Why I Love Needlepoint

Monday, October 05, 2009

Share with us why you Love Needlepoint!

Please let us know three reasons why you like to needlepoint.

How often do you stitch?

Do you usually stitch alone or with other people?


Post your answers and enter our drawing for a free assortment of 35 great colors of Kreinik silk threads.

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Debbie commented on 05-Oct-2009 01:30 PM:

I love that I can put my needlepoint down and don't have to remember anything when I pick it up again. You don't lose your place with needlepoint. I love that I don't have to figure anything out with needlepoint---no gauge, no pattern, no difficulty I love the meditative quality of stitching. And I LOVE the final product! I try to stitch daily. Usually while watching TV or listening to a book on CD. Once a week I stitch with other women in a stitching group.

Elizabeth commented on 05-Oct-2009 05:47 PM:

I started to needlepoint when my late husband fell ill with cancer. I found that it was my sort of therapy; I could lose myself in the project and not think about anything else. While he had chemotherapy, I stitched. Now, I do it for pure enjoyment. The pleasure one derives from seeing the canvas come alive is indescribable. Usually, I stitch while watching TV and I try to do a little each day. Sadly, I am coming to the end of this canvas and I don't have another waiting in the wings. I would really like to learn how to create my own canvases.

alberta connell commented on 06-Oct-2009 07:56 AM:

I have done needlepoint for a very long time as I am 84 years old....I live alone with a dog and every day I am needlepointing.....puts me on another planet and i am not so loney...Also, everyone loves my work - especialy my family who are all over the United States...Your canvases are beautiful....Bemmie

Elizabeth commented on 06-Oct-2009 12:46 PM:

Very relaxing after a stressful day. Love the creativity and the feeling of accomplishment a piece is complete. I stitch everyday. As a college stundet it's hard to find fellow stitchers. I have taught several of my friends to sitch but they are not avid stitchers. Stitching while pregaming for a fraternity function does not get a whole lot of support. Therefore, I usually stitch alone but while I am on breaks i stitch with my mom.

Brooke commented on 06-Oct-2009 12:48 PM:

I find needlepoint relaxing. I also enjoy it because I can be creative and I like to see the finished results. I am working on a rather large project and try to needlepoint a few days a week, usually on weekends.

Connie commented on 06-Oct-2009 12:51 PM:

i LOVE the texture of working with the different types of threads. I relish the downtime of sitting down and work and enjoy the compliments I received from the person receiving the gift. Since I work fulltime I saved my lunchtime to do needlepoint. I keep one project at work. I also work on a different project at home after dinner. Yes, I do stitch alone. However, at home I have three adorning cats sitting by me, waiting for the threads.

Anonymous commented on 06-Oct-2009 12:57 PM:

I find it relaxing after a day at work. It allows me to be productive with my free time while offering me a creative outlet. I try to stitch every day, usually in the evening. During the work week I stitch in the car while my husband drives us on our commute. I am usually in the presence of my husband when I stitch, but I would generally say I stitch alone, not with other stitchers.

Pam commented on 06-Oct-2009 12:59 PM:

I stitch for stress reduction adn relaxation. I also take pride in completion of my project, then deciding what I want to stitch next. My stitching time varies from several times a week to hours and days on end depending on my schedule. I always stitch alone unless my sister and I are in the same place a couple of times a year.

Anonymous commented on 06-Oct-2009 01:00 PM:

Needlepoint is relaxing to me. I usually try to work a little every day. I work alone as I am not able to get around well.

Chica commented on 06-Oct-2009 01:02 PM:

I enjoy needlepointing for relaxation. I listen to music and enjoy the solitude. The sewing bee approach will not interest me. I needlepoint almost daily. Whenever I have a lull in my daily routine I stop and work on my latest project for awhile.

Anonymous commented on 06-Oct-2009 01:05 PM:

The variety of stitches and what they produce - the same stitch can look very different with different colors. It relaxes me and takes me to another place - works well when you are also watching/listening to a great old movie on Turner Classic. The satisfaction of completing a project and knowing that you have completed something unique to you. I stitch every change I get -- evenings after dinner -- weekends and always take a piece to work on when I go on trips. I usually stitch alone, however I do visit with some ladies that have a needlepoint group in our community. They meet in our lodge when I work so I go by adn say hi and see what they are doing.

. . commented on 06-Oct-2009 01:43 PM:

I love doing needlepoint because it is very relaxing yet challenging at the same time. The creative process of taking a painted canvas and making it come to life is very fulfilling. I also love playing with the various fibers that are now available. It is like going to a candy shop with no calories! I try to stitch something on a daily basis, but then life happens. Most times I stitch while watching TV. However, we have a new shop locally and they have Thursday night stitch-ins that I try to attend. It is fun to have others around to bounce ideas.

