Good morning, and Happy Monday all around!
Today is the fourth installment of A Stitcher’s Christmas – my yearly series of give-aways running up to Christmas, featuring delightful needlework products from small businesses around the globe!
At the end of today’s article, I’ll announce the winners for last Wednesday’s installment, where three winners will each receive a beautiful hand-turned wood tool from Stitch In Turn. So read on to the end for the winner list.
Today’s give-away is courtesy of Needle in a Haystack in Alameda, California. It features all kinds of delectable goodies for stitching!
Needle in a Haystack is a locally owned needlework shop located in the San Francisco area, in Alameda, California. It’s been in operation for 21 years, since 1998! And that’s saying a lot, these days!
Haystack (or “the ‘stack,” as I fondly call it) is one of the few brick and mortar needlework shops left in the US with a stocked online inventory (with a regular shopping cart feature, so it’s easy to shop with them online), which offers on a wide array of supplies for a wide range of needlework techniques, including fine surface embroidery.
Cathe, the owner, is a wealth of information when it comes to the needlework industry, materials, threads, and so forth. She has been known to help many a customer out of a quandary. I hear from folks all the time who tell me “Cathe said to try….” or “Cathe suggested…”
If I had to nail down one thing about Needle in a Haystack that I particularly appreciate (aside from their online inventory!) it is their customer service. They are reliable and their staff is friendly, helpful, and efficient.
Today’s give-away features two prizes, one each for two winners.
The prizes are a delightful collection of needlework goodies that will start a stash for newbies or enhance your stash if you already have supplies on hand:
Fabric, including a piece of Tailor’s Chalk white linen (this is the linen I used on my Snowflakes ornaments) and a piece of 45-count Florence linen in white
Threads, including Trebizond silk, a spool of Silk & Wire, Silk Cartisan, and the new Silk Satin Chenille.
Tools, including a 5″ Hardwicke Manor embroidery hoop (the best hoops you’ll find on the market today), a pack of the Bohin Vintage needle collection, and a pin keep made by Cathe. The pin keep is part of Cathe’s new product line, which includes needle books and pin keeps, and made by her.
With the gifts in today’s give-away, you’ll have a chance to try out some new fabrics and threads, and to enjoy some fun additions to your embroidery tools and supplies.
You’ll also end up flush with needles! This is a terrific set of good quality needles in a variety of types and sizes.
(Haystack has a fantastic selection of all types of needles, if you’ve been looking for a one-stop shop for good needles.)
Give-Away Guidelines
This give-away has ended. Thanks to all who participated!
1. Leave a comment on the comment form below. If you’re not sure how to get to the comment form, click on this link – it will take you straight there. Your comment must be left on the website on today’s article, not on any other article. Comments submitted via email are not eligible and I am not able to reply to them due to time constraints. Please do not comment as a reply to another comment. Replies are not counted.
2. Be sure that your comment has a name on it that is recognizable as yours. For example, Kris is a pretty common name, so if your name is Kris, you might put your last name or your last initial, (Kris Kringle or Kris K). Or you might put a recognizable-to-you nick name (please not Santa Clause). Or you might add a reference to where you live – for example, “Kris in Christmas Cove, FL” or something like that.
The reason I particularly mention this one is that it reduces confusion when the winner is announced. It’s always hard to disappoint people if they mistake the name for their own!
3. Make certain your email address on the comment form is entered correctly, so that I can email you if you win. Leave the “website” line of the comment form empty. Please Do Not Put your personal contact information in the comment box itself. In other words, don’t sign your comment with your email address or your mailing address! That’s just an invitation for spam.
4. In your comment, answer the following question:
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
5. Leave your comment before 5:00 AM central time (Kansas, USA) Friday, December 13th. The winners will be randomly drawn that morning and will be announced at the end of that day’s give-away.
So go forth and comment, and by Christmas, you may have a whole new collection of Fun Stuff to dabble with!
The give-aways for A Stitcher’s Christmas are open to everyone, but please be aware that, if you are subject to customs or duty fees, they are your responsibility.
Tool Winners!
As promised, are the winners from the second installment of A Stitcher’s Christmas which featured three tools from Stitch In Turn.
The winners, randomly drawn by a random number generator, are:
Jacqui from Fredericksburg – the seam ripper
Heidi Aurich – the telescoping magnet
Kathy in Charlotte NC – the laying tool & case
I’ll drop you all a line today with further information!
Remember that a Stitcher’s Christmas #3 – Pink Delight, a silk ribbon embroidery kit from Di van Niekerk – is still running, and you can join in on that one until Wednesday morning!
Hope your week’s off to a great start!
My most relied-on tools are the pouches I keep things in. I have a set of makeup pouches – one for my needles and scissors, one for oorts. And a bigger mesh zip-up pouch for my main WIPs.
I reach for my I pair of angle pin-point tweezers! They help turn out delicate corners, pull out cut threads, pick up beads…their usefulness never ends!
My trolley needle! I find it easier to use than a laying tool, especially since I hold a hoop in my hand, and it’s harder to misplace since it’s on my finger.
without a doubt, tweezers!
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool would have to be a toss up between the bees wax I use to “tame” the ends of my metallic threads and the heat erasable pens I use to draw designs onto my fabric. I really do enjoy these contest and of course the chance to win such great prizes! Thanks Mary, your website is my go-to for all my embroidery!
It’s my scroll frame. Its supporting bars are at a gentle 90 degrees, so the frame holds itself up. Without this, I’d only be able to do tiny projects on small hoops, but with it, I’ve been able to do much larger and more satisfying pieces.
The item I reach for most is a good pair of tweezers. These are essential when doing goldwork to insure the turns, especially if the turn is more than 90 degrees. In stumpwork they come in handy for holding beads and other small items until they can be stitched down. And, of course, in removing threads and stitches for various reasons.
I have what is called mono vision contacts so I can see both far and near without the need for readers. That being said I have a collection of readers for 1.25 to 7.00 for magnifying purposes and they are the bombe!!
My most treasured tool is my mom’s embroidery hoop!!
These gifts look amazing and fun!
This looks amazing. And Kudos to a brick and mortar store that is still surviving in today’s market conditions! Bravo!!
My Dazor magnifier would be the next thing I would reach for after needles and scissors.
This give away is awesome!!
My favorite tool has to be my laying tool because it keeps my threads in line and helps my projects look good. My only problem is keeping it close because it likes to disappear! Answer – get two!
awsome variety of items. a great early christmas gift
My laying tool is always at hand to keep stranded threads neatly side by side as imstirch.
My most reached-for needlework tool is my needle minder. I can have several needles on it at a time and always know where my needles are – better than sticking them in the arm of the chair!
My ott lamp and magnifier are my most reached for tools and necessary for me to stitch! I have vision issues so good lighting and magnification is a must
I ALWAYS use my special magnifying glasses that I had my optometrist make for me to stitch with. I love working on high count fabrics and couldn’t stitch without them!
My favourite tool for stiching is the hoop. I can’t stich without it !!! Thanks from Spain
My favourite needlework tool is definitely my laying tool. It is a sterling silver gem which I treated myself to many years ago at an ANG seminar. It’s probably been used for thousands of hours as it works perfectly for laying threads (particularly in canvaswork), as that is my specialty. I like it because the tip is not too sharp so it doesn’t split threads or stab me too often. If I ever found another I’d buy it, but alas, no such luck.
The name hint is a good idea Mary! I’ll just use my full name…doubt that will be confusing …ha!
I’m not a great artist even with a stencil, so my most used tool is the water erasable transfer pen
So often I reach for an old fashioned orange wood cuticle stick! It can help lay threads, direct and point threads, ribbons, and fabrics in the way intended, while also lifting away stray fuzzies.
Thanks for this opportunity!
Loved reading the article about Haystack! I so admire your articles and would love to visit the shop in Ca. Thank you.
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
I would say my most reached for tool is my needle threader to allow me to thread most threads in various needle eyes.
I don’t currently have many needlework tools outside of the usual, scissors, needles, hoops, and such because I lack a good place for storing everything. Fortunately that will change soon! So, currently I’d say my embroidery stand. My husband got for me last year for Christmas and it has really helped when I need both hands free for my needlework! It is adjustable too so I can use it on a table or have it on the floor. It isn’t one of the super fancy ones out there that I dream about having some day but this one works very nicely for my needs currently and I love it!
At the moment, the tool I’m using most often is my HugLight, a bendable light that goes around my neck. I’m doing a lot of stitching during my commute, and this provides light when it’s dark outside. I’ve had it for years and I love it.
Besides my scissors I’d have to say my tweezers are my other go to tool. Because teeny tiny threads…
Reading glasses! Haha! Needle keeps are a must have, as well as needle threaders.
thanks for the chance to win and for the great introduction to Haystack. My favorite tool for needlework is my needle threader – old eyes just can’t see that eye in the needle very well.
At the moment, my favorite tool is my leather thimble. Some projects are just tougher to needle and the leather thimble stays on (my gorgeous silver one sometimes flies off) and it doesn’t seem to care if I have nails this week or not, and it does the job of keeping me from being poked. Next week it might be thread conditioner, but today it’s my timble–
Another great give away! Thank you!
Needleminder! For years, I would insert my needle into the fabric but inevitably would lose track of my needle and resort to looking on the floor on my hands and knees to recover a favorite needle. Now I use a needleminder and it has changed my life!
Honestly, the tools I use the most are my needle minder and my pincushion. If I didn’t have them I think I would spend a year’s salary in needles 🙂
Most reached for needlework tool – my clip-on magnifiers. I’m simply ‘blind’ without them.
Sherry
PS Thank you Mary for your wonderful service.
Whow! What a great gift and perfect for my plan for January.stitching…stitching…with No interruptions!!!
My most reached for needlework tool is my squissors – a cross between tweezers and scissors for cutting hardanger and I also use them for buttonholes in dressmaking.
Fabric, thread, and tools oh my!
Ada T
My most reached for needlework tool (after needle and scissors) is magnification. For me, this is usually in the form of readers. I prefer counted needlework, particularly reproduction or antique style samplers, and like to work on higher count fabrics – 36 to 40 count. And it’s much easier to stitch if you can actually see the fabric!
Although it depends on the project, right now I really love using Jenny’s Little Laying Tool
May favourite needle work tool are my hoops on a stalk with the attached sit on holder. This allows me to work with both hands which really makes the stitching go faster and is somehow more accurate and flowing. I am rubbish at stitching in hand and holding the fabric or hoop makes my left hand cramp which makes stitching a chore, not a goal.
I have a variety of hoops that I choose. Very common ones in different sizes. I have never tried Hardwicke Manor one…going to hop over to the site to learn more! Thank you for all the tips!
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
A: Seam ripper, because there is almost always a mistake to correct.
Howdy!
I think my most-often used tool (besides scissors and needle) is a highlighter, so I can keep track of where I am on my enormous cross-stitch projects. Or maybe it’s my Ott Light. Or maybe my DMC thread sample card. Or a good hoop. Or…
Oh, dear. I think I know now why my stitching nest is so cluttered…
I love my laying tools. Use it for everything, even a single stand,find my tension stays even.
Katkelmom
My favourite tool would have to be my melor. Traditionally used for goldwork, but it’s on the table beside me whenever I stitch any technique. It’s a wonderful laying tool, it smoothes laid threads, it is great for poking stuffing into tight corners for pin cushions or biscornu, and is wonderful for manipulating threads. All in all, indispensable!
Thanks to you and your wonderful suppliers for these fabulous goodies, what a fun thing to enter… and maybe come out a winner.
My favorite embroidery tool is my Lomax needle threader. Couldn’t stitch without it.
I always reach for my thimble first. Cannot imagine making any stitches without it. It is a favorite silver thimble that I have had forever and besides being perfectly functional, it reminds me of my grandmother and stitching with her.
I’m always reaching for a rule of some sort…to straighten something, center a design or even scratch my back!!
The tool I most often reach for while stitching is my magnifying headset. Even with the best light, I still need to use these. ☺️
My go to tool is my seam ripper. I’m always experimenting so I’m always making mistakes so I’m always taking out stitches. It might not be my favorite tool but it’s my most used.
I must say my laying tool. I have been expanding into some canvas work and found that this little tool is a must. When working with more than one thread it lays them down side by side. No twisting and the result is perfection itself.
As an aside, thank you Mary for your email every week. You are truly an inspiration to us all. I have learned so much from you. Again thank you!
Light!! Thats my favorite got to have tool besides needle and scissors! I have a variety of desk, floor, travel lights depending on my stitching situation- but good light is a must have!
Probably my most-used tool aside from needle and scissors is my needle threader—not the wimpy ones with thin wire, but the flat metal kind with hooks on the ends. I have carefully kept the same one for years.
My must have tool these days is my led light.
My most reached for tool is my Q-Snap. I like how easy it is to keep my project tight.
My favorite essential tool is post it notes. I use them to keep track of where I am on the pattern. I’d be lidt otherwise. Thanks for the giveaway.
I believe it would be a tape measure. I use it to decide where it start a stitching and to measure my linen.
Having just started back into embroidery from before my sons were born, the oldest being 30, my stash of stuff is quite limited. I found two plastic hoops in my stash so I’m making do with them for now. I do reach for either one of those when I start a new project. I don’t have much in the area of tools at this point. Unless you would consider the instruction videos on your website as a tool, they are invaluable to me at this time! Thank you Mary!
Thank you Mary and Needle in a Haystack for the terrific giveaway. My favorite tool is my laying tool. It is useful in so many ways.
My favorite needlework tool is … well, to be honest, I’m not sure mine is just a tool … my reading glasses. I pop them on over my regular bifocals and I am ready for any fabric. It makes using 40 count a breeze.
My favorite essential tool is post it notes. I use them to keep track of where I am on the pattern. I’d be lost otherwise. Thanks for the giveaway.
GOOD LIGHTING-need I say more??? just try doing anything detailed in bad light, and either the eyestrain or the headache from the super concentration on trying to refocus tween pattern/source of inspiration and fabric will make the experience a miserable one
melanie in hopewell
Needle in a Haystack looks like heaven! I may have to plan a vacation to Alameda, with empty suitcases lol.
My go to tools when working on a project are a pair of cheater eyeglasses and my Grandma’s embroidery hoop (old wooden one with a spring…not ideal perhaps but the feel in the hands..sigh..). But I believe a magnifying light or stand hoop will be on my Christmas list this year. I get too caught up in working and forget to take care of my eyes and body.
On a side note, I find your blog an absolute treasure. You are a wealth of knowledge, both in your craft and the resources you employ. Thank you for all you do to carry on the tradition of teaching others so these arts stay alive!
My favorite needlework tool are my sit on embroidery stands. It’s SO much easier to have both hands to work with!! I don’t know why I didn’t do this years ago.
Ooh I hope I win (and also you win, and you, and you)! My favorite needlework tool would be the little backpack I keep my current projects in. It keeps the project safe from picking up more than the minimum foreign materials, such as, er, catfur. Thank you Mary!
Oh my gosh, there are so many! But I truly love my water soluble pen, and my Frixion Slim heat erasable pen. They make it so easy to transfer a pattern and then disappear when I’m done. 🙂
My most reached for tool is my hoop stand that sits under my leg while I sew. It frees me to better guide stitches a d use 2 hands if needed.
These days the tool I need most is a lighted magnifying glass.
The tool that I reach for the most is my magnification lamp; it is most helpful in assuring that my stitches are placed correctly.
My light/magnifier stand, actually ordered from Needle in a Haystack!
Beautiful give aways! Thank You! Mary Kay
One of my favorite tools I us is my needle minder. When working on a piece that especially has multiple colors it keeps my needles and threads just where I need them.
My useful addition to needleworking is a small magnetic white board that I use to hold patterns and instructions while stitching. Always interested in your column and humor is a joy.
I love stitching, everything I do gets stitched and beaded, so my favorite and most used stitching tool is a good portable LED light. Thank you for this opportunity, your emails are the best that I receive each day, pHurst
The tool I reach for the most (besides needles and scissors) is a magnetic needle-minder. I used to always just “pin” my needle in the fabric, but now I couldn’t get along without one of my needle-minders… I have a growing collection!
My table top OTT light us my must have tool. It does help me to see where my needle needs to go. Even with my glasses I sometimes have a hard time.
My most reached for needlework tool besides needle and scissors is my threader shaped like a hummingbird. Next to that are my reading glasses that I only wear for embroidery as they are 3.o just so I can see everything well.
Thank you so much for this newsletter. It is a joy to receive every week.
Hi Mary,
My most reached for tool is my laying tool. I have several and there is always at least one within reach when I’m stitching.
Thanks so much for another fun-filled holiday give-away season. You’re the best!
Warmest regards,
Sandra F. in upstate NY
Tool I reach for the most – my lap stand!
Averil Svahn
My grandmother’s thimble… it is well worn but it fits perfectly and I always feel like she is stitching with me.
My project bags to help keep my supplies organized 🙂
I think my favorite tool would be my super pointy tweezers. They help a lot when removing thread from cut work or the nubbys that get left after I’ve had to rip out my mistakes.
Good embroidery hoops! (I confess I buy them at the dime store but I have never been able to resist a rare-on-the-ground Ben Franklin).
I would have to say my needle minder. I used to just put them in the arm rest of my chair until a guest unexpectedly found one! Ouch!
The most used needlework item I use besides needles and Dr. Slick microtip “hair” scissors is my lighted tweezers! I love the lighted ones! I can pull out loose or messed up threads, tighten up some areas, etc. I also use the Pearl P. Pereira “appliqué stiletto” a lot.
I do many kinds of needlework, including punch needle, so I use a lot of tools. Hope I win!
Love your blog…it’s my all time favorite thing on the Internet!
Mary Anne
What a fun selection for a giveaway!
I’d actually like to list two of my most essential needlework tools because they go hand in hand for me. First is my full spectrum floor lamp that sits next to my needlework chair. It provides excellent light for clarity, detail, and color matching. Second, I have two strengths of magnifying glasses that clip on to my eyeglasses. One is for routine stitching and the other is for very up-close work such as silk gauze embroidery. Both of these tools greatly reduce eye strain for me and make my needlework much more relaxing.
Jennifer B. in NEPA
I have to have my peepers! I used to be able to stitch without glasses, but age is catching up with me.
My favorite most reached for tool is my telescoping magnet. I inevitably drop a favorite pin or needle or can’t reach my thread snips and this wonderful tool helps me not to be disrupted from my work. I no longer have to get up out of my comfy recliner, set my lap app aside with my needle project and crawl around the floor looking for things that are hard to see at 11:00 at night. This tool might not be as beautiful as my scissors or as sought special needles and pins, but it sure is my favorite when I can just keep on stitching.
My favorite needlework tool is my light! I often want to work on a project in the evening, and need more light than a regular lamp can shed.
Favorite tool other than Needle and scissors —-what do I reach for the most?………. I think it is my thimble. I don’t usually use it for embroidery, but for ALL plain sewing it has to be on my finger or I can’t work.
