FAQ
The Needful Needle FAQ
What is The Needful Needle?
The Needful Needle is a contemporary needlework studio built around the idea that an old art form can still have something new to say. We create original cross-stitch designs, kits, patterns, finished pieces and classes that range from playful and unexpected to artistic, challenging and occasionally a little irreverent.
Why needlework?
Because making something with your hands matters. Needlework asks us to slow down, pay attention and turn hundreds or thousands of tiny individual decisions into something whole. It is ancient, tactile, meditative and surprisingly contemporary. The Needful Needle honors that tradition while giving it new subjects, new ideas and a little mischief.
What kinds of classes do you offer? What skill level do I need to take a class?
We have various classes including classes for beginners (i.e., "Cross Stitch 101") and classes for more advanced stitchers. We also have classes beyond stitching such as a wide range of options for finishing your completed projects. All of our classes are designed for learning, interacting with others, and finding the joy in needlework!
Where are classes held?
Classes are offered at various locations throughout the Salt Lake area, with additional workshops, pop-ups and special events planned. Current classes and registration information can be found on our Classes page. Look for online Zoom classes in the near future. We are adding new classes all of the time, so check back. In addition, if you sign up for our email list you will get updates on all things The Needful Needle - including classes.
Can I book a private class or group?
Yes. Private classes can be arranged for friends, families, organizations and other groups. Needlework turns out to be remarkably good company when humans gather around a table.
What comes in a kit?
Our kits contain premium materials to complete your project, including: Aida fabric; all the thread needed plus additional to allow for mistakes; charts (also called patterns); small scissors; needles; a needle minder; and beeswax for taming your threads.
Your kits offer different options (14 count, 18 count and 28 count) what does that mean?
Cross Stitch is done on Aida fabric. That fabric is comprised of squares which are crossed with thread, hence "cross stitch." The different count sizes are the number of squares per inch (i.e., 14 squares per inch, etc...). The fewer stitches per inch the easier it is. Also a design done on 14 count fabric will be larger as a finished piece.
Can I buy just the pattern?
Many designs are available as downloadable PDF patterns for stitchers who already have their own supplies. Availability is listed on each design’s product page.
What if I want different colors of thread for my project?
Many of our designs can work in any color. And it could be that you want specific colors that work with how you want to finish the project. We only provide the colors we have used to create the design. However, if you want to change the colors you can buy your own thread. We recommend DMC threads which you can get online or at many sewing and craft stores.
Are your designs original?
Yes. The designs offered by The Needful Needle are conceived and designed by The Needful Needle. Some collections draw inspiration from art, history, language, music, architecture and popular culture, but each piece begins with an original creative concept rather than a stock pattern or mass-produced design.
Are your designs created with AI?
No. Our needlework designs are created by a human artist. Technology may occasionally help with the mechanics of running a modern small business, but the artwork itself begins where we think art should begin: with an idea, an artist and the mildly unreasonable decision to translate that idea into thousands of tiny stitches.
Are your designs suitable for beginners?
Some are and some definitely are not. Designs are identified by skill level so you can choose a project that fits your experience, patience and current appetite for tiny squares.
What if I’ve never cross-stitched before?
Welcome! You are precisely why we offer beginner projects and classes. Cross stitch is wonderfully learnable, and you do not need to consider yourself crafty or artistic to do it.
What’s the difference between cross stitch, needlepoint and embroidery?
They’re related forms of needlework, but they use different fabrics, stitches and techniques. The Needful Needle focuses primarily on counted cross stitch while celebrating the much larger and very long history of decorative needlework. In the future we will offer kits for needlepoint and embroidery.
Do you accept commissions?
We accept commissions for design work - not finished pieces. In addition to requests you may have for a specific design, we also have options for personalizing some of the options we have. For instance, we offer designs to honor a deceased loved one which we would personalize for you.
Will you be adding new designs?
Constantly. The Needful Needle is built around collections and series, and new designs will continue to be released across different subjects, styles and difficulty levels.
Where else can I find The Needful Needle?
In addition to our website, you can follow The Needful Needle on Instagram and Facebook for new designs, upcoming classes, events, behind-the-scenes work and assorted evidence that needlework escaped the Victorian parlor some time ago.
Do you sell wholesale or work with retailers?
We welcome inquiries from retailers, galleries, gift shops and other organizations interested in carrying The Needful Needle products or collaborating on location-specific designs.
How do I hear about new classes, designs and events?
Join our email list and follow us on social media. Subscribers will be among the first to hear about new classes, pattern releases, kits, pop-ups and special events.
What is your return policy?
If you receive a kit that is damaged we will definitely either replace it or we will refund your money. If it is unopened and you decide you don't want it, you can mail it back to us and we will refund you. We do not provide any refunds for kits that have been opened and started. If you have questions about returns, you can email us at: info@theneedfulneedle.com