Robin Hanerfeld commented on 09-Oct-2009 09:12 AM:

I started needlepointing when I was in my teens thanks to my mom. I do stitch with my girlfriend on the weekends at my house. Needlepointing is my therapy I block everything out and just stitch. When I see a canvas that I like my mind goes crazy with ideas doing different stitches and using different fibers. I've used crystals,beads,small buttons, etc. Watching my canvas come to life is so exciting and well I don't need to say how exciting it is to see the finished product. It's my creation. What a wonderful feeling. I stitch every day for at least 2-6 hrs. Robin

Laura B commented on 12-Oct-2009 11:28 AM:

Please let us know three reasons why you like to needlepoint. 1. I needlepoint because it brings me back to something real. With all the technology and busy life here (Southern Cali) it is refreshing and grounding to do something with your hands that creates tangible results. 2. I stitch because I enjoy creating beautiful things to share with those I love. 3. I stitch as a release for the creativity in my head. I create quick items, such as greeting cards or more detailed stitching on quilts depending on my mood. How often do you stitch? I stitch something every week but how much depends on how hectic life is. Do you usually stitch alone or with other people? I do both. I have a group of girls who are also in their 20s that enjoy stitching and we meet to share this love.

méri commented on 12-Oct-2009 12:07 PM:

I stitch 1 - to have my hands busy; 2 - to test my skills; 3 - to enjoy the results. I stitch almost everyday. It's unusual a day I don't put a needle and thread in my hands. I stitch alone at home but with with people around me luckily! :)

Betsy P commented on 12-Oct-2009 01:57 PM:

There are so many reasons why I stitch but the most important is because I love it. It speaks to me. It's an old friend that has been around since my teen years (I'm in my early 50's). It is such a peaceful, calming hobby in my busy world. And one reason that I think is very important is that I love how it connects me to the past - the recent past including my mother, my grandmother and great grandmother who were all stitchers and the far past - needlepoint and bargello can be found in museums and churches around the world. When I see a wonderful stitched item in a museum that comes from the 16th or 17th century or as recent as 100 years ago - I like to think about the women (often girls as young as 8) who made that item. I hope it wasn't drudgery for them. My favorite time to stitch is in the very early morning. I get up around 5:30 and make coffee and stitch for an hour while my house is quiet. My eyes are not exhausted and especially in the spring and summer the light is just wonderful at that time of day. thank you for asking! Betsy

Becky B commented on 12-Oct-2009 02:01 PM:

I like to needle point because I find it very relaxing. I try to do some stitching daily if I can and it's usually alone.

shaza commented on 12-Oct-2009 02:14 PM:

1. Relax / unwind 2. To satisfy an urge to create / be creative 3. social activity with other stitchers I try to stitch at least one thread length every day. May be at home or with other stitchers

Beverly commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:23 PM:

I truly enjoy stitching and working with needlepoint because it recalls an earlier time, when people stitched in the evening for enjoyment and also stitched to provide household items. I find that it is very relaxing to needlepoint and I enjoy the final product, to hang on my wall or give as a gift. I have injured my arms ten years ago and can no longer stitch the way I would like. I can only manage perhaps once per week for an hour or so or 1/2hour a couple of times per week. I used to stitch for hours, especially in the winter, while listening to a book on tape.

Judy commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:27 PM:

I just love needlepoint! i started stitching seriously after taking a needlework course for my graduate degree. Sounds funny right - but I never worked harder and eventually became a Reading Consultant at an elementary school. I gave some needlework lessons to young girls but I basically needlepoint alone and do it often. I stitch daily and love the feel of the final stage. I even took a trip, a "needlepoint quest" to England. This entailed going to stores and museums just to get a better understanding.

Anonymous commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:31 PM:

I do needlepoint more for relaxation than craft. I love to see the canvas become more than a one dimensional object. I have been doing needlepoint for over 40 years, so sometimes the reasons I began get lost in passage in time. I just enjoy doing it. I cannot really define why. I try to stitch a little bit every day. Now that I am retired I have the time to devote to this lifelong passion. Once a week I sittch in a group. This often is the high point of the week. Other women knit or crochet, do cross stitch or quilting, but all are dedicated to needle arts.

Kim R. commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:35 PM:

Stitching is my therapy - for stress and to busy my hands, also love to learn new stitching techniques and then see my finished item usually with a few creative changes by me is very satisfying. I stitch in the evenings while watching TV with my husband. Thanks for a great drawing!

egater commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:35 PM:

Please let us know three reasons why you like to needlepoint. Its relaxing, creative and fun How often do you stitch? Not so often I would like to Do you usually stitch alone or with other people? Usually with other people

naomi commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:43 PM:

Life without needlepoint would be sad. I love snugging with my dog listening to a book on tape and needlepointing every night.I stitch fo relaxation but also for the pleasure derived from seeing my self expressed through the canvas. I love fibers and colors and i love making things. I stitch every day most days.