My most reached for tool has to be my magnifying glasses but if you don’t count that as a tool then it would be my magnifying lamp. My eyes are getting older (but surely not me) and I need all the help I can get to continue to do my favorite thing.
Favorite tool other than scissors and needles would probably be my pin cushion. I don’t yet own a needle minder (I plan to make one once I find the right small dish/item).
Wonderful looking tools!
My headlamp with its magnifying lens is so helpful. I actually bought it for my husband, but I use it all the time for embroidering, lol.
I reach for Thread magic conditioner a lot! If I am having trouble taming my threads, it is quite helpful! However, a close second is my Scotch tape! I live in a dog and cat-blessed home. So by keeping clear adhesive tape around, whenever I see a stray hair on my work, it is so easy to clear and dispose of!
Oddly enough, my most reached-for tool is a straight pin. As an avid counted cross-stitcher, I use a sharp straight pin for several tasks – to separate my stranded floss after I have cut a length and looped it through the floss holder for the project at hand. I also use the pin to help ‘un-knot’ my thread – I slip the pin point through the knot to keep it from pulling tighter as I figure out how to detangle. I use the pin to separate the threads in my stitches and smooth them out if I see an area after the fact that doesn’t look quite right to me. And of course, pins are good for placeholders.
What a fun selection for a giveaway!
My favorite tool is a pair of sharp scissors.
Cindy, my comment came right under yours and I saw you posted scissors. Don’t want you to lose your chance. Can’t use scissors per instructions. Repost and good luck.
This was tuff but I came to the conclusion that it is my tablet. I use it for stitch guides, tutorials, inspiration, patterns and Needle ‘n Thread for all of that.
My sit-upon hoop Made a long time ago by a friend’s husband Let’s me use both hands while stitching
Hello Jacqui from Ontario, Canada. I too am from there! Hamilton Ontario. Now living in Arizona, USA, still Canadian at heart! Merry Christmas and cheers, Gloria
My go to tool is a very small pin cushion roll created by a stitching friend who has passed away. Stitched under the heart is the word “Friend”, (I think it is a Sweetheart Tree adapted design) not only is it so handy but it makes me smile and I think of a time when there was a “Circle of Friends” that did swaps and round-robins and gossiped, laughed and cried together. A word on Cathe and NIAH I Love, love, love Cathe and her team at NIAH! and you are right, they are a wealth of knowledge and always come up with alternatives for a fabulous buying experience. Cath’s customer service is immeasurable
Although it might seem odd at first read, my favorite go to needlework tool other than scissors and needles are my reading glasses. Right! They are essential, along with great lighting of course, to get stitches laid exactly how they need to be.
Once again, thank you and the fabulous vendors for offering wares and fun.
I have my support glove ready so that my wrist is comfortable while stitching!
A favorite tool of mine is my self threading needle. which enables me to bury threads on the back of my work.
Osteoarthritis has gotten to my hands. When I developed a knobby thimble finger I had to drop hand quilting because I could not get a thimble to fit or to stay on and I tried many. But in the last couple of years there have appeared thimbles with silicone rubber bodies and metal tips. The silicone stretches over the knob and voila! I can hand quilt again though not as much and certainly hand sew and embroider or applique using this thimble when needed.
My favorite go to tools is my pin cushion/thread holder. I’m always looking for a spot to park my needle and the pin cushion works for that and then the thread holder takes care of organizing the threads.
My go to tool is my needle threader!
Besides a good needle, I need my reading glasses to help me see what I am doing. I have several and love my 4.0 ones for working on linen!
Maybe this isn’t really a tool, but I’d be lost without my clip-on magnifiers for my glasses!
favorite tool – needle thread. I like it simply because my eyesight is not what it used to be and needlework is not something I am willing to give up. It is an everyday activity and pleasure.
Cheryl F. from Tyler Texas
I have an OTT Light that clips on to my embroidery hoop/frame with a magnifier. That is my most treasured embroidery tool.
My favorite tool is my stronger pair of reading glasses I keep in each needlework kit I have going….
You gotta to see to believe don’t you know!
My favorite most frequently used (and in this case, it means every time I stitch) is my very portable free standing lamp with magnifier. ‘Nuf said.
My favorite item to reach for is a rubber thimble. I can’t use a beautiful metal one because of metal allergy!
My most reached for needlework tool are my magnifiers-large, small, glasses, all of them are necessities!
My favorite needlework tool is my Lawrey needlework stand! It is the perfect way to hold my work in progress!
Two must haves…glasses and a good light because nothing makes me feel old and frustrated more than seeing a blur of colors when I want to play with needles and threads.
I must totally agree with Mary Needle I n a Haystack is a fantastic store and I use it a lot for kitting out projects I am doing. In fact this past weekend I just sent in another an order. I don’t go looking up each thread for a project I scan the materials list page for a project and send that to them to kit it all out and they send it on to me when complete. Works great and they keep me informed. I have never had a problem with them service is always great and they are very knowledgeable so if a thread is no longer available they now what to substitute. This store is an invaluable resource when you don’t have a LNS close by.
The tool I find myself using a lot is from Compustitch, the Star Detailor (http://stardetailors.com/). I purchased it from my LNS, and it is worth its weight in gold! I have two bad habits: 1) using floss down to the last tiny bit, to the point where the tail isn’t long enough to be easily pulled under to secure the end, and 2) trimming tails at the end of the project a little too enthusiastically.
The Star Detailor easily helps too-small tails become snug and secure, without a needle. I love it!
My best needlework tool is my flat iron for keeping threads laying perfectly flat.
Hmm…my favorite tool rather depends on which needlework I’m doing. Pliers for bead weaving. Pillow for needlelace. Hoop for surface embroidery. And I always have a cat or two handy to supply extra fiber.
A tool I really like to use is my needle keeper. No fears of sitting on a stray needle.
I most often reach for a laying tool which enables me to lay my threads perfectly flat.
Lately, my most-reached-for needlework tool seems to be a needle threader. I think that it’s time to update my magnification!
Based on your description and the wonderful goodies in the give-away, Needle in a Haystack is now on my list of places to visit! My favorite needlework tool is my needle threader (because I am almost 70=-)!
The tools that I “depend on” are: my magnetic board, magnetic ruler & a pencil! I make copies of the chart. I attach the first copy of the pattern on the magnetic board, & place the magnetic ruler on the chart as a placement guide. I also like to use a stiletto, to ensure the stitch is not too tight or too loose! Lastly, if I am stitching a high thread count of 40, I use my Ott light stand, then I attach the magnifier on the Ott light stand. I am ready to go.
Almost forgot to mention, I also rely on my Millennium Frame.
The needlework tool I use the most are my magnetic needle minders. I have a collection of them to use on every project. They keep me from losing needles while working on things.
I have a lovely, small sterling silver laying tool that I bought over 30 years ago when I first branched out from cross-stitching. I love it for the way it looks and for it’s usefulness!
It really depends on the needlework that I’m doing. If it’s canvas work, it would probably be a laying tool. If I’m doing goldwork, then my tweezers, which I also use as a mellor. For cross stitch, then I usually just need my needles and scissor, and I guess my pencil which I use to mark my completed stitches.
I love my magnetic needle holder. I have it on a large, long-term project in a frame so if I have to quit working in the middle of a thread, I just park it and leave it ’til next time. No worries about “hole marks” in my fabric.
Hi Mary,
my most reached for item is my Beatrix Potter Peter rabbit tin which holds everything I need to embroider with.
Best wishes to all xx
My most reached for tool is my Smasta tool kit. It is designed as a pencil and mobile phone case, but it is perfect for carrying all of my tools: scissors, telescoping magnet, laying tools, needles, tweezers, highlighter, post-it tabs, et al. It zips up for travel and when unzipped, it is a weighted, stand up case that takes up very little real estate on a stitching table. Love it!
My favorite go to tool is my magnifying glasses. Love them!
Jennifer Wollesen
My lighted magnifying glass- It is the only way I can do some of the stitches without going completely cross eyed.
My favorite needlework tool is probably going to give away my age, because it’s my magnifier with light! These days I can’t really expect to do any type of needlework without having extra magnification and extra light as my eyesight just isn’t what it was when I first started to embroider at age 6. I especially appreciate having two-in-one lighted magnification as that seems to give far better results than either a magnifier or good lighting by itself. I use either one that hangs around my neck, or a telescoping version that clamps onto a work surface.
Thanks for all these wonderful give-aways Mary! I rarely win things, but it’s fun to try! 😉
My favorite tool is an sliver antique sewing awl. It was listed as a short knitting needle on Ebay. Since there was only one they were asking about $10.00 in the buy it now offer. I bought it now!!!!
I use it so much (mostly for ripping out stitches) that I made a place for it in both my Strawberry Frye and Work Box by Carolyn Pearce.
My favorite needle work tool is my box of threads wound on those cardboard “thingys”. I find it easier to find the thread I want and to pull off what I need and keep it all neat. Yes, I am a bit of a neat freak!
My most reached for needlework tool is my magnetic needle keeper ( shaped like a hare). Used properly on my frame or hoop it keeps needles to hand but it is also brilliant at hoovering up the needles that somehow find their way to the bottom of my work bag. I love it because what I thought was a whimsical bit of tat is in fact useful and reminds me to be slower to judge and quicker to learn every day.
My favorite tool to grab other than needle and thread is my needle threaded 🙂
Hi Mary,
My “must have” for stitching is adequate lighting. I have several portable Ott Lights and I also have the Phive light that you had recommended some time ago. I love it! Wishing you a Happy Holiday.
Actually, my most reached for needlework tool is my magnifying glasses. I can no longer see the designs adequately without them, and then I couldn’t stitch. What a disaster!
My favorite tool(s) other than scissors and needles are stretcher bars. With stretcher bars I don’t risk damaging the ground fabric as I have done putting a hoop over silk. (Yes, it was wrapped.) The tacks/staples are all at the very outside edge of the fabric. If they leave holes, I can trim that narrow strip off. I get even tension over the entire fabric. Most pieces don’t need to be blocked which is especially important when using fabric or threads that aren’t washable.
My most often go to tool are your videos.
It would have to be my stylus. I use it to help keep fabric in place under the presser foot or to help hold gathers in place. It use is constantly.
My stitching magnifiers are next most important tool. My eyes have changed a lot over a few years and I want to be able to continue to stitch fine embroidery. I can’t stitch without them!
Oh, my goodness!!! I won! And such a lovely gift to win! Thank you, so much, Mary! I will be waiting at my mailbox with bated breath!
My most reached for tool is my small Ivation magnifier table light. I use it all the time. The big clamp works on my stretcher bars and the legs on the lamp make it perfect for table use.
My embroidery hoop. Can transport it anywhere.
My fingernail file, so I don’t snag my work!
My favourite tool after needles and scissors is my sit on frame. I just couldn’t manage to do some of the embroidery work I do without it, especially goldwork, as most of that requires you to use two hands at the same time! Also, it’s invaluable for keeping my linen tight so that I can again use both hands when doing embroidery, especially satin stitch, and even for just making sure my needles go through the fabric in the right position, which I find more difficult if just holding the material with one hand. The other advantage is when I’m doing French knots and bullion stitches, they are much more even [especially when using the correct needles!!] when in my frame, and again, the frame leaves both hands free to create the stitches. It’s definitely my third ‘can’t do without’ tool after needles and scissors!!!
Since I stitch designs with a lot is bead embellishments, I have to say, my threader. I use an ultra fine wire beader. It does not have a more distinctive name, but is carried in most fine shops The line has three sizes-heavy duty, regular, and ultra fine. It is packaged as one of each or as 2 of a kind. I never see it listed when threaders are evaluated, but I have tried them all, and for me, it is the best. The wire never pulls loose. It has gone through needles and beads that have stopped every flat metal threader I’ve tried, as well as other wire threaders, even brand-name ones. I have started seeing it packaged with different names on it. I could not stitch without it.
I love your tutorials!
I really like having my comfy chair when stitching, but tend to grab a cuppa tea as well. Have a blessed day….and love the vintage vibe the essentials from the ‘stack’ has. ;0) Anita from WV
My most reached for and used tool is my magnifying light. Unfortunately have reached the age where my eyes just don’t work like they used to.
This whole contest is so much fun. I really got a chuckle out of the needle keep! This is also a new contact for me. Happy to find them.
My absolute must have is my “Teeny Tiny Travel Tote” from Froncie Quinn of Hoopla Patterns. It holds everything you would need to sew, cut, mark templates. It’s a great tool. No affiliation, just a long time satisfied customer. I love the Hardwicke Manner hoop that I purchased from Needle in a Haystack! Thank you Mary.
Seam ripper and Judy’s boo boo stick!
A teeny-tiny pair of tweezers.
Thanks! I reach for my thimble almost every time I have a needle in hand. Thanks for your fabulous newsletter and website!
All the best,
Gika
My favorite and most necessary tool is my stitching light. Have a lovely holiday, Mary xxx
My needle threader and tekobari 🙂
I can’t do without my box lids! I know it sounds silly but they make perfect trays for keeping individual projects tidy and safe. I can pick the whole lid up and store it it a drawer to keep curious paws out! (I have four nosey cats). When I’m done with the project, I tidy everything away and gather threads, needles, etc, for my new project and put those on the lid ready to begin.
Thank you for this amazing giveaway, Mary!
Most important tool: Good lighting!!!
My “reading” glasses that are perched over my regular glasses.
Hi Everyone, My favorite tool is my sewing thimble. I can’t do embroidery if I don’t have it. My fingers are thin, so, it’s hard to find the right one, a very little one. I found one last year and get three of them. So easy to lost… I wish I will have one of those prizes!
I always add a magnetic needle minder onto the project. A safe way to keep track of the needles and the needles are available immediately for use.
My needle threader is my favorite tool. Nothing is more frustrating than not being able to thread that needle.
Beeswax. I find a swipe of beeswax really helps keep my threads under control.
I couldn’t work without a good strong pair of magnifying glasses. At the moment I am wearing a pair with only one arm, which is annoying but better than nothing since I forgot to pack others for a day of stitching with friends.
My seam ripper because I am a perfectionist and cannot stand to have work done with stitches that are not perfect. Krind
Sadly, my seam ripper has been used much too often.
Besides needle and scissors, the tool I use most often is probably tweezers.
My favorite tool that I can’t live without is the Star De-Tailor tool or in a pinch, a wire needle threader. It’s great for tucking in loose threads or threads that end up too short to finish because you’ve just got to get that last stitch in!
I love my lamp and magnifier. I wouldn’t be able to stitch without them. I also love my laying tool 🙂 Kim R. from Rochester NY
After needles and scissors I enjoy a good quality hoop. Like the ones made by Hardwicke Manor. I would really enjoy winning this kit. Thanks Mary!
The tool I always reach for alongside my needle and scissors is my antique silver thimble. I have used a thimble ever since I can remember and this one was given to me by a dear stitching friend.
I would love to visit the shop in person!
My favorite “go-to” while I’m stitching is the Snag Dab It for “pretty-ing up” wonky stitches.
My favorite tool to have on hand is my needle threader as I hate to wear my glasses.
My most reached for tool is my laying tool. I have learned over the years it is most dependable for achieving straight, evenly placed stitches – I love it! And thank you for these give-aways! Even if I don’t win I always learn about something new – thank you!
The most recent, as a matter of fact just the day before yesterday, reached for tool would be an embroidery hoop. This hoop is vintage, made of metal with a cork lining. The reason I reached for it was, honestly, not to use it to hold fabric for stitching but to figure out if it would be the right size to use for framing completed stitching!
Lately I’ve been doing a lot of stitching with linen thread on vintage Swedish designs and I can’t do without my beeswax first the thread.
Needlenhaystack is an A-Z wealth of shopping for anyone just starting out to the advance crafters in needle work. A great one stop shopping.
I have a favorite pair of reading glasses.
Good lighting is essential to stitching for me, I own several good lamps with and without magnifying lens.
My favorite needlework tool is not a needlework tool at all. My Mom purchased a small magnetic dish at a hardware store and gave it to me because I was always misplacing needles. Now, I do not stitch without this little dish by my side! The only drawback is that the magnet is so powerful that sometimes it picks up other objects that are nearby- barrettes, spoons, etc… I really do love it though!
My most-reached-for needlework tool is definitely my magnifying glass. (And, boy do I have a collection of them!) As I’ve gotten older and my distance vision has gotten worse, it has affected my near vision acuity to the point of tears. I wish someone had warned me when I was younger that this would happen. I’ve left far too many projects for ‘when I retire!’
Many thanks for all the great shopping referrals. I occasionally visit Oakland so will added this Alameda store to my list of laces to visit. I’m always looking for hand work tools. Lighting is my most important and the first thing I reach for when sitting to embroider.
Aloha, Melanie from Papalani
A good hoop and good threads as well
My favorite tool is my Trolly Needle. I have learned that I can wear it on my left thumb when doing cross stitch and keep all of the threads flat. I use it on my left index finger when working on larger pieces that I can’t hold in my hand. It has taken time and perseverance to accomplish this but it is worth it.
I am new to embroidery, other than dishtowels I made while I was younger.
The tool I use most is the dreaded seam ripper. Thank goodness for those little tools.
At 79 I make quite a few mistakes plus I would love to increase my “stash”
Thank you
Love the stash enhancement. Also nice to see the brick and mortar shop still alive and well on the west coast.
I have to admit that my favorite needlework tool would have to be my floor stands. I own several, but my favorite has to be my Gazelle. I also love my Lokscroll frames made by the same maker.
Thank you for sharing information and stitching.
The tool I always reach for is my thimble. It’s a finger thimble made out of leather with an elastic velvet band. It slides over any finger and fits perfectly. It’s protective but the leather is soft and comfortable. I bought it in Dallas a few years ago and I wish I had bought two.
My most reached-for tool is my magnifier-light. I couldn’t stitch without it! It lets me easily see my errors, and the stitches needed, as my eyes are growing older and don’t see as well as they once did. What a lovely giveaway Mary! Thanks for the chance to win some new goodies. Merry Christmas!
My favorite tool(?) is my pincushion with its variety of common pins & needles in different thicknesses and lengths. It is constantly by my side when I do handwork at home. When traveling, I take along a needle book….
I think your emails are terrific. Makes me feel I am there with you. My favorite tool is my needlethreader. (Old eyes need help)
My needle threader is my necessary tool. It saves me so much time. And the next is my needle minder.
I love the threads. They are not really a tool. I guess the iron would have to be my tool.
As I stated last year, my favorite needlework tool is the Star De-Tailor from CompuStitch (looks like a glorified needle threader). Its primary use is to weave in thread tails on the back side of embroidery. It also helps me finish a last stitch when the floss is too short for the needle. On occasion, I have also repaired torn or pulled threads in beloved garments! I am so fond of this item that I have one in every stitching tote!
I always reach for my lighted magnifier. I could not stitch without it.
