Needlework

Crochet is a popular needlework technique which is worked using a crochet hook; some people also refer to this tool as a "crochet needle." Whatever you call it, it's a low-tech instrument for producing exquisite, versatile projects you can use in a wide variety of different ways.

Favorite crochet projects include granny squares, afghans, shawls, baby blankets, baby booties, hats, scarves, socks, and crocheted flowers. There are many more possibilities.

Pictured here: I'm working on crocheting a cotton dishcloth. The free crochet pattern is available right here on our website, along with a step-by-step tutorial. We make many other free crochet patterns and crochet tutorials available for you.

Free Crochet Resources:

• Is crochet the right craft for you? This brief checklist of considerations can help you decide.
• Learn how to crochet
• Find free instructions for crochet stitches
• Find free crochet patterns in our A - Z alphabetical index
• Understand the differences between knitting and crochet
• Visit the crochet home page to check out the latest additions to our website, plus other crochet news.
• Sign up for our free crochet newsletter.

We have two fantastic sites that cover the topic of sewing. If you're interested in sewing anything and everything, you'll definitely want to visit the sewing site. If you want to sew your own clothes, be sure to check out the DIY fashion site too. Here are some highlights from these amazing sites:

• Learn how to sew
• Learn about hand stitches for sewing
• Easy sewing projects for beginners
• Find free sewing patterns and free sewing patterns for DIY fashion.
• How to mend and alter your clothes
• Sign up for the DIY fashion newsletter and the sewing newsletter

Cross stitch is a fun and relaxing craft that anyone with a bit of patience can succeed at.

Favorite cross stitch projects include samplers, wall art, cards, Christmas stockings and bookmarks. Want to learn more? The following resources will help:

• Learn how to do cross stitch
• Browse through thousands of free cross stitch patterns
• Learn how to work cross stitch on a crocheted background
• Check out the latest cross stitch news
• Sign up for a free cross stitch newsletter

If you're interested in exploring interesting options for color and pattern through needlework, needlepoint is a fabulous option. Well-executed needlepoint projects can lend an air of timeless elegance to a room; they're sure to impress everyone who encounters them.

Popular needlepoint projects include pillows, bags, samplers, wall art, Christmas stockings, bookmarks, seat covers and upholstery; find more needlepoint project ideas here.

Needlepoint Resources:

• Learn how to do needlepoint
• Browse through gorgeous free needlepoint patterns
• Learn about needlepoint catalogs
• Sign up for the free needlepoint newsletter

You can use embroidery to enhance any type of fiber art project: linens, clothing, accessories, quilts, and anything else you can think of. It's fun to incorporate embroidery into other types of needlework projects; for example, you can work French knots onto crocheted granny squares.  If you'd like to learn more about embroidery, check out any of the following pages:

Free Embroidery Patterns:

• Embroidery projects for beginners at the About Embroidery website
• Free embroidery designs at the About DIY fashion website

Learn Embroidery Stitches:

• Surface embroidery stitches
• Blanket stitch
• Lazy daisy
• Embroidery chain stitch
• French knots
• Feather stitch
• Backstitch

Types of Embroidery:

• Assisi embroidery
• Bead embroidery
• Blackwork embroidery
• Candlewicking
• Hardanger embroidery
• Redwork embroidery
• Ribbon embroidery

Anything at all can be made in miniature, including needlework. The following links will help you to explore miniature needlework:

• Free miniature needlework charts
• How to knit in miniature scales
• Free crochet patterns for fashion dolls
• Doll house needlework kits
• Miniature needlework societies
• Learn more at the miniatures site.
• Sign up for the free miniatures newsletter