JO'B commented on 12-Oct-2009 03:57 PM:

I love the creative process of needlepoint, from the huge varieties of threads to the simple and complex stitches. I find it a challenge to put together the thread and stitches to get a pleasing design. I also love needlepoint for the relaxing and soothing rhythm of stitching. When I am finished with a project and step back to look at it, there is a feeling of accomplishment that I don't get from other hobbies. It is a rare day that I do not stitch, mostly in front of the television in the evening. Although I am not alone when I stitch, my husband is in the room with me. I haven't convinced him of the benefits of stitching.

Kathryn commented on 12-Oct-2009 04:07 PM:

I love needlepoint because of the colors (bright to soft, shiny to dull), the patterns (modern to antique), and the designers (thank you! Melissa Shirley and so many others). I love Rainbow Gallery for their dozens of different thread types. I stitch almost every day. I love to stitch with other people around me, whether they are stitching or not, but mostly stitch by myself in my favorite stitching chair or on airplanes or in hotels or on boats. You can stitch anywhere!

glenda commented on 12-Oct-2009 04:42 PM:

I needlepoint for stress relief, to surround myself with beautiful things, and to keep to my diet (can't use the hands to eat when you are using them to stitch.) I try to stitch daily and it a very rare day that doesn't get some stitching or knitting done. I am usually alone though often hubby and almost always at least one of the five kitties is near. I do stitch anywhere that I know I will be spending more than a couple of minutes waiting. I never leave the house with out a work bag with some knitting, a small stitching project, and a book in it. I join my mom and two of my sisters monthly for a family stitch n bitch session. Often the hosting sister's daughter joins us and my daughter did on occasion until she moved to the other side of the country.

Barbara commented on 12-Oct-2009 05:11 PM:

At 73 I feel like I have been needlepointing all my life, but I started when I was about 19. It was the first of the needlearts that I learned, and have since learned other needlearts, but needlepoint was my first and remains my first love do sit and relax and do. Have done some beautiful ones and some wacky ones, but few ever say in my home, thanks to family and friends who love the look of it when it is done.

Amy commented on 12-Oct-2009 06:02 PM:

I learned needlepoint from my grandma and love to do it; it keeps me connected with her. I like to do it when I have a stretch of time because it feels so calming, like meditating. Often I do it on the subway. It relaxes me, makes the trip speed by and is often an invitation for other people to speak to me about what I am doing and why I am doing it. If I had the time, I'd do it daily, but unfortunately, I don't, so I do it a few times a week. Right now, I am working on my own creations - simple, needlepoint wallets that will be gifts for some people I love.

Amy commented on 12-Oct-2009 06:03 PM:

I learned needlepoint from my grandma and love to do it; it keeps me connected with her. I like to do it when I have a stretch of time because it feels so calming, like meditating. Often I do it on the subway. It relaxes me, makes the trip speed by and is often an invitation for other people to speak to me about what I am doing and why I am doing it. If I had the time, I'd do it daily, but unfortunately, I don't, so I do it a few times a week. Right now, I am working on my own creations - simple, needlepoint wallets that will be gifts for some people I love.

Heidi Sloss commented on 12-Oct-2009 08:30 PM:

I stitch because it takes me away from all that feels pressing and reminds me to breathe and stitch. I have been stitching for 33 years. I stitch at least a little bit almost every night while watching TV or while on the phone.

Micki Kaye commented on 12-Oct-2009 08:58 PM:

I needlepoint because it is the best way I've found to unwind. It keeps my hands busy while I watch television and clear my head. My favorite part of stitching is choosing the colors/threads for a new piece and learning new stitches that bring the canvas to life. Lastly, I love to needlepoint because I feel like it connects me to my grandmother, who has Alzheimer's. Although she cannot stitch anymore, I proudly hang her pieces in my apartment, and she has 2 that she started and I finished hanging in her room. I try to stitch every day, but life, the universe, and everything sometimes get in the way. I'd say on the average week, I stitch about 4 days for varying lengths of time. I usually stitch alone, but I've recently made some new friends who stitch. Occasionally, we'll have stitching dates, that are always a lot of fun. Now, time to get off the computer and back to stitching!