A good light. I can do without many things for stitching, but my eyes need good lighting. I use a variety of desk lamps, book lights, and even head lamps (for those stitch-in-bed moments).
The tool I reach for most often is my laying tool. I have lots of opportunities to use it, and it makes the stitches look so nice.
My LED Desk Lamp allows me to see my work under bright light so is the tool I find the most indispensable – if I can’t see what I’m doing, it doesn’t matter what other items I may be using!
After scissors and needles, my most used needlework tool would be my Hardwicke Manor hoops. They are truly the best hoops on the market. I love how smooth they are finished and the variety of sizes and widths make your options such a wonderful choice. I also love how they feel in your hand when stitching; no other hoops come close to equaling them. Thank you for this opportunity.
As my eyes are getting old, I really appreciate having a needle threader available at all times. I keep it on a ribbon, right along side my scissors.
OH boy this is a hard one. First I never do anything without my lights: I use both Ott lights and Stella, both floor and table models. This is critical due to visual deterioration in the last few years. Number two: my sandpaper board, a critical tool to keep me and my work steady. Mary, all the gifts are wonderful. I’m making a personal Christmas list after visiting all the web sites (I’m in big trouble!! HA)
My favorite needlework tool is my stitching caddy. It is a lovely wooden open tray I received at Spring Fling several years ago (hosted by Stitchville USA). I keep needles, scissors, needle threaders, etc all handy in one place.
The pattern or picture is my most reached for “tool” if I am not following lines on my fabric – LOL! Besides that, I frequently reach for a needle threader or my size 14 crochet hook to fish thread ends through backs of stitches or to “punch” a hole in the fabric for an eyelet. LIGHT LIGHT LIGHT – however I can get it.
What a great way to try new fabric and threads along with the great needles and a hoop! Thank you. My favorite tool besides my scissors and needles would be my 4 or 6 inch Harwicke Manor wooden embroidery hoop. Cannot stitch without it. Thank you again for the chance to win. Happy Holiday!!!
My BLT (Best Laying Tool). It rests on my magnetic needle minder so it is always close at hand. Besides laying threads, it is also useful for slightly enlarging the holes in my canvas if needed.
I love my needleminders. I used to lose my needles all of the time, but not now. Thanks for the chance. Teal
Aside from my fabric, thread, scissors and needle, my most-reached-for needlework tool is actually my threader. At my age, I can’t sew without one! Of course, that assumes I already have my “cheaters” on!
Want a hoop like that
My thread stash!
Good morning.I enjoy reading your emails every morning over my second cup of coffee.
The tool I go for is my thread laying tool. It is never out of my sight or my hand. I use a lot of silk threads and my laying tool is always there to make me lay my threads perfectly.
Thanks for the wonderful goodies you always find Mary. Hope everyone has a very merry
Christmas and happy new year
Thank you Kathe for this giveaway gift!
Besides the usual stitching tools, I frequently reach for my little screw driver to tighten the screw on my hoop. I use it when setting up for a stitching session, and from time to time during the day if I feel my fabric getting loose.
Yay! Now I know where to order the Soie d’Alger threads, and the Au Ver a Soie metallic braid for your snowflakes! Thank you, Mary. Also nice to have a source for linen. There is only two shops in the 50 mile radius of my house that offer any type of linen, and none this fine.
Mary in Texas
I love my frixion pens! These work the best for me to transfer patterns. And a hot iron is all it takes for the lines to disappear like magic!
Tools we need them to make our lives easy. As I have grown older I find that my needle minder is the to I use the most. It’s just a little two piece magnet set that I attach to my stitching so I can drop my needle on. It seems the older I get needles and coffee cups go missing more often.
My most reached for tool is a tiny little threader that is in the shape of a cat. It is so cute! And I can thread almost any needle with any thread with it.
I always look forward to Mary’s posts and all the beautiful work. I am a novice embroiderer and want to try all the stitches! My goal is to develop my embroidery skills enough to work on projects to give to my grandkids. Something to remember that Grandma made especially for them.
My must have tool is my thimble. I’ve got an arthritis bump on my thimble finger and tried all types of solutions around the pain. I now swear by (instead of at, like the others that I tried) my soft plastic thimble with a metal rim and tip. And the company’s customer service was great – they sent me a new one when the first broke after years of use! (Now if I could only find the perfect solution for the under-the-fabric much-pricked finger)
Love this package, and enjoy the newsletters from “The Stack” and of course there is the small fact that Cathe is the only other Cathe that I know of, and that is pretty special!!!
I need to use an embroidery hoop to work on any kind of embroidery. I learned that way and I continue to use it all the time.
Hoops. I choose a size to match the project.
Lately it’s been my light/magnifier combo! Can’t seem to stitch without it! Lol
What wonderful sewing goodies! I sure could use them! I am embroidering every day. Right now making an embroidered quilt for my granddaughter.
My laying tool, which is like a third hand when working.
My favorite tool to use are my hoop or q snaps for holding my needle work. I couldn’t stitch without them.
My needle threader, of which I have several including a butterfly and a bird, is one my most used tools.
I use either my “star detailer” or my “dololly” to tuck in my ending stitches because I am notoriously prone to using the last little bit of thread that I can!
Oh Mary, another lovely give away! Thank you to you and all the wonderful vendors who have made these give aways possible.
You have been busy little elves!
Thimble pads! protection where it is needed with any excess bulk
Hi Mary, I like using either a 6 inch or 12 inch ruler and sometimes a tape measure for preparing my fabric and cutting my threads and various other things while stitching. This would be my favorite tool because I can’t imagine not being able to measure at various stages in a project.
My favorite tool which I rarely stitch anything without is my magnifying lamp which I learned about from Mary (thanks for all your wealth of information, Mary). What a wonderful aid it has been for me and has improved my final pieces immensely. My lamp has made my stitching life happier and simpler.
What fun to get such a lovely gift. Thank you Needle and Thread.
Besides needles and scissors, the tool I reach for most is the Stitch Fixer. One end looks like the eye end of a needle, but open on top so that you can push thread ends through to the other side. The other side is not quite a hook, but bent at an angle. I use that end all the time. I use it to rip out stitches, pull out knots, and to count on my fabric. The Stitch Fixer comes in the same sizes as needles.
Josie from Texas loves the wooden hoops I ordered years ago from Germany. Embroidery is my passion to add texture and interest to my quilting.
My various sizes of hoops are my next to favorite go to items!
I am a tool junkie. Part of the fun of any project is using my collection of tools. As I gather my materials before I jump Into a new project, I enjoy laying them all out in preparation. Needlework then tools rock!
The tool I reach for most is the laying tool…it helps keep my stitches flat and even.
Absolutely loverly! Can’t wait to try all these wonderful goodies. The “Stack” is the best.
Hello. Besides good scissors, my favourite needlework tools are needlecases to hold special tools. And small portal pincushions to have with every project. Every designer it seems to have patterns to entice us, for pincushions. These make very doable projects in various stitch techniques. Joyce Howell
Maybe this doesn’t count as a tool, but the bright LED lamp plus magnifier is in constant use at our home, and I couldn’t have done many of my recent projects without it. (It’s one of the ones Mary recommended, and I love it.)
If that doesn’t count, then I’m going to go with tweezers.
Happy Monday, everyone!
Karla B
Good Morning,
I use the laying tool that wraps around my finger at first it hard to use now it is like second nature.
Jamie C Cerda
Although I don’t comment often, I follow your posts regularly. I love your style, Mary. You’re top notch.
That said, I’d love to own all the goodies in this giveaway 🙂 It would encourage me to get back to stitching.
A great favourite for me is my mellor. It pushes threads to where I want them, makes holes and generally controls my work.
My favourite stitching tool, is not actually a tool per say, but if I didn’t reach for it I would never be able to stitch……it is my 3.0 reading glasses I use to do fine stitching!
I, too, love Needle in a Haystack, and visit their website often.
Sadly, the needlework tool I reach for most often these days is a needle threader. I have lots, and I’m always buying more, but they break easily. The ones I prefer are the ones that are squared off, but they don’t often fit in the eye of the needle I’m using, so I also need the others.
Thanks, Mary, for these wonderful giveaways!
My f. avorite tool(s) are the incredible choice of colors available today. They inspire me when I think “I can’t do this,” and lead me to gasp in delight when I finish a project.
My favorite most-reached-for needlework tool is my Hardwicke Manor embroidery hoop. Used plastic hoops as a child and into adulthood until I found these hoops. They are wonderful!
Hmmm. My most used tool, besides scissors and needle must be my computer. It is invaluable for finding, storing, printing and creating embroidery designs. It can show me techniques, allow me to read inspiring needlework articles, and order supplies and designs from all over the world. I guess it is not technically a “needlework tool”, but it has certainly made my embroidery life easier and more enjoyable!
I love my needle threaders, especially the ones for needles with tiny eyes!
My favorite “tool” is my cheater glasses. I tried a pair and was amazed at how much they helped. I only use them when I embroider so they really are an embroider tool.
My favorite tool is now my scissor/tool block! My friend built it for me using ideas we gleaned from other blocks. It is small 2″ x 4″ x 2.5″ and holds my metal ruler, 2 scissors, 2 spools, tekobari, other laying tool, 2 bobbins, and has a magnet on the side for needles. It’s perfect for all of my stitching, including goldwork embroidery.
Love your site. Looks like a great store.
Must have are scissors, any shape or size. I attach a ribbon so I can easily find them on my work table or when traveling.
This one required some thought. The tool I didn’t think I needed and now can’t stitch without is my magnetic needle minder. I’m beyond conscientious about keeping track of my needles. I worry that I will lose one and someone will step on it, or sit on it. It really eases my mind to know where my needle is.
Needle Minder (Magnetic)
My most favorite needlework tool other than scissors and needles is my magnifier! It fits like a headlamp and came with 2 different degrees of magnification. I am 67 years old as of today!…so I NEED MAGNIFICATION!! I would love one of those hoops, in fact, that is on my Christmas list!
The embroidery tool – my favorite – is something I cherish because I found it at a Goodwill store years ago. It is a wooden embroidery hoop with a woman’s name penciled inside. It was in a box with embroidery floss, needles and a few have finished embroidery linens. I was just a kid, but enjoyed trying to finish the dresser scarf embroidery as expertly as she was doing before it was given up.
Good morning, Mary! My next most reached for, without a doubt, is my magnifying glasses! Would not be able to do my beautiful, tiny SRE stitches and flowers without them!
The tool I use often is m=y Boo Boo stick. I am forever making mistakes and take out more stitches than I put in. My Boo Boo stick has come to my rescue in those instances. It helps me tidy up the linen so that I can continue with my stitching.
I would be lost without my ‘head band mounted’ magnifier!
I think my telescopic magnetic wand, as I’m terrible for dropping pins, and this makes finding them so much easier, and pain free!
My magnetic needle minder after suffering from a needle in the foot.
I reach for my very bright light. I am older and need that extra light. I also reach for the needle threader for help threading my needles. I’m grateful that I have these tools to help me.
Thank you so much,
Linda Goode
from Wyoming
I think my favorite tool is my magnetic wand! I’m very movement challenged, and getting down on the floor to pick up something I dropped is awful. I got the wand, and voila!! Its no longer a problem.
Thumbs up for Needle In A Haystack. My favorite tool is a Puffin Company micro threader.
My favorite needlework tool is my needle threader. I don’t care how many other techniques I try, I have trouble threading any brand needle with the exception of the stitchy-bob needle. They are rather expensive so I don’t have many of them. I do a lot of full cover and large projects so I keep many needles threaded and ready to go.
I have a small collection of hoops and frames which help to keep my embroidery projects nice and taut and ensure my stitches sit well.
My favourite tool would be a toss up between my extra strong readers and my washout crayola markers depending on the type of embroidery. The latter wash out every time and the range of colours help.
My go to tool when stitching is my needle threader. I have several sizes for different size threads.
My favourite tool is my wooden laying tool, makes my stitches lay so nice and flat, especially good for ribbon and multiple strands. Thanks for the opportunity to win this package.
I like perusing their website … lots of fun goodies!! They sure have put together a lovely package for you to gift-away! 🙂
*Addendum… I was so excited by the goodies, I forget to share my favorite tool. Sadly, it’s my reading glasses. LOL! I cannot work for too long without them these day!! 🙂
My favorite tool is a needle threader.
My most reached for tool is my Infila Antomatic needle threader. Tired eyes and a bit past middle age has made needle threading a nightmare. This little gadget works great on most project threads and saves a lot of time and frustration!
Janis P in HB
I probably reach or go searching for my Beam n Read light that hangs around my neck. I use it for most of my handwork. My glasses are great, but the extra light really helps on these aging eyes. Probably should buy a couple more of those Beam n Reads for my many projects. I also keep a supply of thimbles in each of my project bags. I finally learned to rely on them for appliqué/quilting, and embroidery. I have my mom’s and grandma’s sterling silver thimbles, but I find the little green clover thimble has such nice deep dimples, it works the best for me.
My new aficot. I am making 1/4” hems on linen napkins. The aficot smoothes the folds before and after stitching and makes precision and neatness possible.
Many thanks to Cathe Ray and the Haystack staff for a wonderful collection of “goodies”!! To pick a favorite needlework tool is almost like picking between your children. BUT I would have to say that specific needles; Bohin tapestry needles used to be my favorites but as I do more stitching on high end linen and blackwork, my favorite needle is now the John James #10 ball point bead embroidery needle.
Anne
My favorite sewing/embroidery tool is the little round leather stick on fingertip protector that keeps the fingers safe from needle sticks.
In my old age I have developed neuropathy in my hands and legs. So when I stitch, needles and pins and all sorts of other stuff seem to end up on the floor. So my telescoping magnet helps me so much in picking up the pins and needles. That is my very favorite go-to tool in my sewing kit.
My favourite tool after needles and scissors would be my small powerful magnet that I keep on my work, it holds my needle safe so I don’t have to spend time searching for dropped ones.
Believe me, I know how odd this sounds – the thing I reach for the most right now are paper towels. I’m working on an applique project with a LOT of embroidery embellishment and I need to use the hoops for some of the stitching. I place paper towels between the hoop and my stitching. It keeps the stitches from getting squashed.
My favorite tool is my hardwicke manor hoop. It keeps my work very tight and feels good to hold. I have every size. They are fantastic!
I’m a serious novice at embroidering (and I’m not kissing up), your tutorial videos are probably my most used “tool” at this point, there are times I watch them over and over trying to learn a stitch I need for a project. So thank you for making them and offering them to us so freely. Thanks, also, for these lovely give-aways, makes Christmas even more fun! Your posts are always inspiring and I often recommend your website to my friends.
I reach for my sewing magnifiers immediately. I have used the same MagEyes headset with interchangeable lens for years. They have accommodated my changing vision over the years and despite trying other methods, I always return to the same headset.
Thread Heaven
Deb in the middle of nowhere Kansas
The one item I will not stitch without is my Dazor magnifier lamp. It not only provides good light so I can see exactly where to put the needle, but it keeps my eyes from straining. It also keeps me sitting more erectly without the usual stitcher’s slump. Both are important when you reach the seventh decade! As for where to put my needle, well I prefer to stitch on fine linen of 40 count or more so the lamp is invaluable!
My favorite tool by far is my needle minder. I love it above all the other tools I have. With cats, it is frequently necessary to stop suddenly when they jump up into my lap. Being able to drop my needle and not worry that it will end up in a foot or paw is priceless.
I would have to say my Ott lights!
My light is the tool I need the most. West Coast winters are dark during the day and for night time my light lets me stitch forever.
Thanks
For my needle painting, which I love, is the best hoop I can find and a perfect needle.
What a wonderful pack of goodies! Thanks for always gifting us every Christmas! My favourite needlework tool is the laying tool that I use for embroidery and other needleworks. I do a lot of Hungarian embroidery since the age of 3, am now 64. I make and sell Hungarian embroidered hearts and Hungarian men and women ornaments dressed in Hungarian costumes. We used to use long needles to lay the silk threads years ago. Now with my laying tool it is faster and much easier. Hungarian embroidery is perfectly laid side by side and with close stittches. I love the laying tool being offered that includes the case. Mine is kept in a felt bag I made with of course, Hungarian embroidery on it.
My favourite tool is my Lowery stand. It holds all the frames and hoops I will ever use, and is permanently to my left, next to my needlework table. I’ve owned it for more than 30 years, but being metal, is indestructible. I can also use it in the garden, and have made an attractive sand bag, which which to anchor the base plate.
Love hearing from you regularly.
My favorite tool is my thread caddy from Barnetts Laptop hoops. I use it every day for embroidery and hand quilting. Hand made by Harry in Massachusetts. Threads and tools for a project all in one place. I never have to wonder where anything is. Couldn’t live without it.
My favorite tool is a sewing tools bag my stitching friend made for me. It carries all my essentials. It easy to take along to classes or have at my magic chair. It unzips and there are my pencils, scissors, needles, pins etc. it is especially dear to me as it was made by my stitching friend with whom we have shared many needle held hours
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
First, what a lovely store referral – thank you! When I do have to shop online I like to order from a “bricks and mortar” store – so this is a great connection.
My most reached for tool, besides my needle and scissors is my very tiny crochet hook – I can use it as a laying tool, but it also sorts out little notes and holds things when necessary 🙂
Thanks
Sian
My needle keeper. It is magnetic and I keep it next to e or in the corner of my project. Those who sit in chair appreciate it too! The don’ t accidentally find my lost needles when they sit down.
Stacy jenk America.
My favorite ‘tool’s is my Hardwick embroidery hoop. Holds fabric nice and taught and it is comfortable to hold.
Can’t do without my needle threader. They seem to disappear a lot, so I have several!!
DD in Montana
My favorite item to keep close by when doing handwork is a pair of tiny Gingher gold-plated embroidery scissors that I won in a giveaway many years ago. Their retail value then was $40, so I was impressed with them, to say the least. 🙂 At that point, I didn’t have much in the top of the line mode so they were and still are very special to me.
This would be exciting if I won. I love to do hand stitchery.
My favorite stitching tool is my very good light that makes all stitching possible!
My most used tool would be a ruler or templates for marking seams on my crazy quilt blocks
I have a comfy chair for stitching which works with my bad back BUT I cannot stitch for long because I find myself bending forward or sideways or whatever and then my back lets me know for the next few days. I found a lap desk at a yard sale and it makes a huge difference. It is flat so it will hold my work and raises that work to a comfortable level eliminating back strain. I am going to tweak it a little by attaching something to hold some accessories and possibly gluing a magnet to the board.
I have to say that my magnetic board on which I hold my cross stitch patterns or whatever needlework type pattern I may be doing at the time is very useful to me. I can keep track of my last stitches if I have to leave my work. It’s also handy because I can temporarily place my needle on it as it magnetized.
P.S. I enjoy your website and I have purchased from Needle in a Haystack— they are great!
I reach for my overly strong reading glasses!
My most used tool is a highlighter to highlight the stitches I have stitched on my cross stitch. Now say that fast! LOL
Have a great day Stitchers!
