Learn to Needlework

Needlework is an artform stretching back centuries across the globe. Often devalued as women’s work, needlework is an intricate, delicate, and functional art. If you’re interested in learning for yourself, here are my favorite resources.

  • Beginners Start Here

    Mary Corbet’s needlenthread has been an invaluable source of embroidery techniques and tips. I recommend poking around her website if you’re interested in the medium and becoming a Patron of her Patreon, if that’s accessible for you. She’s a gift to the needlework community and I’m grateful for her wealth of knowledge.

  • Needlework tools can be as cheap or as expensive as you need to fit your budget. The required tools are: thread, fabric, hoop, embroidery needles, and scissors with optional: pattern, stabilizer, transfer pen.

    I primarily use DMC six-strand embroidery thread, which can be found at any of the craft stores on this page, your local craft store, DMC’s website, or American big box craft stores.

    For fabric, a cotton or linen is typically the best for beginners. I enjoy cutting up old bedsheets for fabric or getting plain white tees to showcase my stitches.


    You don’t need a pattern for embroidery— as opposed to, say, cross-stitch— but it can make stitching less overwhelming. DMC has free embroidery patterns for all levels which I highly recommend. You can also draw your own pattern or make it up as you go along.

  • Craft Stores I've Shopped and Loved

    1. Brooklyn Craft Company - Greenpoint, NYC

    2. Knitty City - UWS, NYC

    3. Purl Soho - Soho, NYC

    4. Fabric Outlet - Mission, SF

    5. Dalbe -5eme, Paris

    6. Stitched Modern - online retailer

  • Library Art Books Rule

    Support your local libraries! The library is a great resource for inspiration, technical resources and, increasingly, for online resources.