Cheryl A commented on 12-Oct-2009 09:21 PM:

Wow...what don't I love about needlepoint. Luscious threads that create wonderful light play when laid, the rhythm of stitching, which seems to put me in a state of meditation and controlled relaxation, gorgeous colors that outshine the rainbow, and beautiful creations that can be passed down to future generations. I get together with a group of friends to stitch every week, which keeps me motivated. We also do needlepoint getaways where we stitch for several days without housework and other interruptions.I stitch several days a week, and have multiple projects in the process at all times!

Carmen commented on 12-Oct-2009 09:40 PM:

I love to needlepoint because it can be repetitive and relaxing or complex and require concentration. I haven't done much needlepoint lately, but I like to work on it while "watching" tv with my husband.

turtle commented on 12-Oct-2009 11:24 PM:

i love that i have creative freedom to make any design from scratch or change an existing design to personalize it. i love that i can put it down and not lose my place, add a touch of funky to the traditional, and take plain items and make them new! i stitch daily, but unless my mom or mother in law (or those rare instances when daughter wants to craft, she is a teen after all)are around, i for the most part stitch alone, but share the creations with friends and family.

Madonna commented on 12-Oct-2009 11:43 PM:

I enjoy needlepoint because 1) it is the most relaxing thing I do; 2) it provides an outlet for creative expression; and 3) there are no better friends than those kindred spirits with a needle. I stitch nearly everyday, sometimes all day. Usually I stitch alone but thoroughly enjoy when I'm with other stitchers.

Jocelyn commented on 12-Oct-2009 11:44 PM:

Why do I like needlepoint? - Because it's fun! - Because I love the texture of needlepoint - Because it lets me play with such delicious colours and threads How often do I stitch? - every day. About 30 minutes in the morning before work, and every evening while I isten to the television. My husband watches TV, I listen LOL. Do I stitch with other people? - no, there's just me, my husband watching tv and the cat trying to displace my stitching so she can jump onto my lap. Every Wednesday evening though, I stitch at a food court in the local mall while waiting for my friend who I meet for dinner each week. No-one actually stitches with me, but lots of people ask to see what I'm doing.

Fionna commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:27 AM:

I love the idea of creating a fabric, most of my needlepoint is freehand, and the idea of using thread like paint. I enjoy the creative process it affords me and I like figuring out how to overcome it's limitations. I have created a few multi media pieces that incorporate needlepoint into arcrylic paintings. I do it mostly in front of the tv with my husband near by. I have a tendency to go through periods where I do a couple of pieces then put it away for awhile and do something different.

Heidi commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:55 AM:

Stitching is a beautiful way for me to just tune out all the noise and stresses of the day. I love to stitch in the evenings, but I tend to go in bursts by project rather than a regular routine. I may stitch for several hours per day for a week straight, then not pick up a needle for a few days. I always stitch alone (though my crafty friends are only a click away)

Isabel commented on 13-Oct-2009 04:47 AM:

I love painting and a friend told me I should learn needlepoint and I'd enjoy it too .. I'm a begginer but I really enjoy it. I usually meet my friend twice per week for stitching as I feel still not easy with it.

. . commented on 13-Oct-2009 10:25 AM:

Why do I love stitching? Why do I love to breathe? my mom taught me to sew at age 7 and I have done every form since (crochet, quilting, sewing bridal dresses, etc) for the sheer pleasure of seeing something I alone can create, something I have control over and no one else can tell me when to do it or how to do it or where. It is not a job it is a passion. I have a group of friends that all worked at Mary’s stitch shop and when she closed it we stayed together - once a month and two long pajama weekends a year at my house - weekend when Elvis died and weekend of Elvis' birth - we call ourselves the BSS (Blue Suede Stitchers, but can also substitute various variations on that theme like, the obvious, B_ _ _-s_ _ _ Stitchers, or bitch session stitchers or some such) we eat and drink and stitch and never get out of our jammies all 3 days of the weekends - we have coped with cancer, and deaths and marriages and job losses and job gains and thru all the tears and love our stitching was there with us so every single piece I stitch relates to a moment in time in my life, big or small, you can recall what piece you were working on when mom died or when I had to have the surgery or when Laquita's son got married and so on. I love to stitch alone, too. Well, almost alone - there is a little Persian love of my life who must help me in all endeavors so together we stitch - late night, weekends, anytime I can fit it into the schedule. I was prosecutor until recently and when the horrors of crime got ugly, the beauty of my stitches grounded me. So, why do I stitch? I guess you could say it is my escape into the creative fantasy.

Stephanie commented on 13-Oct-2009 10:27 AM:

I love to needlepoint because I enjoy the process of watching the fabric form as I work, the creativity of embellishing the project, and the ability to work with such wonderfully colored yarns and threads. I usually stitch alone; it's one of my "me time" things. I don't stitch nearly as often as I used to, but I'm hoping to remedy that very soon!