I recently got back into cross stitch after a hiatus of more than 15 years….so moving from 14 count Aida to 40 count linen has been quite an adjustment so I would say my most reached for “tool” is my magnifying light so that I can see the actual square to stitch in!
My go to tool beside the needle and scissors would be the hoops.
I have found myself using hoops more often now a days.
And I love my Hardwicke Manor hoops. Enjoy your stitching ladies.
Thanks for the chance to win.
My favorite tool for stitching is my wooden laying tool. There is just something to feeling its smooth surface and then using that surface to perfectly lay my stitches. There is such satisfaction gained from having perfectly layed stitches on any piece.
Wow what a great gift! My Dazor lamp with magnifier is indispensable!
My most used sewing notion is my seam ripper. I have a nice wooden handled one, much like what you just gave away.
Love, love, love “the stack’s” hoops. I won’t buy anywhere else. I must have a hoop, wrapped bottom part, in order to stitch. Good hoops that really tighten are hard to find. I have several sizes.
What beautiful gifts. I’m almost speechless, there have been so many lovely things to get my stitchy fingers on.
We are a lucky bunch of stitchers to have these gifts presented to us.
Thank you to Mary and all her stitching friends.
Now my favorite tool for needlework is my magnifier to help me see my work close up! I easily continue to do my needlework because of this tool!
I hope I’m the winner for the Needle in a Haystack package!
Thank you!
Sharon Soldo
I have to have my 4 X magnifyers to see the threads clearly.
My favorite needlework tool is my “Sharon’s Laying Tool.” It is long enough to fit comfortably in my hand without “finger fatigue” and using it has improved my stitching so much.
My most-reached-for and favourite needlework tool are my snips!
I have a good collection of small embroidery scissors in a rainbow of colours but I prefer using my snips.
And may I take a moment to Thank you Mary for another wonderful year! You inspire me with all your new projects and teach me so many things about needlework. Time for you to take a bow!
My favorite tool, outside the essentials, is my sheep needle minder. It is a little wooden sheep with coils of real wool attached. Very sheepy, super cute, and does double-duty as a needle conditioner in a pinch.
The snow is softly falling but I am inside stitching with my cup of coffee. Could life be much better? Yes! I could win a group of needlework treasures to play with. My third most-used tool would be a tiny crochet hook to tidy up the back of my embroideries without having to re-thread a needle. The size depends on what thread I’m using.
I have a small library of embroidery reference books and I have an IPad. They are both close by as I sew because I always need to check something . My embroidery reference books are in a rolling type of a bookcase . They are first out of the door in case of emergency.
Sad to say it, but my seam ripper. Can’t imagine my workbench without that thing.
I think that reaching for the proper hoop for the job. I always look for the hoop first.
My favourite most reached for tool is a propelling pencil with a very fine lead to remark details on my embroidery as I usually work on things that I have marked up myself. Granny from Zimbabwe hi
my favourite tool is well used and tried. my great grandfather was a blacksmith and he made for his daughter a set of small clamps to help her hold layers of various thicknesses together. it works!
Loved the website.
Following and reading your blog has helped me with my embroidery and other needlework projects. Thank you for what you do and how well you do it
My most relied on and frequently used item in my “equipment” stash is my needle threader. (of course after the needles and scissors). Actually, I have a selection of threaders depending on the thread I’m using. They range from the bulk standard thin wire ones with the plastic handle to the cute and useful hummingbird style for the very delicate threads. And then there is the flat/wide metal Clover threader for those heavy decorative threads. They are either in my needle keeper for the current project or in my zipper bag that includes my favorite scissors, thimble and marker.
I use my grandmother’s hat pin to help me pick out, pick around or just in general to clean up stitches that need to lay down nicer.
Love your suggestions. Always right on point.
Thank you. And, Merry Christmas.
My favorite needlework tool is my magnetic needle minder. It’s painted with a delightful little hedgehog! I collect hedgehogs and this minder was a gift from my daughter. It’s very useful as when I stitch I am always losing needles and threaders! I have done cross stitch for years but recently discovered embroidery and I’m teaching myself embroidery stitches. I’m left handed so that is sometimes a challenge. Love your blog Mary!
Most reached-for needlework tool other than needles and scissors? It would have to be my flexible, portable Jansjö LED Work Lamp. Good light makes all the difference! Thanks for the fun give-aways, Mary.
Aside from my needles and scissors, my most reached for tool is my Uncle Bill’s tweezers. They are fantastic for picking out pieces of fiber when I have to undo some of my stitching. They are also great for precise removal of stray fibers shed by certain threads. Also, this doesn’t happen often and not usually associated with stitching, but they are the best at removing splinters, even the tiniest.
I would love to win one of these fantastic packages. I like using different fabric and a variety of threads and have a beautiful thimble that I enjoy using. Karen T from Ontario.
I would have to say that my beeswax is most most used “tool”- I cannot do any plain sewing without it! However, for embroidery I rely most on my tweezers and a laying tool. They are indispensable tools and can be used in a variety of ways to insure flat, even stitches and proper placement of stitches.
Most relied on, without a doubt, magnifiers… and daylight if possible.
I could not stitch without my Dazor lamp. Best investment I ever made.
My favorite tool is a dental tool for scraping teeth that my dentist gave me. Perfect for frogging stitches!!!
Thank you, Mary!
My clear ruler with grid marks! I measure everything – to center a motif, to line up a border. The see-through ruler makes that easy.
What a fine give-away plethora! Yet, Mary, you give us a difficult challenge – naming our most reached for tool while excluding our needles. The monies I have spent on searching for the perfect needles in the past two months – absolute silliness! So disregarding those needles the most reached for tool has been the bar of pure bees wax. I’ve been working Hazel Blomkamp’s Late Harvest and the wax has helped immensely in taming those threads into small needle eyes as well as easing the way in needle lacing the beads for the luminous grapes. Thank you and thanks to Needle in a Haystack for their incredible selection of stitching accoutrements!
Well, lately my most reached for embroidery tool outside of needles and scissors is my little screwdriver with the fat wooden ergonomic handle and the blade that is just the right size to fit the screws in embroidery hoops. It’s also short enough to fit in my little kit I carry everywhere with scissors, needles, collapsible origami ort box and current working threads.
I can no longer tighten screws on hoops with just my hands to make them tight enough to do the job. Then if I’ve managed to get the hoop tight enough, I can’t easily loosen the screw or nut. I’m having to use only hoops that can tighten and loosen with a screwdriver so I keep that little tool at the ready at all times.
As my eyes have aged, my magnifying lamp has become increasingly valuable to me. If such a tool did not yet exist I would have to invent it myself in order to keep stitching!
My Hardwicke hoops are one of my favorite tools. When making smalls and stitching small samplers I use a hoop because of the arthritis in my hands. It is the easiest to hold. Hardwicke makes the best hoops.
My most used items would be my needle book and LED light tracing pad.
This is a difficult question but I think the answer for me are my Hardwicke wooden hoops,I love how they keep your designs snug whilst stitching is happening.
Sue Thomas
Don’t know if others consider it a tool, but I do. It’s plastic boxes. They allow me to easily transport projects and keep everything neat and tidy. And you can easily see what is in each box or label and relabel them. I use them every time I stitch.
My fave needlework tool is my plain old needle threader! It would be time consuming and frustrating without it!
I must say I have 100 gadgets that I use with my stitching. I admit I have quite a gadget problem. But the thing I always go to,The one thing I will always need are my stitching glasses. Regular magnifiers can give me a headache, so I had my optometrist make me a pair of glasses with my prescription but with magnification. I absolutely love them! I also try never to stitch without good light. I have a light problem also. I won’t even tell you how many I have. I love the Needle in a haystack website. It’s one I browse frequently. Thanks for your days of Christmas Giveaways. I was like to see what you’re interested in! Merry Christmas and a blessed new year.
I’m often reaching for the needle threader! Thank you for the lovely giveaway 🙂
Hmmm, that would be a “toss up” I would say. My “over my other glasses” reading glasses, my magnifier light (Yes, I use both together quite often with the tiny linen count I often use), my frames for holding the work, whether the one that sits in my lap or the floor stands, and when doing my x stitch I hold my laying tool in my right hand along with the needle (which passes back and forth from right to left hand depending on whether it’s on top or underneath the fabric). I don’t think I would want to be without any of them!
It must be my micro needle threader, with age & all that I need it more than ever!
I never leave home without my clip on magnifiers.
These tools would be wonderful to own, always looking for tools to complement my stitching.
If I have to choose another, I must choose 2. 1st my Ott Light, couldn’t stitch without it. 2nd my Mageyes magnifier, couldn’t stitch without those either. Love your Christmas give away even though I don’t win, lol.
Lesta
St Augustine Florida
It may be a bit of “cheat” but my favorite needle-working tool is the Needlenthread website! I always have my phone next to me while I stitch in case I have a question and can just check Mary’s website for an answer or tip. It’s like having a coach with you all the time. Thanks!
I also recently tried the Elbesee Seat Frame which is a game-changer. Both hands free!
Would love to winner the wonderful gift today!
Love the needle minder!!!
The most picked item would be my little lanyard I made that has my tiny scissors on one side and small pincushion on other…..
Lately I am really loving the small Fiskars “children’s” scissors. They are blunt tip so don’t damage fabric (or myself), they cut both fabric (small cuts) and thread well, and they are relatively inexpensive—only a few dollars each. Amazon sells a ten-pack!
I think my most used tool are the screwdrivers I keep everywhere for tightening my hoops.
The mighty Tekobari is my trusted tool to get a grip on things. With it I can adjust, burnish, lay, pick, remove, smooth, straighten, and tap. Inspite of being round, it does not roll away…. so…sometimes, as a last resort, I talk to it.
My absolute favourite go to item is my Great Aunt Amelia’s bone thimble. It’s over a hundred years old now and I sadly barely knew her so it is very special to me.
My favorite tool to reach for is my thimble. I love using one, it makes me feel like a grown up.
My tiny light is indispensable on cloudy dats!
Jeanette sclar
There are two tools for which I reach regularly. One of course is my laying tool so I can make my multi strand stitches look pretty! The other took is Dritz’ “Snag Nab It”. Since I mostly work on canvas, when those pesky really tiny thread come popping through to the front from the back, I use the “Snag Nab It” to push them right back down from where they came. Quite handy, indeed.
Thank you!
My new favorite needlework tool is my laying tool. It is about 4.5 inches long and has a smooth stainless steel shaft and a lovely, slim wooden handle (maybe rosewood). It fits my hand perfectly in both size and weight. It has definitely been a key factor in improving the quality of my stitching.
Of course I need a good needle and thread, but after that I need my pattern — can’t make a lovely stitchery without a clear pattern!
thanks Mary!!
My magnifying bifocals that are extremely hand when doing delicate detail work. Also my hand sewing gloves that are great when work for long periods of times.
My favorite needlework tool is a laying tool. I love using this tool when I am working on a cross stitch project and embroidery project. I can even use a laying tool when machine piecing quilt blocks.
I was trying to think of my most reached-for tool – was it my laying tool, my sticky bead mat? But no, it’s my magnifiers. I have ones that clip on my glasses and I can’t stitch without them. They flip up when I want to see in the distance and flip down for close work. I’ve been known to put them on to read fine print or pull slivers. Most of my stitching friends wear them too and when we need to look at each other during a conversation, flip, flip, flip up go the magnifiers almost in unison.
My absolute favorite tool (if this counts as a tool) is my relatively new System 4 needlework stand (which I purchased from Needle in a Haystack!). If that does not count, I must say my laying tool. I use it frequently to adjust, jiggle, smooth, or tension stitches all the time. Plus, the stand (first time using one) has got me going with both hands, so I am using all tools more now.
Most used? Probably my needle threader, specifically a Clover 8611. If you yank on the tip too roughly you’ll break it, but otherwise it’s perfect for what I need. I’d been shredding floss with the other sort of threaders I’d been using, and this design really stops that.
My favorite tool is actually my Needlework System 4 table-top stand with frame clamp. I love using this well made stand rather than holding my hoop or frame in my hand because it allows me to use both hands when working on my project.
Ellen in San Mateo Ca, my favorite embroidery tool is my Comfort thimble. I am very particular when it comes to my thimble. I only like one kind. They are hard to find and when I loose one I have to run out and get another or two or three right away, even though I have several in different places for just that reason.
Hi, Mary,
The tool I reach for is my magnifiers. I can’t stitch without them.
If magnifiers don’t count as a needlework tool, then the tool I reach for is a hands-free hoop, the kind with a base that slides under me.
Beth B in Charlottesville, VA
My favorite tool & most needed is my OTT lamp. It makes it so much easier to read the patterns & eliminates eye strain!
Stephanie D
I seem to use my hoop for most of my projects. A good hoop makes life so much easier when stitching.
My grandmother’s thimble is always on my finger. It fits me perfectly. I found it in a drawer of her treadle sewing machine when it came to live with me. I often think of her when I’m stitching.
Besides needles and scissors, hoops are important to me. Especially hoops that hold the fabric taunt are my choice. Investing in good hoops makes such a difference when stitching.
Most reached for tool is leather needle pads instead of thimble.
My most-reached-for needlework tool is probably my magnifier, which clips onto my glasses. I need it to start my day of stitching and it is close at hand.
The Boo Boo stick is my favorite tool.
My favorite needle work tool is my Klass & Gessmann hoop and fanny stand. It is my second hoop from them, I got my first when I was 10 and it lasted me 40 years before it was lost when my roof collapsed from a heavy snow. They are well made hoops and the fanny stand is the best thing ever. I can work with my hoop with 2 hands now! My old one had a screw clamp that could attach to a chair arm or a table so I never really used the clamp. The fanny stand lets me sit in my chair and be comfortable while I stitch.
Embarrassingly, my most used tool is a microthreader from Puffin and company. I do a lot of appliqué and the threader is perfect for the very thin silk thread I use. I often shop at Haystack; it’s a great website.
After a needle and scissors my most reached for “tool” is a reference book of stitches such as Mary Thomas’s Dictionary of Embroidery Stitches. Reference books are a good reminder of the abundance of interesting stitches that one can incorporate into a project.
SLK from JNU
My favorite tool are my hoops and frames that I use for embroidery, needlepoint could not do without them.
Well, I really don’t know. It’s good to embroider with the fabric well taut in a good hoop and it’s nice to use a thimble. But I learnt to embroider without them, so…. Since I have to choose one of them, I’ll choose the hoop.
I love that needle keep! I think I need one. My favorite tools have actually come to be a stumpwork tool set I picked up at NIAH! It’s tiny tweezers, scissors and a few different types of pluses. I thought it would just be useful for stumpwork but I use them all the time on detailed pieces and love them.
My favorite needle work tool, and tool in general, is my table top Ott Lite. Without good lighting, any type of hand work can be very frustrating!
What a delightful prize with so many new things to try out!
I always enter and would love to win
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is a small project bag where I keep a variety of sewing-related necessities, e.g. laying tool, magnifying glass, seam ripper, etc.
My most used tool is a dental tool that allows me to Frog Stitch without accidentally flinging my needle across the room. Many times your Dental Hygienist will share their old tools with you free of charge.
I have just started goldwork and love using a mellor. It makes everything look more professional.
I have a gorgeous work basket made from willow that goes everywhere with me.
My most reached for needlework tool is a little bottle brush looking thing – picks up pieces left after ripping out – something I do more than I like. Think it is called a boo boo stick…..
Thank you
My favorite tool besides needle and scissors is my needle minders. Always using one to two! Thanks!
Does a magnifying lamp count as a tool? I find mine indispensable.
But if if that is more accessory than tool, then my favorite tool must be the Puffin micro needle-threader, which I bought from Needle in a Haystack, a wonderful store.
Thank you, Mary, and thank you, Needle in a Haystack.
My organizer bags. I keep all the needs for each project in a separate bag and I’m ready to grab ‘n go!
Thanks so much, Mary.
Beth
My favorite tool, after needle and a hoop is probably my lighting! It is an absolute must for certain times of the year. After that – my laying tool… I love to make those stitches ling up straight with no twisted threads.
This is hard. My favorite needlework tool is my handturned wood handled seam ripper and awl. I would rather feel wood in my hand than plastic when having to frog stitch.
I love my Roxanne thimble!
My most reached for tool is my laying tool. Got to keep those threads straight!
My favorite tool is my seam ripper. I am new to embroidery again after a ten year break. I was actually just wanting to make some red work dish towels. I found your website and traced the folk flower pattern just using a pencil. But now I just can’t stop. Your website is a great resource and is so inspiring.
Probably my wooden laying tool.
My hand turned laying tool is my favorite tool. It’s beautiful and so useful. Besides using it for embroidery I use it when I hand quilt. If I have to pull the thread back to re do a line of bad stitches it’s just right for that task too.
My favorite must have when embroidering is a good hoop. Scissors, needles and thread plus good fabric are important too. But a good hoop is critical for me to be successful
Merry Christmas everyone ❤️
My definite go-to is my Lowery floor stand. It will hold everything from hoops to stretcher bars to scroll bars without taking up much floor space. It also easily breaks down into small enough pieces that it will fit into an overnight bag for traveling. I’ve never regretted buying it.
Other than scissors and needles, I most often need a hoop— either for quilting or for embroidery! Todays prizes look wonderful!! Thank you for the chance to win!!
A lint box! or whatever you would call the small container you use to collect all your threat ends and clippings:)
I am a beginner. I would say my iron is important. I use it to transfer patterns and before I start a project to get my fabric nice and neat.
A hard question to answer but the most used tool would probably be my pin cushion and my little thread snips! Thank you for the link to this wonderful store! Oh the variety.
My most convenient tool is a size 12 crochet hook. If you have a stray thread on the back of your project, use use this to pull it under other threads.
The tool I use the most besides scissors is my magnetic needle minder. Many of the embroideries or needlepoint I do change colors frequently, and it is so nice to not have to continually thread needles.
My most-reached-for tool is probably my laying tool.
I am just learning to embroider – it is so fun and relaxing!
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
My pincushion – I’m not the best at this craft yet and I keep having to undo my stitches when I’ve counted wrong or have a tricky knot! I have a cute pincushion my 8 year old daughter put together for me so I tend to use that when I’m sewing around her! (She reminds me that she made it FOR ME so I HAVE to use it!)
My most reached for needlework tool whenever I sit down to stitch is always a needle magnet of some type. I like the ones you can sit on a table or one attached to my working piece.
The needlework tool that I always reach for first is my magnifying glasses! I wouldn’t be able to thread my needle without them.
Apart from my needle my most used tool is an old blunt needle… I use it to gently unpick stitches without disturbing the fabric or other stitches. I find it very precise!
My most reached for tool is my floor Ott light. I can use it in any room where I decide to stitch. Have not tried taking it to bed yet, but that’s not saying I won’t.
Margaret Huntington Station, NY momob6@optonline.net
Enjoy all your TV shows, and many tutorials.
