outlet for artistic expression. Like many other crafts, learning and practicing needlecraft can improve fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive functions like concentration and problem-solving. Many people find a sense of community through needlecraft, whether through joining local clubs, participating in online forums, or attending workshops. These outlets also allow for sharing tips and patterns, provide a sense of belonging, and foster mutual support.
Needlecraft encourages the creation of handmade items, which can be more sustainable than mass-produced goods. It promotes the reuse of materials and the creation of durable, long-lasting products.
Appropriate resources for this category include those related to needlecraft in general, or to the various disciplines that encompass it.
Categories
Knitting & Crochet |
Recommended Resources
The ANG was founded in 1972 to teach, promote, and preserve the art of needlepoint. To that end, it offers resources for stitchers of all skill levels, including exclusive designs, educational programs, certifications, and a publication called "Needle Pointers." Members are able to connect through local chapters or an online chapter called "Cyberpointers." Membership data, bylaws, certification program, the executive council, and the board of directors are highlighted.
https://www.needlepoint.org/
Edmonton Needlecraft Guild, The
Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, the Guild is a community of stitchers and fiber artists who meet monthly to exchange ideas and develop their skills across various forms of needlecraft. ENG is a member of the Embroiderers' Association of Canada, and Edmonton's Focus on Fibre Art Association. The Guild offers workshops, programs, and events for members and non-members alike, catering to various skill levels. Its programs, workshops, and events are highlighted, and membership data is provided.
https://www.edmontonneedlecraftguild.org/
Embroiderers' Guild of America
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, the EGA seeks to foster the art of needlework and associated arts. The Guild has chapters throughout the United States, which are organized into regions, and events are organized at all levels of the organization. Membership is open to anyone interested in embroidery, from beginners to professionals. Membership information, a calendar of events, a region and chapter directory, a store, and various educational resources are featured.
https://egausa.org/
National Academy of Needlearts
The NAN is an organization dedicated to promoting and educating in the realm of needle arts; in particular, to advance embroidery as an art form. Its mission includes staging conventions and exhibitions, as well as championing the art of needlework. Established in 1985, the organization offers four programs: teacher's certification (original design, non-original design, and master level), judges' certification (judge, master judge, exhibit administrator associate), teacher cum laude, and honors.
https://needleart.org/
Created and maintained by a mother and daughter team, Annette Rosanelli and Chris Rickert, who also have a YouTube channel by the same name. Its website provides a link to the YouTube channel, and the hosts are introduced, along with a wide range of tutorials, free patterns, and project ideas for various crafts like sewing, knitting, crocheting, quilting, and similar crafts. Categories include crochet, knitting, a kid's corner, machine embroidery, needle arts, quilting, and sewing.
https://www.needlepointers.com/
Founded in 1972, the Guild is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in needlework through education and community. With approximately two hundred members, the Guild offers workshops, monthly meetings, an annual retreat, and access to a library of more than four hundred needlework-focused books. Its members range from beginners to advanced stitchers. Member information, an event calendar, and information about workshops and special events is provided.
https://needleworkguildmn.org/
Established in 1872, the RSN is an internationally known center for the art of hand embroidery, offering a wide range of courses for embroiderers of all skill levels. The RSN is based at the Hampton Court Palace in southwest London, although it also teaches at venues across the United Kingdom, North America, Japan, and online. The Royal School offers programs like the Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery, BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery, and the Future Tutors Programme.
https://royal-needlework.org.uk/