Linda commented on 13-Oct-2009 10:27 AM:

I love needlepoint because it allows me, who works in a law firm by day, to express my creative side. I do a lot of whimsical stitching, so I can can get away from the day to day seriousness of my work. I love that it comes alive. And, really, the reason I took up needlework was to teach me patience: when my kids were small, the process helped me remember that they too, were a work in progress. I try to stitch at least a strand a day, although sometimes I can't. I take it on trips in the car so I can be a passenger. I do stitch by myself as there is no one around that I know of to stitch with - sure wish there was!

Terry commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:10 AM:

Not sure there is a clear reason as to why I like to needlepoint. Just now, I am working on samplers, with a few kits thrown in for variety. It's fascinating to see patterns emerge, patterns which I have either adapted, copied or made up. I love working with the colors of the threads, melding them together in combination which I'm not always sure will work. They usually do. I like using different threads and cvanses to see how they interact and learn so much in the process. And its addictive:"just one more line, one more piece of the pattern...". I needlepoint on nearly a daily basis. I am a chauffeur and keep the small projects with me to do during the downtimes. I usually needlepoint alone, though I have begun taking classes when I can.

Carole commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:22 AM:

I stitch because when I was young, I was a quite nervous girl. Our doctor told my mum that, in order to be more quiet, I had to practice something relaxing like stitching. In fact, I was 8 years old and I never gave up (I'm 42 now...). The other reason why I like stitching is that it helps me keeping tracks of nice moments like my kids birth, my wedding, the day my sister entered an art school, etc... Last reason (but I could give you more than 10!) is that I love seeing all those threads in their drawers ;) Those incredible colours make me want to hug them!!! I usually stitch every day. It's not always that easy with 3 kids and a full time job but I manage to keep contact with my loop as much as possible. I always stitch home. Usually, my kids play on the floor while I'm stitching. I really like this cool family portrait. As modern and geeky as we all are in the family, we also have those nice quiet moments, like our grand mothers had: a cup of tea, kids playing around, and me stitching... Thanks so much for your giveway! Carole, Paris - France.

Gayle commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:23 AM:

I have always done cross stitch and just recently taken a needlepoint class for a christmas orn. The stitches are really relaxing after a long day in retail and it is so easy to just pick up and start stitching. I belong to an EGA group we meet once a month. Thank you for your Blog it is so informative.

Moriah commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:26 AM:

I love to needpoint (1) for the thrill of watching something beautiful develop right under my nose, made with my own hands, (2) it's relaxing, and (3) finally finishing a piece gives me a certain sense of accomplishment I don't find in a whole lot of other areas of my life ("happy dance"). Two weeks can pass where I don't pick anything up (either because of no time or because I'm tired and know even a short session will end in a mistake) but that's not too often. Usually I try to stitch 2-3 times per week, an hour here or there Mon-Fri, and then a longer session on Sat or Sun after chores/errands are done. (I'd stitch all day long if I could though.) And finally, I mostly stitch at home in front of the TV with my daughter and/or husband. If I have a good travel-sized piece in my WIPs and have to go somewhere I know I'll be waiting (DMV, oil change) I have no problem taking it with me and stitching in front of people. But while I can walk and chew gum, I'm not very good at stitching and having a conversation ... so I wouldn't bring my work out any time I'd be expected to participate.

Margaret commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:26 AM:

1. I like/love to needlepoint because: -it keeps my hands busy (no idle mind, as mom always said) -it is relaxing -love the finished product -I can be at my daughter's bedside (we have a totally disabled daughter, Megan, who has out-lived all expectations)2. I try to stitch some every day. I work 40 hours a week. Usually stitch in the evenings and on weekends. - F.Y.I. A co-worker who also likes handwork has claimed this time as our "strip and stitch" time! ☺ (We go home, take off/strip off our work clothes> ^esp. bra^< and sit down to stitch) 3. Usually I stitch alone as I mentioned in #1. It is too hard for me to get out. Most of my friends are knitters; not needlepointers.

sally wess commented on 13-Oct-2009 11:58 AM:

i love needlepoint because it relaxes me from all the stress of the day, and i have a beautiful piece of art when i am finished. it's a win, win thingie. i stitch almost every day, and usually by myself.

Sherry R. commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:04 PM:

Stress Reduction -- It's meditation. Tangible, beautiful rsult - an outlet for my creativity. Productive way to pass otherwise wasted time (waiting for an appt, riding a train/plane, kids sports practice.). I stitch 405 times a week for generally less than an hour at a time, but will always squeeze in more if opportunity allows. I am usually the only one stitching but I am normally doing so in the company of other people. Visiting with family, my children doing their homework or artwork, riding a train, etc.