My laying tool is one I use all the time when stitching with floss or silk or other stranded fibers.
The tool that I reach for most is my bone and/or wooden laying tool. I would have first said my Stella table lamp but I can’t reach for that when I am not home.
When working on my needlework, I automatically reach for my lighted magnifying glass by Ottlite so I can see the details on my handwork. It’s almost a necessity these days as my eyes get older and older!
Since my eyesight has been on a decline my lighted magnifyer and needlethreader have been essential. Those with a varied assortment of hoop sizes make it easyier to work on designs.
I love my little trolley needle, a permanent finger attachment when doing cross stitch. I also have several wood turned laying tools with tips of different thicknesses a good friend made for me. When embroidering a show piece or special gift, or especially items that are not going to receive a lot of use and washings, I find I am becoming more picky about the way my threads lay, especially the silk threads.
I would say my tweezers or melor. I’m loving gold work again and I’m trying some new ways with metal threads, I love wrapped purl purl.
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool has to be my magnification lamp. Because without it I would not be able to see to stitch. I have several. A Dazor in my family room, a Dublin in my living room and for on the go I take my Daylight Halo. I have had several others but these are my favorites. I use a JAT stand, a couple of types of hoops and millennium frames to stitch with too. My favorite small tool would be one of many needle minders.
I have met Cathe, she is a lovely person.
the must tool for me would be the sit on Hardwicke Manor embroidery hoop and stand.
My most reached for tool is my floor Ott light. I can use it in any room where I decide to stitch. Have not tried taking it to bed yet, but that’s not saying I won’t.
Margaret Huntington Station, NY
Enjoy all your TV shows, and many tutorials.
This is my only entrance into this contest….perhaps I’ve said similar things in other comments. Don’t know where you’ve gotten such incorrect info.
I never start or finish a piece of needlework without my magnifying lamp.
Even with excellent eyesight, it’s a valuable tool.
I don’t have a most reached for embroidery tool! The constants in my embroidery are something to half-watch as I work and now-a-days my glasses for fine work. I do love my boxes of DMC though I’ve started buying some overdyed threads. That’s about it!
I’m not sure these classify as tools but I use two purse size booklets of embroidery stitches all the time.
Hi Mary,
The needlework tool I use the most is my Ott light (or lights). They provide bright, intense light right where I need it. Thanks for the give away.
Hoops for sure!
I don’t know if it technically qualifies as a tool but the thing I reach for most often after needle and scissors (and hoop or frame) would be the needle book I made for myself in 2005 (I dated it so I know that for sure!). Meanwhile, I need one of those pin keeps that says “Don’t touch my chocolate. I have needles!” ’cause I don’t drink coffee. 😉
My most reached for needlework tool, besides the usual, is my laying tool. I use a non-traditional laying tool, a beading awl. It has a cushioned handle and a metal tip. It’s good for more than just using as a laying tool. It can make holes bigger, help get knots out of threads, etc.
Sadly, my most reached for tool is usually the seam ripper. Bleh. I keep practicing, though….
My needle minder
My most reached for items would be pincushion and needle threader.
My trolley needle is the greatest. Keeps my thread smooth & don’t have to pick it up & put it down.
Now THOSE are “goodie bags”!! Thank you to “the Haystack”!!
After needles and scissors, I must vote for the almighty HOOP! (well, there is “magnification and light”, but those are boring!!) I do most all my embroidery with hoops — all sizes and configurations. The inner rings are wrapped (most of them, anyway), and they hang on vintage coat hooks on the wall. Ready and waiting…..
I love the selection of tools and stitching supplies from Needle in a Haystack, and I REALLY like their service. You get prompt and accurate feedback on when your order will be ready to ship. If there’s a problem, they give you an honest answer.
My favorite tool is my needle threaders. I have 5 or 6 different ones and with “older” eyes my needle threaders and a bright light are essential. Love your newsletters.
My go to embroidery tool besides my needles and scissors would have to be a handmade laying tool. It was made with a yarn needle and a polymer clay handle. It fits perfectly in my hand while laying floss or threads. Thank you for the chance to win the goodie bags.
It’s a tied between my work lights and my needle threader as my hands get stiffer from arthritis and my eyes need the extra help to get the stitches in just the right place.
I do a lot of non-embroidery, so wax is one of my favorite tools. But for embroidery, probably a laying tool/little awl/very large tapestry needle that I’ve never actually used for stitching…
My favourite tools are my collection of needle threaders. I have a depth perception problem, so trying to thread a needle has always been an adventure. Needle threaders make it so much easier!
Unfortunately, after my needles and scissors, my most useful (so, I guess, favorite) is the seam ripper. I must admit that I do a lot of reverse sewing because sometimes I just can’t live with boo-boo’s.
My most reached for tool is my Evertite stretcher bars. They may not be reached for the most often, but they are ALWAYS the first thing I reach for when starting a new piece of needlework. I have them in all sizes and am addicted to how tight they hold the fabric. They have spoiled me!
My most reached for needlework tool other than my needle and scissors is Uncle Bill’s tweezers to pick fuzz off my fabric or to catch a thread tail. Thanks for the generous giveaway.
My favorite tool is a small wooden device that is used to tighten the wing nuts on my scroll frame. It’s about 4 inches long with a groove on one side that just fits the wing nuts
My magnifier light. This is a must have for me to be able to see so I can stitch.
The tool that I use the most after scissors is my laying tool. I love the look of laid threads, especially silk.
My favorite tool is an old dritz needle threader
My favorite needlework tool — which I used last night on an a small but troublesome part of a larger embroidery — is a nice, fat and pretty blunt tapestry needle that I use to pick out stitches 🙂 It was especially handy because not only was I eliminating a block of satin stitches (easy), but also trying to carefully pick out two rows of tight stem stitches without disturbing anything other than the offending bits (much more dangerous).
I tried to keep the cursing to a minimum and am happy to see a nicely cleaned up spot ready for another try today!
My needle threader is my most valuable tool because, well, those needles eyes are difficult for me to thread.
Right now, I reach for my magnifer/light. Working on stitching over 1, I especially need it at night when my old eyes feel tired. Second, is my laying too.
My most reached-for tool is my needle threader. I work with several colors at a time, and have several needles threaded to work on my designs. My needle threader is essential to keep all colors handy!
My next most reached for tool is my pincushion. It’s a lovely handmade wool felted dark pink and purple one (purchased from the maker) roughly the same size and shape as the old fashioned red tomatoes. I happened to have some wool felt in coordinating colors, so I made a needle strawberry and attached it. The only problem was that I thought it would be cute to put beads on the strawberry to resemble seeds, so you have to be careful where you put the needle!
I love your blog and especially your videos. My favorite tool is the hoop. i know some people stitch in hand but i just love using a hoop. I need to use a magnifying light and the hoop helps enormously. Someday i hope to get a sit on english style frame.
My trusted magnifying glasses for sure. I would be lost without them with all the small details of embroidery.
My favorite needlework tool os my iron-on transfer pen! It has a fine point nib and I just love it!
My most used needlework tool besides needle and scissors are my half-moon reading glasses (aka “Mrs. Claus” glasses according to my husband). They allow me to see my needlework and also look over the glasses to view the TV. Technically those aren’t “needlework” tools so if I had to specify something else I’d say my needle minder – it keeps me from losing my needles!
My Light is my favorite! It is very bright and shines right over my right shoulder. Good lighting is essential when stitching!!!!
My most-used needlework tool would have to be my portable Ott light. Even when I’m stitching during the day, the light helps so much.
my most used needlework tool is my teko bari. I love the way it sits in my hand, the smoothness when stroking /laying the fibers is perfect. I have three teko bari’s but the long one, that I have had since about 2000 is my fvourite. I use it whenever threads need to be laid precisely.
My most reached for tool is my needle threader. Every time I use it I think of my granddaughter because I made her one to match.
My favorite stitching tool is my bunny, magnetic needle minder. I used to stick needles in the arm of my chair until my husband ended up with one in his hand. Oops!
My favorite tool is a stitch (a.k.a. seam) ripper. Its great when you have large areas to pick out. Mine also has a rubber tip which you rub gently over the fabric and it removes the little fuzzies left behind.
My most reached for tool is my overhead, floor-stand light. I’m constantly adjusting so I can see better. Second to that are my small round magnets that I stick on everything to hold my needles, scissors, etc. Thanks! Liz.
After needle and scissors, I go for my 5″ hoop. This hoop is old ( about 40 yrs) and blue plastic. It does not have the lip, which is why I prefer it. The biggest reason why I use this more than anything, including Qsnaps and scroll rods, is because it fits my hand. I can hold it in my hand and reach the back with my fingers to feel the needle and thread. I also use a trolley needle on my left thumb with which to lay threads. There is a lot going on with my left hand! I also have a small square of plastic with slots in it for the pattern which fits over the screw on the hoop. It also is old and only fits this screw on this hoop. The screws on newer hoops are too thick on which to fit the pattern holder. My old 5″ hoop does it all for me!
My most used tool is any one of my laying tools. I have 4. 2 I use for embroidery, 1 for wool crewel work, and the last I acquired to use with needlepoint. They are such handy things!
The tool I cannot stitch without is my chatelaine. I actually feel naked without it’s comforting weight! It holds all of my essentials — thimble (another “can’t live without”), extra needles, scissors, tweezers, and a few other little things that fit in the pocket. Mine was made by my mother and I’ve used it for over 20 years. Sadly, it is now falling apart, and needs to be replaced.
I reach for a ruler a lot in my needlework- I always check the fabric count of the linen before starting to make sure it is adequate for the piece in mind…making sure I’ll have a suitable border for how the piece will be finished. Whether to be framed. Or sewn into a pillow or making an ornament.
Tedra Raden, Phoenix. AZ
My magnifying glass and my glasses. Love your website and video tutorials Mary. I’ve learnt so much from you. Thanks
My most reached for tool is my burling irons! I have 3 cats at home, and I am forever finding cat hair! The other tool that I use all the time is the new Pattern Keeper app for my full coverage cross stitch projects. Can’t imagine stitching without either one!
My favorite sewing tool is a clamp that I used to pull the needle out when it’s stuck! Thanks for the giveaways!
What a lovely assortment of gifts you have for today’s drawing. I consider my LED magnifying light as my favorite tool, but if that doesn’t count, then it is my snag nab-it.
What an interesting question I’m looking forward to reading the responses! For me, I’d have to say “bag of threads”. I rarely use patterns, and even when I do, I like to play around with my threads and make final selections as I go. Switch a colour here, add a different texture there…always a choice to be made!
Cheers and luck to everyone
My favorite needlework tools are my tiny blue “ort” bowl and my magnetic needle keeper.
Pick me!
My Grandmother’s Bakelite laying tool.
I have only recently learned about the value of a laying tool so would consider that as my most reached for tool.
My favorite needlework tool is my fiber hider for tucking in short ends.
I regularly reach for both my readers glasses as well as a tiny crochet hook. I use it for a laying tool as well as adjusting some stitches that I wish to finagle into just the right spot and tension.
Thank you for the chance to win!
My favorite notion is my Ott light because of the obvious reason, which is I can’t see good without it.
If I had to choose another I’d say silicone finger tip guards.
I have a little organizer pouch a friend made me that holds all my necessities! It’s always ready to go!
I cannot stitch without my clip on magnifying glasses so I would have to say that would be my most reached for tool.
My favorite and most used needlework tool is definitely my Dublin CraftLite (from Needle in a Haystack, incidentally!) . The extra light it provides helps me do my best quality stitching, and as time goes by and my eyes age, I find myself using the magnifying lens more and more. I especially appreciate its flexible goose neck, allowing me to put the light at just the right angle.
I’d have to say that my most-reached-for tool is definitely my needle threader! It’s one of those little plastic ones made to look like a hummingbird, and not only is it adorable, it’s teeny-tiny hook makes getting the thread through the eye of the needle (always the bane of my existence) so much easier.
This particular giveaway looks absolutely delightful — I’ve got my fingers crossed!
As, do most of us, I have many tools to help with my passion. If I had to pick one other than scissors, it would be my BLT (Best Laying Tool). In the past, I have used large, blunt point needles, but I love the BLT because it fits well in my hand and is easy to get threads to behave and lay smoothly on the fabric.
Oh my goodness I’m just salivating over these gorgeous goodies! And I’m always in need of more needles and good hoops. What a treat! My favorite secondary needlework tool is my little thread-cutter pendant. So handy for toting around projects where poky sharp scissors would be awkward.
My magnifier light. I couldn’t do without it.
Also want to add my two cents about Needle In A Haystack. They have helped me choose an alternative thread or fabric on numerous occasions and are always ever so helpful. Many thanks.
My most reached for tool is the Best Laying Tool. Just as critical, though not exactly a tool, are my CraftOptic glasses. Thank you for that recommendation Mary.
I shop at NIAH regularly, they have a great selection of linen. I hope they can stay in business another 21 years!
–a magnet, because at age 84 I drop everything!
Picking my favorite tool depends on what type of stitching I’m doing. However I find my self reaching for my Puffin Compnay Micro Threader very often. I love how it helps me out so many times.
My laying tool. It’s such a small thing but it makes such a big difference!!
My favorite needlework tool has to be my laying tool. I have a lovely wood one from Stitch in Turn that is a pleasure to use.
my go to “tool”. is my Stella light…. My eyes need all the help they can get:). I could not do w/o good light!
Gwen Ziegler
My favorite tool is my leather thimble- although I only use it when hand quilting and not usually when embroidering!
My most reached for needlework tool besides scissors and needle, is my hoop. I love to have a piece of linen held taught in my hoop.
My favorite tool is my chart holder that stands up so I can glance over and see the chart without having move or pick it up.
I love Needle in a Haystack, such an amazing on-line store. I am swooning over those needle packs! My most reached for tool aside from scissors or needles, is definitely my needle threader! Makes my stitching time so much easier!
I use my ink transfer pens of all colors. The sky is the limit for free handing patterns or little drawings my family does.
I am a relative newcomer to embroidery but love these features you have on great shops online. You guides are so precise and your opinions are great. I never know where to find those wonderful little items that help make embroidery easier and fun. Today’s reference to the “Stack” is just one of those gems!I went to her shop and browsed!!!!
My laying tool, for sure!
My most reaches for tool is definitely my needleminder. It’s fantastic not just for keeping needles at the ready, but I also use it to hold my needle threader, which saves me MUCH frustration. I hated having to look around for it, and for spending any extra stitching time with persnickety rebellious threads that didn’t wish to fall in line.
Hi Mary
Without a doubt, my favourite, most reached for embroidery tool is my pin cushion. Or should I say, cushions? I have four now. Three I made and one that another person made, we had a pin cushion exchange. I just love the look and feel of them, brightly patterned with various needles with colourful bits of thread and multi coloured pins poking out at all angles.
Thank you again for arranging these remarkably generous and superior quality giveaways. You are a classy gal, through and through.
Best
Jess in St. Marys Canada
Good lighting is my favorite tool. Without it I can’t do a thing.
A fun pincushion from my collection.
My favorite and most reached for tool used in embroidery is a laying tool because it helps me get the threads to smooth down just right.
I used my magnetic needle minders all the time. Don’t want to lose needles in the carpet or in the couch . . . Ouch!!
What an amazing prize!
My most reached for needlework tool is my wooden hoop which has a solid tightening screw with notch in the screw head to make tightening the hoop easy and effective.
I must add that Needle in a Haystack is my go to online resource Their needle workers gift Mary’s Needlenthread.com readers is an eye popping generous stash of goodies.
My most reached for needlework tool, it’s your site. It is an indispensable tool for me. Whether searching for ideas, refreshing long lost information and skills or learning new skills, techniques and acquiring new knowledge, it’s your site. And yes, sometimes I just need to read and dream. So thank you.
I reach most often for my needle threader. I just can’t seem to learn to do it without one.
One of my most reached for tools is a clamp to hold my hoop with the embroidery in it to my table. That way I have both hands free for stitching. Ana-Maria K
Mary, my most favorite tool is my pin cushion…full of pins and needles!
My favorite most reached for tool, is my needle threader. It’s the quickest way for me to thread my needle.
My favorite needlework tool is my magnifying lamp! I couldn’t work without it!
I can’t stitch without a needle-keeping magnet on my fabric, held by a magnet on the back! And because I still somehow manage to drop needles, I always have my extending wand magnet with a light on the end to help find & retrieve the ones that get away!
A good light with daylight wavelengths is so important to me. I can’t imagine picking up needle and thread without one.
I love this website. Thank you for helping me indulge my stitching habit!
My most relied on tool is my natural daylight lamp, especially with the shorter days.
My most reached for needlework tool is my double hook needle threader. One end is a larger hook than the other, so will work with many size needles.
It’s a toss-up between my clip-on magnifier glasses and tweezers. If I didn’t use the magnifiers I probably wouldn’t see all the bits of fluff and dog hair that I need the tweezers for, but I couldn’t see where to put the stitches, either! 🙂
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
After needle and thread, my go to tool has to be my DMC color card. I love picking my own colors and that card is a great resource.
Thanks Mary, for another fun Stitcher’s Christmas series of giveaways! And to the sponsors/donors that make it possible!
I am a ‘gadget gal’ when it comes to stitching. I use lots of tools and goodies to make stitching easier. I have to say that after my scissors and needles I MUST have good light! With or without magnification, depends on what I’m working on and where I am, but I supplement the room light with a color-corrected lamp or lamp and magnifier combo. I have several and love them all, I just use them for different things and in different places in my studio, home and/or when traveling.
Hi!! My very favorite and very needed “tool” are my machinger gloves. I do not know if they fall in the tool category but I need them to grasp my needle and pull my needle through some challenging times. If purchased to be snug – they are not intrusive to my movements. Thank you for the chance. This gift really makes my heart sing!!
I agree with Mary that the consumer service is very good at Needle in a Haystack. I appreciate that and their online inventory which is a huge help.
My go to tool is probably my magnifying glass. It’s just part of what I need to do the job.
I am fairly new to embroidery, so I do not have any other go-to tools, other than my needles and scissors. I find your posts both instructional and inspirational, and I Thank You!!
My favorite needlework tool is some type of magnifying tool — be it a floor standing or headset magnifying glass. I seem to be looking for it more often than not… maybe it’s an aging thing 🙂
What a wonderful prize! I love the service I get from “The Stack”. My most reached for tool is either my needle threader or my needle nabber. I sometimes have trouble grasping my needle when I am securing my thread tails on the back.
Thank you for all you do for us, Mary.
My favourite go-to item that I absolutely could not do without when I am creating Brazilian Embroidery items is my wooden laying tool.
It makes creating bullions so much easier
This collection of goodies looks fabulous. I’d particularly love the chance to try the Tailor’s Chalk linen – it’s not something I’ve come across before. My favourite go-to tools are my needle nannies. I have a handful, and they’re to be found on the hoops and frames of whatever is live. My other, new favourite is a lovely velvet lined beading tray from Jenny Adin-Christie. It’s perfect for cutting gold wire threads, but it also holds sequins and beads beautifully. ANd because it has a magnet underneath, it holds my needles in place when I’m doing tiny projects that don’t have room for a needle nanny.
My magnifying glasses! Can’t do anything close up without them.
Thank you for this opportunity.
My most reached for tool has to be the NeedlenThread website! The how to videos are a life saver. Followed by my light. 🙂
Since I haven’t stitched in many years this is a tough question, but Needle and Thread is a great inspiration for ideas and things I want to try. This gift selection would make a great addition to my supply cabinet that I am working to fill.
Lorri in Renton
This shop might actually influence my decision whether or not to visit Alameda for the first time during the next year!
Thank you again Mary! What a beautiful set of goodies! I have two tools that I find are indispensable: my lay tool and my rubber needle puller! My lay tool helps me make ideal French knots and my rubber needle puller makes pulling that tiny needle through the fabric oh so much easier!
Would love love love to win this!!!
I think my go to embroidery tool is my leather thimble. I find that I really like using it. I don’t care for the metal ones. Thank you for this great opportunity. And a Merry Christmas to you, Mary.
My thimble is just as essential to stitching as needles and scissors.
I keep each project in a separate pouch (learned that tip from you, Mary), so the mesh pouches are a must. My husband made me scroll frames in 4 sizes in oak about 15 years ago, and they are in use for various projects all the time. The fact that my husband contributed this element to aid my hobby adds to their value to me.
My other favorite tool is my magnifying light – my vision is such that if I am not in good sunlight, I need assistance to clearly see my stitching.
Without a doubt it’s my Morgan hoop. I like this hoop best out of all the hoops I have because it’s two hoops in one, both different sizes, I can use it on my lap without holding it which leaves both hands free to sew, and it folds down to almost nothing which makes it great for traveling.
I have to be honest – I always include my ripper. Unfortunately there are many times I need to go back and remove some errant stitches!
Probably the hoop. I have never been able to get a smooth finish without one.
My favorite needlework & most reached for tool besides scissors & needles would have to be my magnifying light. I could not work on any project without it (and trust me I have tried).
After my needles and scissors, my most used notion is my MagEyes. It’s hard to stitch when you can’t see what you’re doing 😉
My “go to” needlework tool is my organizer, better know as a cosmetic case. Holds everything needed for my project. And it’s grab and go!
My go to tool in needlework has to be my head torch! I live in a very old house – about 300 years old – and it has very little light plus the big walnut tree outside adds shadow. My head torch means I can sew whatever the light and even thread needles! I also find it useful for colour selection as it has a clean light. I couldn’t live without it!
My favorite tool is a challenge to come up with, though lately I’m obsessed with the proper needle. If it doesn’t slide through easily or if it doesn’t thread easily, it’s headed for the trash. My favorite needle of late is a ball point needle that seems perfect when counting linen for counted cross stitch.
My favorite tool is my portable light. As I get older and my vision deteriorates, I couldn’t enjoy doing embroidery without it. Dr Dianna
If using the term loosely (ie not necessarily hand held), I have to say my stands. Without them I’d be much slower since I couldn’t stitch two-handed.
If it must be handheld than I would say my laying tool.
My most used and favorite tool is my old school adjustable 6” ruler. It has a sliding knob on the inside of the ruler and I can measure down to 1/8”. Because of the exact nature of some of my hand projects, it’s right next to my scissors, floss and needles. I use it constantly and would struggle without it.
your project light that clips on to the frame. Small enough to carry with you and is bright.
Oh my…NIaH..one of my favorite shopping sites online!!My always- used needlework tool are the little clip-on magnifiers for my glasses…can’t do it without them these days!
The tool I reach for first are my reading glasses.Then comes my silver thimble. Thank you.
After sitting in my favorite chair for stitching, I reach for my hoop and fabric I am going to stitch with. Having the pattern in hand, I turn on the light (my eyes are not as good as they once were) put my feet up and start stitching. Needles, thread and scissors are all necessary, but the fabric and hoop are important also.
Unless I’m doing something like goldwork I don’t usually use a lot of tools. But ever since I turned 40 I’ve been reaching for a lamp more and more often. As soon as it starts to get close to sunset (or if a cloud happens to pass in front of the sun!) I’m reaching for the switch on my stitching lamp!
I love my Hardwicke Manor hoop and my ItsMikesTurn ORT bowl.
My favorite needle work tool is mu needle threader. I am older, age 76, and some of my senses are weak, including my eyes, So while I wait to ‘courage up’ for cataract surgery, I use it so I can keep stitching in my retirement. I can now thread all my needles because of it!
Stitch diagrams -have a great book from Emily Bishop (Cross N Patch) plus Thea Duck at Victoria Sampler has great diagrams for specialty stitches.
My most reached-for tool would have to be a chopstick ! I use this for turning out corners, taping a pin to the end (to heat over a candle to melt organza) and for many other odd jobs !
I don’t know if you would call a book a tool, but in the last couple of years I have discovered a whole
wealth of new stitches….not the basics that Grandma taught us. I have collected a few books that have
a wide variety of stitches and I keep them close to my chair and try to use a new one on every project I
work on. You have had a hand in this learning experience also, one of the reasons I check your site quite often.
I can’t say scissors? Dang.
Extra magnification. My eyes are going anyway, and my optometrist has me on this wonky “one contact stronger than the other” that’s supposed to make my distance vision more flexible but really messes with close-up stuff.
My favorite tool is an antique gold thimble whose origin is unknown, but I like to imagine generations of women before me using it in a variety of needlework projects.
Good morning, my go to tool is my tweezers. I am doing Stump work leaves & flowers to go on a very small birdcage & shaping as I stitch. SO much fun. My second would have to be wooden egg I’ve brought in the last month. My hands get a wee bit sweaty when its warm so I roll it in my hands & it works wonderfully. Thank you for the chance. Kind regards, Leigh Day, New Zealand ( I can pay the postage :-))
I love to see and support independent brick and mortar stores. It’s a plus that Needle in a Haystack has a nice website, as well.
Aloha, embroidery friends! 🙂
Although I find myself often wishing that my laying tool wasn’t in my other embroidery kit *all the way* on the other side of the house, the tool i rely on most are my assortment of tiny tins and magnets to keep my pre-threaded needles organized and untangled between stitching sessions. It is so lovely to be able to open one of my tins and start stitching with the right color right away!
First my friends because stitching is so much more fun.. Then my magnifying light because my eyes are as old as me. And then my wooden laying tool because it’s so much fun to fiddle with if need a break from stitching.
My favorite tool to reach for is my magnifying light. As I get older my eyes have naturally aged with me
And the magnifier has brought joy back into stitching again.
My go-to accessory is my laying tool. It takes a little more time, but makes my stitches look oh so much better!!
My eyes are getting older faster than the rest of my body, so I’d have to say I reach for the needle threader!
A very important item when stitching is my stella lamp. Without it I have a hard time stitching.
My favorite tool is my snag grabber. If a stitch isn’t laying “just right”, I “snag it” & it is perfect!
Lately, my most-reached-for needlework tool has been a needle threader. My next purchase will have to be some sort of magnifier!
The thing I always grab is my needlework systems 4 floor stand. It holds my piece in its hoop so my hands are free. Also keeps things near and clean and out of the way,you can turn it over without taking it out of the stand, hold the hoop right and works well for cross stitch and embroidery.Makes sitting in any chair comfortable.
After my needle and scissors I always reach for my magnet board to hold my place on my pattern. I have them in 2 sizes and of course I have to have more than one to accommodate multiple projects! I don’t know what I’d do without one.
My laying tool is invaluable and always close to me.
Oh this is easy. My sturdy needle threaders. I have three different sizes to accommodate the various needles I use. Why? I have an essential tremor and slow onset macular degeneration. They’ve slowed me down but I’ll be darned if I’ll let them take me away from a lifelong love of stitching!
Cheers!
Definitely the ripper. And this prize looks amazing because I have not known or ever used these products in this giveaway and would sure like to try them.
My needle book is in constant use.
My table top Ott lamp!
I would love to win this as I don’t have a hoop! And the thread & needles look great Thanks for doing the contest !
My favorite needlework tool is my Ottlight. I’m 77 and need all the light I can get. My second favorite is my glasses –for the same reason!
My most reached for tool these days is my magnifier that hangs around my neck. 🙂 I hate my bifocals.
My most-used, although not favorite, is my seam ripper. It is hard for me to visualize things, so I just have to try different options until I find the right one. My new favorite will probably be that purple teacup pinkeep. 😉
My favorite needlework tool is actually a piece of furniture. I have a chair made precisely to my measurements by my late father who was a superb upholsterer. The seat allows my feet to hit the floor while my back is supported firmly upright – which is next to impossible on any other chair if you’re 4’11” tall. This means I can stitch comfortably for hours.
Besides my needles and scissors the things I absolutely can’t embroider without are my pincushion(s), reading glasses and light. I can’t say any of these are favorites, but they are surely necessary. And since glasses and lights are difficult to make “pretty” my pincushion has to be especially beautiful.
My most reached for tool is my needle threader!
I use my “puffin” which is a device to untangle my floss as I strip the threads.
My favorite needlework tool is a wooden hoop. I have small ones for handwork and larger ones for free-motion quilting on my sewing machine. I’ve also used small ones as frames for finished pieces. I appreciate how wooden hoops feel in your hands and make it a pleasure to do needlework anytime, any place.
My most commonly reached for tool is either my Thread Zapper or travel hair straightener. I use the Thread Zapper instead of scissors for any thread that frays – not so much with embroidery but often with Rainbow Gallery threads for needlepoint. I don’t leave home without my travel hair straightener because it is so quick and easy to “iron” any thread straight. I find it is much easier to sew without kinks in the threads especially the EdMar threads.
Merry Christmas
My blunt seam ripper for undoing stitches when I make a mistake.
My most reached for stitching tool is my Mag-eyes because I can’t see to stitch without them! I’ve used them for at least 20 years now & love them. They might look funny to others, but who cares as long as one can stitch!
I would love to win the assortment from Needle in a Haystack. I order frequently from Cathe & agree that they are a wonderful shop. Thanks for the opportunity!
My go to tool besides needle and scissors have been my reading glasses. In the last year my eyes have gotten so bad. I’ve had glasses since I was a little girl but only needed them to see distance. I loved being able to take my glasses off to read, sew, and stitch. But, not any longer, I need them or I just can’t see to stitch anything. I wouldn’t normally think of this as a tool, but it is necessary. The other thing I just started using which is really helpful in keeping me organized is a lunch tray from dollar tree. It keeps my needles in one area, my scissors, small ruler, and pens in another area and any threads or beads in another. A friend showed it to me and I went right away to get one. And the best part is it was only a dollar.
My most important piece of stitching is a beautiful piece of fabric to embroider on. I like something that is easy to transfer a clear pattern onto. Whether I am transferring by light box or by an iron on transfer, I like something that is smooth and with and even weave. I like fabric that will allow me to see crisp lines in the fabric because my eyes are 60 something years old. I have never tried the tailor’s chalk linen which I have put on my list for my next purchase.
My tweezers and my laying tool are my favorite embroidery tools. (other than my scissors of course!)
My fave item is my excellent magnifier light. With my eyes getting older, and stitching a lot in the evenings, I can’t be without this LED light. It’s an easy to use floor standing lamp that is able to be reconstituted as a desk lamp, so either way I’m good to see what I am doing!
My most reached for tool is my Ott light so I can see what I am doing.
I never pick up a piece of stitching without using my Needlework System 4 I have a table system and use it on my lap or the table – the best investment I have ever made!!
(I am also looking at the Craft Optics system but with the exchange rate as it is currently I think I will have to wait for that)
Love the blog – it is interesting and really useful for various reasons
The most important tool for me to use while embroidering has to be the hoop itself. I like a nice rounded-edged hoop not too large.
Thank you,
Cirese
Favorites are sometimes hard to decide, but as I’ve aged I’ve come to rely more and more on the magnifying lens that is attached to my lamp. So for today, that’s my favorite tool. Ask me tomorrow and you may get a different answer.
Hmm, I would have to say stretcher bars, since I do mainly needlepoint. Laying tools and magnets are close seconds.
My essential is my Daylight magnifying floor lamp. There would be no stitching without it.
The tool I reach for the most is tweezers. I use them for getting knots, dog hairs or Thread pieces off my embroidery.
It’s so simple but the light I bought myself last year, one recommended by you! It’s made all the difference in my embroidery!
My two needle threaders are near to my heart. One is standard size, and the other is for extra’fine work. They make it possible for me to keep stitching even with essential tremor.
I use my frogger the most. Sad to say, I change my mind often and then expect perfection. Rippit. Rippit.
Tool I use the most? Easy. I use my frogger the most. Sad to say, I change my mind often and then expect perfection. Rippit. Rippit.
The needlework tool I use the most is my thimble because i can’t sew without it. I worked a five year tailoring apprenticeship that began 63 years ago and have sewn and therefore used my thimble almost every day since. It’s part of my identity and I couldn’t be without it.
I am a faithful customer of Needle in a Haystack. In fact, the last time in the Bay Area, we made a special trip to go see the shop. I especially like all the unusual types of thread
I first met Cathe when she came up here to offer goods for sale at a stitch-in here at Ft. Worden, put on by I can’t remember who, but a great time was had by all! I purchased a nail file on a glass holder. I used it until I completely wore it out!
I use a wooden floss sorter which holds all the colors for each project.
My favorite tool is a needleminder – being able to drop my needle onto a magnet and not worry about where it is at any moment is a luxury! I always make sure I have a magnet on each piece to park my needle as I’m working away!!!
Hi Mary! Thank you for your Christmas goody giveaways!! I think after my needles and scissors, my most reached for tool would be my tweezers!
My needle case, first thing I stitched when joining guild many years ago. Stitched using Deerfield’s techniques. Love it.
My most reached for item when working on my embroidery is my magnifying light. I find it gives me smaller stitches and I am always pleased with my work when I use it. The magnifying light is part of my arm!
My favorite sewing tool is my Magnifying Stand Lamp, it isn’t fancy but very practical . I sew Cross Stitch on 32count Linen, using the lamp enables me to see my work in better detail. It has served me loyally for approximately 20yrs, even with the taped together power lead which one of our dogs chewed on when they were a puppy. My husband often borrows it when working on fishing reels. I’d be lost without it.
The tool I reach for most are my mechanical chalk pencils. I have several in different colors.
My most-reached-for tool is my Needle Easel, a device for holding my needlework (mounted on stretcher bars or a scroll frame) so I have both hands free to manipulate my needle and thread.
Because I’m still a beginner w/fancy embroidery stitches, the thing I cannot stitch without is my iPad Mini. I can remember stitch names, but not how to work them/get started – I need video tutorials or picture directions to help.
My favourite tool is my laying tool. This lovely tool is from Jenny Adin Christie’s workshop and not only looks good and feels good to hold but is easy to use. I love it!
Over the past few years, my favorite tool has become my needle threader. I wish I could find a sturdy holster to put it into for easier handling, about the size of a guitar pick. Any suggestions?
I suppose my most reached for tool is my wire threader which both eases eye strain and just soothes my impatience to get the thread in the needle so I can start stitching! I do have a couple of more charming threaders, which I use if they are compatible with the thread and needle, but for me the wire ones are the workhorses of threaders and I keep a ready supply. That said, I certainly have more beloved and beautiful tools, but threaders probably win the most-reached-for contest.
Thanks so much to Cathe and to you, Mary for this enticing collection!
Linda
My most reached for needlework tool used to be my seam ripper, but is now my pencil. I find that if I draw the stitches the way I want them I make fewer mistakes and the stitches look better together.
My favorite needlework tool is the heat erasable pen! So I can transfer my patterns and designs precisely without worrying about the marks being visible in the final work.
My favorite tool is my magnifying lamp…..couldn’t do without it.
After my scissors and needles, the tool I reach for most often is my Elbesee Embroidery Lap Stand.
I love the hands free approach!
I saw Cathe’s needle and pin keeps at the Attic last month. They are Fab! My fav tool is a Bohin needle. I am addicted.
I couldn’t stitch at night without my Dublin magnifier light. I have excellent natural light during the day but at night I’d be lost without a magnifying light.
My laying tool (or tools), I use them all the time to lay my threads.
Would love to have this wonderful set of gifts am a newbie just gettin back into embroidery!
My most reached for needlework tool after a needle and pair of scissors is — my Ottlite. The light is very helpful for aging eyes and for color matching. I bought the lamp at Mary’s suggestion and it has been worth every penny!
I really like using silk Perle. I like the sheen and how it glides through my wool projects.
Since I don’t use a lot of tools other than needles and scissors I guess my answer would be a needle threader and sometimes magnification and good lighting.
My favourite tool, besides my needle & scissors are two things that do the same thing- Thread Heaven & beeswax. I find these items indispensable when stitching to condition the thread & ease stitching. I could not do embroidery so well without them.
My go to tool is called a Dololly ( or something like that!) It is great for ending those short threads or re-tucking those threads that have come loose.
I always enjoy getting your newsletter ! They are always full of wonderful tips, good general information, and encouragement in ample supply ! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and love of embroidery !
Susan
My magnifier. To do the tiny stitches and make them neat, my magnifier makes job much easier.
One of my favourite and most loved tools would have to be my tape measure. I usually use it when transferring design and measuring up for projects. I keep one in my handbag so if I am shopping for fabric, threads, ribbons, braids or embellishments I can quickly check sizes.
My favorite tool is a magnifying glass sometimes I can’t see the chart or the stitches!!!
My favourite needlework tool after needles and scissors are my embroidery hoops and frames. I am looking forward to using a Hardwicke Manor hoop as I have read some great reviews. Only yesterday I found the Needle in a Haustack online site and ordered a hoop (along with a few more tools I couldn’t resist). A great site so easy to use
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why? – Right now, it is a toss up between my BLT and my curling iron. both help me to lay my threads smoothly so they look good.
My most favorite, cannot stitch without tool is my leather thimble. My fingers do not seem to work right if I do not have my thimble on my finger!
This might seem silly, but it’s a small case by Yazzi where I can carry the tools and many of the threads for my on the go project. I stitch away from home a fair amount of the time. Whether I am stitching an ornament, crazy quilting or attaching the binding for a quilt, this little organizational case carries what I need.
My beautiful aficot from Jenny Adin-Christie. The shape is based on a lobster claw, it’s made of beautiful smooth wood, and it fits my hand perfectly. I use it for laying threads and polishing my finished satin stitch.
My needle threader
The tool I have to use most often is a magnifier with a light. Because I want delicate things to be as accurate as possible.
Alas, my favorite tool is my small seam ripper…..
A wonderful of goodies for any stitcher.
I have a Hardwick Manor hoop and I love it! I use it all the time. Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
Thank you for the give away. I love all needle work. It keeps me busy during these long cold winters in New York.