Sol Medvidofsky commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:05 PM:

i needlepoint alone almost everyday. I needlepoint to relax and to keep my hands busy so I don't overeat. I am therefore I needlepoint.

Audrene commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:08 PM:

Needlepoint fulfills an artistic need -- good brain work if you can get it. A nurturing maternal feeling of watching a child (canvas) develop and grow. Like a good book you are never alone with a canvas. The world of needlepoint is like the journey through space and the universe...where no (wo)man has gone before. I stitch as often I can.. most days...if I could I would stitch 24/7 365..but daily life gets i the way. Mostly alone but a fair amount of stitching with others.

M. (Taffy) Hill commented on 13-Oct-2009 12:13 PM:

I like/love to needlepoint because it keeps my hands busy (no idle mind, as mom always said), it is relaxing and I love the finished product. I can be at my daughter's bedside (we have a totally disable daughter, Megan who has outlived all expectations). I try to stitch some everyday. I work 40 hours a wekk. Usually stitch in the evenings and on weekends. F.Y.I. A co-worker who also like handwork has claimed this time as our "strip and stitch" time -- we go home, take off/strip off our work clothes and sit down to stitch). Most of my friends are knitters, not needlepointers.

Maureen commented on 13-Oct-2009 02:34 PM:

I am rather new to needlepoint. Some years ago I made a charted footstool cover and thoroughly enjoyed it. Other needlework took over but this year I have joined Sharon Boggon's Stitch Exploration,http://www.pintangle.com/ which has needlepoint included and I find it relaxing and creative. I enjoy the different look the stitches get with different threads and thickness. I work alone and stitch daily.

Julie commented on 13-Oct-2009 02:48 PM:

I enjoy needlepoint because it relaxes me and I can create something beautiful with my own two hands. I like to make gifts for my friends and family that I have embellished with different threads and stitches. I usually stitch alone in the evening after everyone has gone to bed, but I do enjoy stitching with my Mom when I can. I try to stitch some every day. Thank you for the contest.

TJ commented on 13-Oct-2009 02:55 PM:

I like needlework because I like watching beautiful textures and colors emerge as I work. I like being able to measure progress as I see the design emerge. I like it because it gives my hands something to do (I used to stitch while riding in the car, or watching TV. I no longer commute or have a TV, but it still gives my hands something to do!) I stitch a couple of times a week, usually alone at home but sometimes surrounded by family members.

odette commented on 13-Oct-2009 03:43 PM:

I Love needlepoint because of the symmetry - it always comes out even and perfect! You can do any type of stitch with any kind of fiber. Needlepoint keeps me sane and has helped me through some difficult times. Because modern needlepoint is not widely known here it gives me an opportunity to teach and create my own designs. I stitch almost everyday either on my own or with friends.

sue dulle commented on 14-Oct-2009 09:36 AM:

I have been needlepointing since I was about 8 yrs old with some time off to be a teenager and a young mother. Being a young mother I needed something to keep my sanity and needlepoint was cheaper than a shrink (reason 1). I tried cross stitch, it was less expensive but not as rewarding. I love to take a blank canvas, combine threads and stitches to make a design (reason 2). Today with all the threads, stitches, canvases and teachers available needlepoint is endless and such fun to do. Guilds, shop stitch-ins or just friends getting together is so rewarding and inspirational (reason 3). I think it is so rewarding to see all the different color and thread combinations that will be produced from a class project or just two people stitching the same painted canvas. Our personalities can shine and it also can be a history of our lives; when we look at our stitching we can usually remember what we were doing in out lives and how we were feeling. I try to stitch every day...A day without stitching is a day without sunshine. I love to stitch with friends but I also love to stitch alone...it really does not matter as long as I stitch!

Christy C. commented on 14-Oct-2009 09:12 PM:

It's very meditive for one thing, and I can also concentrate on other things and not have to worry too much about making mistakes. I've found some of the most beautiful canvas' - and I love the way they look, like an actual picture, when done. I stitch alone and, when concentrating on a needlepoint project, I'll stitch every day.