Right now, for my current project, my Frixon pen is my favorite tool. I’m using it, with Kathy Seaman Shaw’s templates, to mark my crazy quilt stitches.
I think my most used tool would be a (borrowed!) pincushion. It’s a little red rectangle, when in use I poke my needles in “upright”, and when I stick my embroidery supplies in a bag to work outside of the house, I tuck them in “sideways” so only the eye is peeking out of the fabric.
My best tool right now is a chart of embroidery stitches that I use as a guide while I am still learning embroidery stitches and styles.
Laurie C – Spotsylvania, VA
Needle threader. It saves time and frustration as well as keeping the thread smooth.
It is hard to chose my favorite tool. It is a toss up between my beam and read light that shines directly on my fabric, a good smaller hoop to hold my work tightly, or my frixon pens for marking my patterns.
I love my snippets which hang around my neck on a braided cord for convenient cutting of threads.
My click-on magnifiers, can’t stitch without them
My most reached for go-to tool is a bit of a reach, definition wise. It’s my Favorites page of Needlework sites that offer online tutorials, hints, helpful suggestions, and supplies. I’d be lost without them! I’ve learned so much and figured out a ton of fixes for some “impossible” mistakes. They are my inspiration pages and my how-to’s. I can’t even tell you how many endless hours I’ve spent online in the middle of the night when the dreaded insomnia hits. And that’s usually when I find something totally unexpected that seems so perfect for a project I’m working on, or one I can’t wait to start. I’m totally addicted!
My most reached-for (because it’s vital) needlework tool is my magnifying light – without it, there wouldn’t be much progress made!
Books illustrating embroidery stitches
It’s a tie! As my eyes age, I use my magnifier more. (I have one on a swing arm attached to my light, which I use for some work, but I also have a little hand lens that I grab occasionally.) BUT I probably use my telescoping magnet as often, for I’m forever losing a needle into the depths of my chair or the carpeting, and I daren’t leave one where one of my furry friends might step on it. Thanks again, Mary and “the Stack.”
What wonderful items I pine for the lovely hoop
My most reached for needlework tool is my needle puller. Really provides an assist when I find my needle in a ‘tight situation’.
A magnifying glass – aging is not nice on the eyes!
Carrie G. Plane Nut
My needle minder! I like to use a magnetic one with a pin cushion on top so I can be sure I will not knock off my needles accidentally.
My seam ripper unfortunately- I will unpick and re-embroider until it is perfect
My most reached for piece of equipment when I embroider is my LED magnified floor lamp. My eyes spasm when I try close-up work. when I magnify my work my eyes aren’t stressed and do not spasm.
My hoop! Can’t stitch without it.
My favorite needlework tool that I use almost all of the time is my light/magnifier combo. I keep it next to my stitching chair and I don’t think I would get much done without it.
Greetings all, my go to tool is a thimble. Mostly I use the metal with the lip around the top, but sometimes they slip off so I use the Clover silicon one. It had s metal tip which catches the needle like the metal ones. Thank you Mary, hope all have a great holiday
My most reached tool is without a doubt my thimble. If I do not have it on my finger I will end up with a boo-boo and a stain on my project. (this has happened more than once!)
Have a lovely day Mary
Thank you
yvonne
My favourite needlework tool is a thread mover, affectionately known as a third finger. It is a tapestry needle set into a turned wooden base and I use it to move threads out of the way so I can insert my needle into the correct place more easily.
As I am a goldworker, often working in fine detail, I find this tool invaluable.
Sharyn AUS
I love going to NIHS in Alameda. My friend and I try to journey there once a year.
My favorite needlework tool is scissors. I love a good pair of scissors especially ones appropriate for the job…like Hardanger, embroidery, or applique scissors.
My favorite tool is a stiletto that I use to rearrange the occasional twisted floss.
My most important go to tool is my Ott Light. I know Mary has another light she likes, but mine was a gift I can’t live without. I have it by my favorite chair and it has meant that I can stitch late into the night.
Well, I am going to say my iron…. It isn’t a “needlework” tool per se – but it is a tool that I use frequently when I do any kind of needlework. I rely constantly on my iron whether I am hand piecing, quilting, or embroidery. I literally could not work without my iron.
Hello Mary, my most reached for tool is probably my pins and pin cushion gifted to me by my best friend. I just love it, it was a special gift. I just love this gift, I’ve never tried bohin needles and have a very small stash of fabric and linen as we live on a limited budget and therefore I have to have a reason for every purchase. Thank you for the opportunity. Regards Mandy xx
I get a lot of use out of a needlebox (hey, you said not scissors or needles, but this is different!) that I made out of an Altoids box. We had a class in my chapter of the EGA on a lovely little embroidery designed by Anne Marie Hoffmann. We had the option of mounting it on an Altoids box. While I love boxes, I really didn’t want just another piece laying around, so I decided to make it useful. I mounted a piece of magnetic vinyl (the kind people put their business cards on) on the inside lid, and constructed a fold-out multi-page felt needlebook for the inside of the box. The box holds a needle threader and as I am stitching, I can park my needles on the magnet. I have it handy for every project!
My most important accessory is my combo led light and magnifier, because I could no longer do needlework without it. I’ve been stitching for seventy years and loving every minute of it!
I need good light to stitch, so I wear a flexible light around my neck. It’s very handy!
If I CAN’T mention my scissors (or their little cousin, the seam ripper) my favorite tool is probably my metal board and strip magnet. It helps me keep my place when I am stitching, especially with cross stitch and blackwork. Otherwise, I’d be distracted by squirrels too much and lose my place!
My most reached for tool (after scissors & needles) is my phone, so I can take a picture to document what I’m doing.
My favorite took is probably also my least expensive. It shouldn’t be the most reached for, but probably is. It is the Star De-Tailor. The little loop of wire you use when you haven’t left yourself enough thread to fasten.
I think it would be a draw for my favourite needlework tool after my scissors between my light magnifier and some type of hoop or frame. I don’t stitch in hand, and will use a spring hoop even for ornaments. However I’m very fond of my light too if I had to choose I’m not sure Thanks for this opportunity despite being far away I consider the Haystack one of my LNS!
My light box is the start of just about everything I make. I rarely but kits. I like to embroider wildflowers based on botanical drawings. And I also fashion my own kaleidoscope designs using yours as a jumping off point (I’ve done most of the designs in your ebook and loved doing them).
A seam ripper. I still make mistakes and since I don’t like the way they look, I take them out and redo.
I reach toward my little snippet keeper a LOT!
My most favorite tool is my magnifier/light. Why? you ask……………because I’m getting older and I can’t see!!! ha ha. It let’s me see those fine details in my work. I love it and a great investment.
just right for my xmas
My most-reached-for needlework tool is my magnifying glass with a light that clips on to my table. It is handy to see better and does not need hands to hold it. Look Ma! No hands!
My ripper is my best friend (besides scissors & needles) because often I do a set of stitches and decide I am not happy with them.
I really love my magnifier light!! Thank you and I love your blogs and site!
Not sure if it qualifies as an actual needlework tool, but an essential bit of stitching kit for me is my daylight magnifier. It sits by my chair in the lounge, ready to be pulled across when I start stitching. I also have a couple of small portable magnifiers for stitching away from home. Although sometimes I can work without magnification (e.g. cross stitch on Aida fabric) it makes life so much easier for anything else. Love the thought of possibly adding such lovely goodies to my stash. Thank you for the dreams.
My favorite needlework tool is a sewing tweezers. I can remove random threads and or fuzz that i sometimes find on my stitching fabric and not worry about disturbing my stitches – Rosann P from NC
Yeah, that would be the needle minder,usually I use quite a few on a project:one for needles, one for scissors, one for the pattern, etc. They are quite useful.
Hi Mary,
My favorite tool (is it a tool? ) is the teeny set of magnets (~3/16″ discs) I attach to whatever I’m working on. One magnet goes over, and one goes under, the fabric, and my needles and pins love that magnet! I’m much better at keeping track of needles now.
Best,
June House
My Dazor magnifying light is always at my side. The light is nice and bright while the magnification is needed to help see stitches on smaller count fabric. I’d love to try your snowflakes on that lovely fabric.
It would have to be my needle threader and my thimble.
Pam from Gig Harbor
This looks really exciting! I am contemplating entering our National Exhibition in July 2020. It would be great to work on some different fabric and experiment with some new techniques.
I’ve had great help from”the ‘Stack” and appreciate their wide assortment of offerings!
There are 2 tools that I reach for most frequently, and I’m not sure which wins out: needle threader or tweezers. Being disabled, I am mostly one-handed in embroidery, and need help in threading my needle, and if there are any problems with my last stitch, the tweezers help in different ways to rectify or undo it.
Reading glasses and my iPad. Between online stitch dictonaries, tutorials and using it as a lightbox, my iPad is indispensible when I’m working on a project.
Light. Light. Light. My house is too dark, especially in the winter when I love to cozy up to stitch so a nice, good light is a must. Husband is a bear, he likes his dark caves so my portable lamps get a workout.
Believe it or not, it’s my readers. I had some not very successful cataract surgery (things went wrong and among other things caused a detached retina). So I’ve come back pretty slowly to needlework. Once I admitted to myself that it wasn’t going to get back without readers they have become a very important tool.
Thanks for the great giveaways, Mary. I am also a very happy customer of Needle in a Haystack.
The item I reach for most often is my laying tool. There is nothing quite so satisfying as having all the threads lined up in a neat row. And with the silk, the light plays on the fibers and makes magic.
My most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors) is my needle threaders. I’m frequently working with multiple strands, especially on canvas, and it’s so much easier this way. I like the flat double-ended threader, sometimes called a muriel style. And beading needles — the eye is so tiny! My go-to tool there is the Ultra-Fine Threader. Thanks to you and Needle in a Haystack for a wonderful offering.
For me, its a magnifying lens! I have one that clips on my project, I’ve had it for years. It has become more and more necessary over the years, sigh. But I’m too ornery to give up my love for needlework! So that’s that.
I love my pouches to keep things together. I stitch in an easy chair, and things tend to slide. With a pouch I can keep things contained and nearby.
The gifts today look amazing!
Jane
It’s got to be my needle threader or my laying tool!
My most reached for tool is a ruler. For some reason, I’m always needing it to measure my work and make sure I’m in a straight line on the fabric. I also need a good light source but that’s for reading and other projects, too.
My love is fine embroidery and I couldn’t manage without my magnifying light.
My favorite tool is probably my laying tool.to keep those threads straight.
If my magnifier counts it might beat that out.
Hope all have Happy Holidays!
My glasses are my next most important tool after needles and scissors. they might not really be a needlework tool in other people’s worlds, but they are in mine! After that is my needle threader.
My needle threader is probably what I want next to me and is used most often.
Love Needle in a Haystack.
My favorite tool after scissors and needles is my ott light. It is essential for fine work especially when I stitch at night. It doesn’t bother my husband but I can see my work. As I age good light is more and more important
My favourite tool is a set of clip on magnifiers because then I can see!!
I need my thimble to do hand work.
My most-used tool is probably my tweezers. They’re small, metal, and pointy, and great for either pulling out stitches that just didn’t work, or sometimes teasing out a knot in my thread
My most reached for tool is my laying tool. It feels great in my hand and I love the way my stitches lick when using it.
I need my glasses!!!!! When I can’t find them, I can’t do anything!
As i mainly work in tambour stich, from the bobbin, it’s my homebuilt bobbin holder!
My most reached for tool after my scissors and needles is my magnifiers – can’t do much stitching without those – I have three sets and have just bought a fourth set that have a light on as well. Always enjoy your website Mary – just about to get started on a snowflake or two or three 🙂 MichelleinScotland
I love my BLT – Shay Pendray’s Best Laying Tool for how easy it to use for laying threads smoothly or piercing holes for eyelets. I learned about by doing a search for embroidery laying tools several years ago, and up popped Mary’s blog! My lucky day – a perfect tool and a great teacher all in one fell swoop! Thank you, Mary!
I would love to try a 5″ Hardwicke Manor embroidery hoop. Mine is from Taiwan. Lol Or the needle keep looks so awesome!!! Makes me want to embroider!!! Pam Wesselink
My favourite needlework tool is my thimble. It is a Dorcas I bought in an antiques market in England about 15 years ago for £5. I love it because I can stitch for ever without getting a sore finger.
My favorite tool: I rely on my Embroidery Pocket Guide because I am not as proficient at embroidery as I am at cross stitch and quilting so it helps me with the various stitches. Thanks for all of this years give away treasures!
My thimble
My favorite ‘tool’ is silk thread! I love the look and feel of the silk, especially on linen.
My magnifier!
My favorite tool is my BLT (Best Laying Tool). I thought I had lost it for good for a couple of years, and I was organizing my stash about a year ago, and found it in one of my WIPs.
I don’t know whether this counts, but my most essential tool at my age is my light and magnifier combination. I couldn’t do fine work without it.
The tools I reach for the most often are counting pins. I use them constantly to make sure I’m in the right spot. My motto is “count twice, rarely rip”
I love pretty counting pins but when I’m desperate or in a hurry, regular needles will do the trick.
Have a lovely day and magical holiday season!
The one item I use all the time with my stitching is the little straight pin. It is so handy to aide is picking out stitches and to get a knot out of my thread. It is a must have when I settle down to stitch.
Tanis
My favorite needlework tool is my Lapapp. It supports my arms at the correct height when I’m stitching
It’s definitely my cross-stitch count ruler. It makes it so much easier to count when gridding or to figure out which fabric is going to work for my projects.
My most reached for needlework tool is my thimble. It keeps me going so much longer.
The tool I use the most, other than my needle, is my tweezers. I can catch my thread, pull my needle thru fabric if it is stuck, and pull thread if it tends to bubble.
The item that I can’t do without is the needle threader. Worth its weight in gold to me. Thanks for this fun contest. I enjoy it every year, Mary.
My most often reached for embroidery tool is no doubt a needle threader! Turning 62 this week, and new glasses supposed to be here on Friday.
My most valuable tool for my embroidery is my thimble, as my fingers are quite thin, it took a long time & several other thimbles to find the right one.
My most-reached-for tool for needlework is likely my 6″ hoop (aside from needles and scissors). 🙂
🙂 Linda
My most reached-for tool has got to be my Mag-Eyes magnifier. I’ve reached that stage in my life where I simply can’t make out details the way I could when I was 12. The lower magnification insert is great for when I’m doing smocking and the higher magnification really helps me see more detailed work.
Needle in a Haystack is a great place to browse. They’ve got -everything-!
My Beam n Read light has become a neccessity for needlework
I visited Needle In A Haystack when I was in SF two years ago. It is an absolutely delightful shop.
Ok, this isn’t something I reach for but really can’t stitch without my light. I have several types depending where I find myself stitching. My favorite is a stand, magnification light which moves easily on its wheels and bends every which way to provide the best light . My stuffed rocking chair and my light gives me a favorite place to stitches.
My most reached for tool would be my magnifying glass/light. Hard to see the threads so need a little help.
Thanks for this opportunity.
Juel
My favorite tool is my Daylight magnifier/light. If I can’t see I can’t stitch.
My most used needlework tool is my needle minder. I use this to attach my chart next to my stitching, and for needles.
How good of you to offer a treat for us. Each of your emails is a treat.
Bonnie
My Beam-n-Read light is on every time I begin stitching. I can’t stitch without it.
By far, the most reached for tool is the little hook that goes through fabric and pulls the thread back threw to the back.
Of ten times, my work will be loose. This allows me to get it into shape.
Bonnie
My most reached for tool is my lamp. I love having extra light to brighten up my stitching area. I think a lamp with a magnifier my be in my future soon too!
This sounds weird, but I needed a laying tool for silk ribbon embroidery, etc. and grabbed a plastic shark that is a drink stirrer from a bar. He has a long tapered snout that is perfect and he’s easy to hold.
Needles…gotta have the correct one for each project.
What a great set of goodies. I would love to add them to my stash. I have favorite hoops I like to use for my hand embroidery projects.
Keep up the good work.
My Nurge hoop holder is great, I have had it for a few months now and love it.
What a beautiful threes package and hoop.
I reach for a leather thimble used for quilting when my finger tip eczema acts up.
My favorite go to is my frame weight. It is a covered brick with an lofty padded top which I use as my pin cushion. I even travel with it.
My most often reached for tool is my lap app. Several years ago I treated myself to a lap app. I now find that it’s the first thing I grab when I’m ready to stitch.
I love my Nurge * hoop holder.
My most reached for tool are my reading glasses. I do a lot of fine stitching and it is so important that I can see!
My most useful aid while stitching is a clip on light that brightens my work area. Unfortunately, I do not recall the manufacturer or model of light. Merry Christmas all!
In order:
Mag Lamp – I use a Number-One. + Charger – I use a Pisen.
Fanny Hoop
Pin Cushion
Orts Jar
Books on Tape (I’m listening to the Golem and the Jinni).
Seam ripper ( because some mistakes are just too big).
Steam Iron (I use a Reliable 300 IS) Goodbye stubborn wrinkles in Linen.
My pattern or book
Spectacles
A comfy chair.
Besides needles and scissors, my stitching glasses. Without them I can’t see to do any embroidery.
I recently got a pair of magnifying glasses with a light from Craft Optics & it is my new favourite tool. So much easier to see & I have the best light no matter where I am!
My favourite tool is one of those tiny wee needlethreaders that you recommended because I’m stitching your silk gauze medallions and I can’t even start without it.
Thanks for a delightful give-away! What a delicious Christmas present.
My favorite tool is my Kreinik corder. It has saved me so much time in finishing up all the little projects that need some kind of cord.
Linda S.
Thanks for the tip on the needles been trying to find a place to get good needles. The kits look enticing also.
Lovely goodies from a terrific store – thank you Needle in a Haystack! And thank you Mary for all your wonderful tips and techniques. I always enjoy reading your emails and learn so much (and realise each time how very much there is to know).
I have a little plastic box that I carry embroidery floss, needles and scissors in that I change out per project. If I have an appointment that I think will take a while I can grab everything I need in a hurry. Norma in Nebraska
There is something about the laying tool that I love. I get a very satisfying feeling about using it to smooth a stitch.
Besides my needles and scissors, I could not stitch without my glasses. I have different strengths depending on how fine the embroidery is.
My “Beam n Read” personal light that hangs around my neck. It allows me to work on black even in the evening. Maryann in LaSalle
Although not specifically an embroidery tool, I always reach for my table top daylight LED lamp. Without this rechargeable, small, bright light I’d not be able to see well enough to stitch. I love that it is rechargeable as I can use it without being plugged in.
My next essential piece of equipment is my ort collection container. It’s amazing the number of little threads, waste knots and bits of fabric that it collects whilst doing a specific project. These orts are then given to a knitter who uses all these bits and pieces for stuffing knitted animals.
My seam ripper. Because I’m always changing my mind. Lol
A really good light, needle threader and glasses.