Tracy commented on 15-Oct-2009 11:22 AM:

I love needlepoint because of the versatility! I do alot of free-hand, so the sky is the limit! I also find it very calming & relaxing- so it's enjoyable. I stitch alone, it's "my time"... Tracy :-)

Sharon commented on 16-Oct-2009 01:54 PM:

I love the rhthym of needlepoint, the portability, I love starting with a canvas full of holes and ending up with "fabric"

Piroska commented on 17-Oct-2009 12:49 PM:

I love to do needlepoint because it's like magic, watching the canvas "bloom" into a picture...or a pattern. I love the different textures...the colours. I usually stitch alone, because it's almost meditative. :o)

Ruth Molenaar commented on 17-Oct-2009 08:37 PM:

Share with us why you Love Needlepoint!: I love the amazing amount of stitches--just change up a thread and the same stitch looks totally different! Please let us know three reasons why you like to needlepoint. 1> It is relaxing 2> It keeps my hands moving--I have arthritis in both hands 3> The sheer enjoyment of it--the color, texture, shapes. How often do you stitch? at least 3-4 times weekly--I would like it to be more, but I still work full-time and have family responsibilities Do you usually stitch alone or with other people? Both. I stitch alone, watching movies, I stitch with my daughters, 21 and 17, and also at my ANG meetings. Thanks for the generous give-away! Ruth Molenaar

TeaClare commented on 19-Oct-2009 06:39 PM:

I love needlepoint ever since my first project, when 9/11 happened in 2001. I was so unnerved and jumpy, i stitched a rather intricate Christmas stocking in 3 days-- and i had been picking at it since 1995. I love it 1) it keeps me sane and a strange calmness even when things are going haywire around me. 2)I love to watch the canvas become a threaded painting 3) i love the feel of the yarns or threads and 4-- i know you asked for 3, but the great feeling of accomplishment of creativity is the best!!I have mild cerebral palsy on right side, so i stitch, type with one hand-- would have loved to do other needlework but this is one i can really exceed at [i also do embroidery]. I stitch about 5 days out of the week and unfortunately, always by myself, though i visit with my sis, hubby, etc. sometimes while i stitch. Would love to join a group but i live in the boonies...thank you. enjoyed reading the comments.

Dawn Stone commented on 22-Oct-2009 04:54 PM:

My three reasons for this wonderful exercise is the pleasure I receive in working with my hands, the satisfaction of completing a project and that it is a great stress reliever. Before my child became a teen, I stitched every day. Now, not only do I have a teen, but we have horses too so I'm lucky to stitch once a week. I usually stitch alone because I can only stitch for a short time.

Mary Capito commented on 24-Oct-2009 06:28 PM:

I needlepoint because I love creating a finished canvas from many beautiful colors, designs and threads. I have been stitching since the 1960s; it is a wonder to watch how the technology has improved (more threads) and designs have gotten so much broader and smarter, more interesting (not just Elsa Wilson, however great she is). I stitch most every day. I was plagued with anxiety and sweaty hands for many years. Now there are medicines which make it possible for me to stitch again, and so it is a special treat for me. I stitch alone, or with my husband watching TV. The best stitching is with a group, which I am able to do from time to time. My mother was one of the first EGA Master Craftsmen, so I learned from a great teacher. Two of my daughters are now stitchers; stitching with them is the best. Thanks for asking.

Bailey commented on 26-Oct-2009 08:28 AM:

1. very relaxing 2. it allows creativity 3. the feeling of accomplishment when a piece is complete i stitch everyday if time allows. i am a college student so its hard to find fellow stitchers. i have taught 6 of my friends to stitch but they are not avid stitcher. and stitching before going to the fraternity houses does not get much support. However, i stitch with my mom when i am home on breaks otherwise i stitch by myself.

Anonymous commented on 30-Oct-2009 08:18 AM:

I have been needlepointing since I was about 8 yrs old with some time off to be a teenager and a young mother. Being a young mother I needed something to keep my sanity and needlepoint was cheaper than a shrink (reason 1). I tried cross stitch, it was less expensive but not as rewarding. I love to take a blank canvas, combine threads and stitches to make a design (reason 2). Today with all the threads, stitches, canvases and teachers available needlepoint is endless and such fun to do. Guilds, shop stitch-ins or just friends getting together is so rewarding and inspirational (reason 3). I think it is so rewarding to see all the different color and thread combinations that will be produced from a class project or just two people stitching the same painted canvas. Our personalities can shine and it also can be a history of our lives; when we look at our stitching we can usually remember what we were doing in out lives and how we were feeling. I try to stitch every day…A day without stitching is a day without sunshine. I love to stitch with friends but I also love to stitch alone…it really does not matter as long as I stitch!

Rabid commented on 31-Oct-2009 06:18 PM:

I like needlepoint because it gives me an excuse to try interesting threads, and a way to showcase them. I actually craft for a living, so I spend a lot of time looking at what's available, but for most of my work I don't get to try new threads or play with interesting new stitches and textures. Needlepoint offers me a great way to play with patterns as well, so it has a special place in my heart :)

Laua commented on 07-Nov-2009 04:57 PM:

I needlepoint because it relaxes me. It helps me unwind from a stressful day. It also enables me to think through issues passively. It keeps me from drinking and or needing a shrink! I stitch as frequently as I can. UI try to steal at least a few minutes each day. It's my daily therapy. I usutally stitch alone while watching TV. I can stitch when I visit with my stitching buddy. Or during our office Tuesday knitting sessions. Sometimes I knit, but usually it's needlepoint.

kathyrn commented on 16-Nov-2009 09:09 AM:

A little more than ten years ago one of my good friends learned she had lung cancer. For a year I took her to every medical appointment, and while waiting for her one day I decided to make good use of my time and start stitching again. I hadn't stitched since I was young. I brought my new canvas with me each time (and worked on it at home as well) and soon I was teaching some of the staff at the hospital and doctor's office how to needlepoint. I have been stitching every day since then. If seems to me in retrospect that my needlepoint was a counter balance to my grief. It helped me enormously. I stitch by myself so that I can settle down after work or for fun. I now love choosing canvases - yours are sublime! - and threads and making something come alive with my two hands. A footnote: some of our friends meet once a month to work on whatever project we are doing that month that is portable. I love these times also.

fran commented on 16-Nov-2009 09:15 AM:

I have been doing needlepoint for at least 40 years. In those years the only yarn available was wool, which I am allergic to! However, I persevered and continued working. When silk yarns became readily available I celebrated! Needlepoint has become m "sanity button" Years ago I owned a Yarn Shop and sold all kinds of yarns for all types of needlework. My days were filled with helping others to learn and finish their projects. The only thing that kept me from losing my sanity was needlepoint, and to this day I end each day working on one of my many projects. My favorite subjects to work on are the canvases that depict the Old Masters artwork. I also particularly enjoy working with decorative stitches. Thank you for all your assistance and good conversations!

Laura commented on 16-Nov-2009 09:18 AM:

I needlepoint because it relaxes me. It helps me to unwind from a stressful day. It also enable me to think through issues passively. It keeps me from drinking and/or needing a shrink! I stitch as frequently as I cn. I try to steal at least a few minutes each day. It s my daily therapy. I usually stitch alone while watching TV. I can stitch when I visit with my stitching buddy or during our office Tuesday knitting sessions sometimes I knit, but usually it's needlepoint.

candice commented on 16-Nov-2009 09:24 AM:

What a great set of questions and a great giveaway! i just read all the other submissions and it is amazing how much we all feel the same toward our needlepoint. I started needlepoint at a pretty young age. I am in my twenties and just started again. I have school and work so I dont get a lot of time to stitch, but stitch more in the winter months than the summer. I helped start a handmade club on my campus. There are lots of creative people around and have started to teach a couple of classmates. I stitch with silk only. I love the finished product and I love having the flexibility fo combining colors. I think you should post more of people's finished products. Hope I win the silk threads!

Rebecca commented on 16-Nov-2009 09:27 AM:

I know I would be lost without my needlepoint. I stitch at least five days a week. Some Sundays that's all I do. Much better than housework! I always stitch by myself, but I liked the idea of creating a stitch group. I stitch mostly smaller canvases as I like to get them finished! I think about doing a wall hanging or rug. Perhaps one day. I like the routine of stitching, that I make something of my own, that I have talent I can express, that there are so many wonderful choices and I can advance my skills with threads or more complicated projects. Thanks

Susan B commented on 19-Nov-2009 05:26 PM:

Stitching has been my passion for many years. Needlepoint takes away any and all issues of the day. It doesn't talk back and always makes you feel happy. It relieves the tensions of the day and sometimes the tensions of life itself. Nothing makes me feel better than watching a piece evolve into something spectacular. Some pieces you never want you finish because they have given you so much joy. The end results are the oohs and aahs you receive when you have your pieces framed. It is quite gratifying and makes you smile for a very long time. I stitch alone for 5 or 6 hours a day. It is my special time just for me.

Kay B commented on 30-Nov-2009 09:16 PM:

I lose myself in stitches - it is a great destressor...I love to give gifts that I have made - my favourite are those I gave to my Mum & Mum-in-Law - now passed...

Chas commented on 18-Feb-2010 07:31 PM:

I am an absolute beginner but am hooked. Where does one find good instructional information on thread strands to use in silk, wool etc. And where can you go to get answers to your questions? I find that printed canvases as a novice are great but kits sometimes don't come with the paint by number instructions! Also I am interested in working in historical Persian patterns and need to know where to go to find patterns - but it seems hard to find. Any direction from experienced and knowledgeable stitchers appreciated!

Carol commented on 29-Apr-2010 03:33 PM:

After stitching for many years (15), I took a long break when I was busy with my children and their activities. Now, they are in college and I have time to stitch again. I love the entire process -- finding a canvas I love, picking the threads and stitches, and finishing the project. I love stitching quietly at home and enjoy taking classes.

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