I don’t use any needlework tools except hoops, needles and scissors. I’ve been doing needlework for almost sixty years and those tools (I do wind my floss on cardboard bobbins so I guess the bobbin winder could be considered a needlework tool) are all that is really needed
My most relied on tool is my beautiful antique laying tool. It helps me to lay my threads to lay beautifully smooth, especially when doing satin stitch. =)
The tool I use most these days is a needle threader. I use a lot of Gumnut silk thread and I have awful trouble threading it into a 10 or 11 crewel needle. I have a lot of different style needle threaders and my favourite is my Bohin little tabletop one. Am on my second one of those as the first I used so much it snapped after a year, but is money well spent.
I reach for my Karen Buckley green handled scissors for cutting my threads.
I have a laying tool that has served me well during my time stitching. It works well to smooth threads as I am trying to help my work look truly finished.
I like to use a stitchers finger on my index finger when stitching. It certainly helps with pulling the needle through.
Since mine broke last night, I would have to say my needle threader! It seems impossible to get the thread in that tiny hole these days!
Hi! I use my trusty rulers quite regularly for the needlework I do. They keep accountable on distances, stitch size, straight lines etc. thanks! Hope I win – I love this shop!
Hoops and frames for stumpwork and blackwork.
I really like Wonder Clips for holding things in place, rather than using pins. I do a bit of English paper piecing, and the clips are handy for holding things together at odd angles and not getting poked by pins!
Hello. My favorite needlework tool is a small sterling silver needle threader. It makes threading my needle a pleasure. Thanks for this opportunity to win.
Oh my goodness…my favorite tool, does thread count. I love my thread, touching it perusing through it. If that is not counted I love my pin cushion that holds my needles. I made it last year it is in a shape of a star and it makes my smile whenever I look over at it.
Have a fabulous winder season! Be safe, stay healthy,
Naomi
Is Thread Heaven / Thread Magic (thread conditioner) a “tool”…? It’s certainly the other key thing I consistently keep in my project kit besides needles and threads. If that’s not considered a “tool”, then I’d have to say a bead box: either a store-bought credit-card sized box with one inside side covered with a kind of sticky mat so beads don’t go scattering. Alternately I use a little plastic box from GUM Soft Picks, and have put double-sided tape on one side of the inside.
It’s hard to pin (ahem) that down to just one item, but the basket or bin I put my current projects & accessories in is greatly needed as is a needle minder
I always reach for my readers. I just can’t find the exact spot to put my needle without them.
The tool I reach for most, other than scissors and needle, might be the seam ripper! I’ve stitched on and off over the years but not consistently enough to be as good as I want to be.
My favorite needlework tool besides my needle and scissors are my magic eyes magnifier, so I can clearly see what I am doing! Now that my eyes are not as sharp as they used to be, I find that the additional “help” keeps my stitches much more accurate, and I don’t have to do as much “reverse stitching”.
My most used tool, outside of needles & scissors, would be my ‘cheaters’ &/or floor stand magnifier. Sad but true. Especially when I am working on linen, doing over 1 stitching.
Thanks to Needle in a Haystack for donating; thanks to you for all the reflective questions you ask.
Gail in GA
I find that having my needle threader close at hand is what I need most. Embroidery seems to require much more needle threading with thicker threads than any other sewing and I’d be lost without my favorite needle threader. But I have several.
My favorite needlework tool is my retractable scissor holder. No more dropping my scissors down the sides of chairs, on floors, in bags, etc.
Mary, just want to say that I have used Needle In a Haystack’s online shopping cart many times. Absolutely best place to find those hard to locate threads for my needlepoint.
I think my needle threader would be the one item I use often. When threading up more than one thread, which I usually do, I find a threader faster and less frustrating. Also some to the speciality threads have a tendency to shred with repeated handling. so the one time use of a threader is a way to save on trimming ends.
I would have to say my thimble. It does an awesome job of keeping my finger from becoming sore from pushing a needle through cloth. I could not sew without it.
My favorite tool is my transfer pen. It’s so fast and easy to to start stiching a pattern right away.
Favorite tool that I keep nearby and use repeatedly during any stitching session is the flat metal needle threader with hooks of different sizes at either end. While my vision is still good, this tool saves me time, especially when working with specialty threads, such as metallics!
I like a good need threader as my eyesight sure isn’t what it used to be. I love my readers, too, for the same reason!
My favourite tool is my brass stiletto.
How nice to experiment with these materials!
The needlework tool I use most often is my thimble! I generally have one in my pocket, one in my purse, one at my sewing machine, one at my hand-sewing “station,” one in each project–you get the idea!
I made the Pin Cushion in Allie Aller’s Crazy Quilting book and it really is the perfect pin cushion. Big-ish and flat – it stays put and small needles can’t be pushed so far down they get lost. I even tucked in a pocket of emery sand under one corner.
Most used item… has to be a hoop – I use many sizes. Thanks for all of the instruction you give – and the good photos, too.
Hi!
I think after scissors (I have a weakness for scissors) I probably use my needle threader the most. Boring, but there you are. The thing I reach for most is my home-made chatelaine though. It lives pinned to an apron strap and has a pair of scissors, a needle case (a container from Clover) and a DMC blue needle threader on it. It works a treat and I am well equipped for anything that comes up with my chatelaine!
Renata
In every project I am working on, I have to have one of the small round rubber discs to grip needles. They make it so easy to pull needles through stitching on the back to finish off. Arthritis makes this hard to do without the disc!
I use my magnetic pin keeper every time I sew/stitch. It keeps my pins/needles available and off the floor. The items in this give away are all so nice!!!
My most reached for tool is a handmade Terry Gibson basket. Gibson baskets are pretty popular where I live. It’s large enough to hang on my arm to carry & I keep my work-in-progress organized inside smaller baskets & bags inside it. I carry it often to sew while I watch my grandson or from room to room where ever I want to sit & sew. I even take it down to our point on the lake & sit in a cozy chair to sew on sunny days.
I have 3 cats, 2 of them long haired. My most reached for tool would be tweezers!
My favorite tool is a laying tool
My favorite tool is my light-up needle threader. My eyesight is not as good as it once was and I have a heck of a time threading a needle.
I am never without my trust quick grip clamps for hands free stitching and my magnifier, need to keep my eyes in good shape!
Hi Mary this is so ironic and a lesson in never say never!
My favorite pick up tool is my iPad to check either your ‘How to do Stitches,’ or some stitching apps I bought, before your site was found, now that’s a go to as well. When the WiFi is down in a doctors office, the stitcher’s guides are in your iPad and easy to reach. So I can check on a new stitch or check the last ones put in!
But for my “I told you so.” lesson: I lived in Alameda less than a few blocks from where her store is now when my husband and I were still working in San Francisco! There was a ferry that picked everyone up from the island to go across the SF bay to the beginning of downtown. The most stress less way to travel.,After having an emergency mback surgery that was a very long recovery, and I started looking for things to with my hands in the meantime. Stopping at her shop and seeing the exquisite work hanging from the walls. There were tiny realistic vases & bouquets of flowers in pieces that looked like miniature versions of their models. I stopped in my tracks and simply stared in awe at all the different types of work completely overwhelmed covering every wall,. Cathe looked up from her work at her table in the back and asked if she could help. I told her I didn’t think so, I would NEVER have the patience to do any of these gorgeous things, but thanked her and commented, ‘I really had no idea needle work could be so varied and realistic.’ She said I would probably surprise myself one day. I was in my late twenties & and doubted that completely. Now, 20+yrs later, I’d give anything, especially moving back to Alameda or the area, to have a needlework shop so close and well stocked including all that eye candy on the walls! And she was right!
That day is burned into my memory as one of the days that made the world bigger and more varied than the daybefore
Lying tool. I need all the help I can get to make sure things look nice.
My magnetic pattern marker keeps me on track as I start and stop often on my projects.
What a lovely giveaway. There is nothing I love better that linen.
Thank you!
After needles and scissors, I reach first for my leather fingertip thimble patches and rubbery finger covers that help me grip and pull through the needles without fatiguing my fingers.
Donna R NC
My favourite, most reached for tool is my thimble. I have sensitive fingers and this is protective item is a gem! I love your website, Mary, it is a wealth of inspiration and incredible resource! Thank you:)
My most reached for tool is my seam ripper unfortunately! Great giveaway, thanks for the chance ti win it!
Oh my … My favorite, most used tool is my needle threader as my eyes (or is it my fingers) don’t work so well anymore. So every project bag has one in it!
My most reached for needlework tool is my magnifying light. I know it’s not really a tool that involves the actual stitched product, but it makes seeing the linen so much easier! Thank you!!
Don’t laugh but my ‘must-have’ when I’m embroidering is a lint roller!
I have 9 cats….
My needleminder. I never realized how much I randomly parked my needles until I didn’t one on my project!
I am getting interested in this type of needle work! Items would be great to start up!
By far my most useful tool us my new craftoptics prescription magnifier light!
I don’t have much in the way of needlework tools yet, mostly just scissors, needles, and hoops, but I do really love my scissors.
My pincushion! To hold those needles and thread.
My favorite tool is an oldie – no longer available, unfortunately – my Star De-Tailor. I use it for neatening up the back of my work, hiding the ends of threads among previous stitches. It’s also indispensable for putting in that ‘one more stitch’ when the thread is too short and slips out of the needle.
My needle threader, often a puffin micro-threader, is constantly used.
Most favoured tool is my notebook of future projects and “next to do” List!! Aaah, the delight of finishing a piece and the thrill of “what next?” Choosing materials, patterns and colour palette, threads and embellishments!!
Imagination riot!! Love the thrill of a new start!!
After my needle and scissors, the needlework tool I reach for is my clip-on magnifier.
The needlework tool I reach for is a sweet little vintage needle book I found at an estate sale. It’s hand embroidered with blue cotton thread on white linen. It still had a tiny Made in Italy label on it. I filled the white flannel insert with the needles I use most often. There are so many hours of pleasure (and sometimes frustration!) associated with this little treasure.
I love my laying tool. It can lay threads or open a hole a bit. It is wooden and feels nice in my hand.
What a great collection of goodies!
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
A few years ago I joined a cross stitch group at a library. Our project was to create a monogrammed pincushion. I went along with it, not thinking much of it. But that pincushion is always at my side now. It has a ribbon to tuck my scissors in. I *never* lose my needle anymore! I didn’t think I use it, let alone be so fond of it.
My favorite little tool I use when stitching (unstitching) is a pair of tweezers from a suture removal kit. Very handy because the ends are bent and you can easily see what you’re doing. Many thanks to Mary and Cathe for providing Holiday fun and excitement!
I my most useful tools are the project pouches and bag that I use to keep everything organized.
My go to tool has to be my light and magnifying lens … for higher thread counts and color choices. I rarely work without them. Thanks!!!
My favourite tool would have to be my clip on magnifying glasses. Light and easy to wear, I can see my work in detail.
My most favorite needlework tool? That’s had to pin down, but I think I have to go with a good laying tool. It’s convenient fir a lot of stitching, especially when using more than one strand, but a necessity for smocking where the strands must be side by side.
My favorite and most used item is my needle threader and I have at least 4 types, depending on the size of the needle. Secondarily, I’m reaching for my Puffin Co. embroidery thread weight which allows me to smoothly separate 2 strands from a piece of floss…LOVE the giveaway and will be wandering over to the Stack to see and shop.
My micro needle threader is a wonderful tool. So much less frustration in my life!
Love Needle in a Haystack. Can’t say enough about their customer service.
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why? That’s an easy question! My neighbor gave me a great collection of floss that had been belonged to her Mother. I think because they are rather old that they get snarled more than new floss would. So now before threading my needle I run the floss through Thread Magic which is a thread conditioner and I get fewer tangles. It also makes it easier to thread the needle. Gay from Westchester NY
My favorite tool is my organizing tray. It keeps everything I need in one place. Also keeps me from sitting on sharp pointy things.
Laying tool to keep threads lined up.
My magnifying glass is my favorite tool and constant companion whenever I sit down to embroider. I almost gave up embroidery because of my poor vision. But when I found that there are magnifiers you can wear hands free, my sewing days were back in business! I am so very grateful I can continue to embroider thanks to my magnifier!
I went to an auto parts store and purchased a telescoping magnet, for much less money than those sold in craft/needlework shops. It is a lot more satisfying for picking up dropped needles and pins rather than using bare feet.
Unfortunately, my most reached for tool is my seam ripper.
The tool I reach for most often, well, really two: the scissors to cut thread and the needle threader if the thread is a little fussy about going into the needle. Probably the scissors is number 1 after the thread and the needle.
my Thimble is my favorite tool other than my needles and scissors.
My magnifiers so I can see what I am doing.
Favorite ‘tool’ to grab is actually my tool bag. Because I have lots of projects of various sizes, I have several ready to grab so my go-tos are ready to travel with me for stitching at a friend’s house or headed across country. Next to that has to be my magnifier and my light. I want my stitching eyes to last another hundred years!
My very favorite tool for stitching is the laying tool, which when used properly allows the thread to lay perfectly
making your finished project looking professional.
This giveaway from Needle in a Haystack is fabulous, especially the Bohin needles.
Thanks Mary,
Teri S.
My magnifying daylight lamp, Im blind AND I cant see!!!
this set #4 is such a delight. Being able to experiment so beautiful fabrics and threads will surely be a pleasure.
Thanks to those who offer them trough you.
My best wishes for this coming Holidays period.
My most reached-for tool, other than needle and scissors, is my pin cushion. I stop and start so often I can never have it far from me.
My most reached for tools are my tweezers and my mother’s embroidery hoop. The tweezers help me stay neat, and the hoop just makes me feel hugged.
My favorite it my needle threader. Could not stitch without it.
I like to stitch with a hoop- 5 or 6 inch- is my favorite.
My favourite most reached for tool is my needle threader. It’s very modest and it sits in a wooden box that I stained and added a stitched piece to the top of it. I use it faithfully, almost without even thinking about it.
Thanks for the chance to win. Merry Christmas
My favorite go-to tool (other than scissors or needles) is my trusty forceps. I use them for pulling needles and thread through thick fabric, for adding stuffing, and many other things!
My favorite tool is my hoop. I’m one of those people who will try every type hoop available and continually switch them around according to whatever project, or two, that I am currently working on. But it all comes back to my original hoop 5 inches, that I first learned to use. It is so smooth and the wood is lovely both to hold and work with. I never travel far without it!!
My favorite tool for needlework are my new embroidery hoops. After a lifetime of using just any old hoops I have invested in some good hoops with adjustable screws. The difference t makes in my stitching is phenomenal. I also found on Amazon the cotton twill tape in about 50 yards for $15.00. Quite a bargain. It makes embroidering so must better.
Thanks again for these lovely giveaways and your wealth of knowledge.
Melinda
My most favorite tool would be my eyeglasses, as I couldn’t do any needlework without them.
I guess the tool I reach for the most is my needle minder. It.keeps everything in its place, even my scissors. I often just have it (or two) on the table next to me with everything stuck to it.
I go to my headlight. Intense light focus. Love it!
My most reached for tool is my World’s Best Laying Tool. I use it to smooth and lay my stitches, open up a hole in canvas for eyelets or other stitches that will have a lot of thread passing through, counting spaces (better than my finger or a counting pin), and a few other things that don’t immediately come to mind.
Thanks,
Heather
Curious to learn more!
I depend on a pair of Palm Pliers for pulling needles through tight places.
Nice assortment of goodies here! The needles and linen are calling my name! Cindy in Maryland
I would love to visit Needle in a Haystack; it sounds like my kind of store. But it is so far away from Brisbane, Australia where I live.
I can’t do without my lamp that is a Daylight Slimline LED Floor lamp which has long arm reach of 55cm (22″) and an even, wide coverage of light, but is thin so it doesn’t get in the way when I embroider on fine linen whilst watching TV.
My most often used tool in needlework would be the instructions with a picture and something to mark my place on the instruction sheet and then my laying tool to avoid twists in the thread. Thank you for this super great giveaway!
My wonderful light/lamp that my sister and brother-in-law gave me. My eyes (and my stitching results) are so grateful.
I’m a beginner so I don’t have very many tools yet, my newest tool is a puffin micro needle threader. I need to break my bad habit of dampening the ends of my threads when I thread a needle ☺️
My most reached for tool is my lamp. Without proper lighting I have trouble seeing lines and proper colors. Thanks for the great giveaways!!
My most used, go to needlework tool is my Slimline floor lamp. For every kind of hand work or craft I do, I need LOTS of light. My husband jokes that my stitching area looks like an operating theater. After my Ott light recently died, I wanted something better. The Slimline definitely fits the bill.
Great giveaway! I’m seriously obsessed with scissors, but aside from my scissor collection, my favourite tool is my laying tool.
One of my favorite tools, is my magnetic needle nanny.
I love good hoops that tighten with a screwdriver!! I stitched cross stitch many years “in hand” but now that I’m doing surface embroidery I find I love the taut fabric in a hoop.
I make Needle in a Haystack a regular stop when I am anywhere near the shop. I live about 50 miles away so if I am in the area with time I try to hit the Haystack, Lacy’s and Stone Mountain and daughter. The three stores are very special in this world of quick mass production shopping. The variety of threads at the Haystack are amazing.
WHEN I’M WORKING MAKING RETICELLA LACES, AT FIRST YOU HAVE TO GO THRU SEVERAL LAYERS OF MATERIAL, VERY HARD ON FINGER TIPS, SO I FINALLY FOUND A THIMBLE. AFTER TRYING MANY OF ALL KINDS, THE METAL OR PLASTIC I DIDN’T LIKE, I CAN’T FEEL THE NEEDLE, THERE ARE SOME PINK ONES MADE OF SILICONE OR SOMETHING BUT HAVE TOO MANY HOLES, I FINALLY STARTED USING FINGER TIP YELLOW RUBBERS THAT ACCOUNTANTS USE WHEN GOING THRU PAPERS. PERFECT THEY ARE SOFT ENOUGH TO CONTROL THE NEEDLE, BUT GIVES ENOUGH PROTECTION TO FINGER TIPS. RUBBER FINGER TIPS. P.S. I LOVE THIS WEBSITE, LEARN MORE HERE THAN ALMOST ANYWHERE ELSE. THANK YOU
I’ve been looking for a good embroidery hoop. I’m so glad you mentioned a good one fromNeedle in a Haystack. I’m going to go check out their website for a hoop and needle
Thank you
Carolyn S
My most reached for tool after my needles and scissors is a rather unusual wooden laying tool. It has a slight narrowing near the tip then widens back out before the tip which allows one to catch the thread, get it all nicely aligned then release it over the rise and into position. I got it from a friend years ago and have never managed to find another like it!
Of course my scissors are the most reached for tool but this is followed by my needle threader.(I have passed the point where threading a size 12 needle is fun without it!)
Best Wishes,
Jan
I’m very enthusiastic about today’s give-away! The threads looks so interesting; your picture is great Mary. Presently, my lap-sit frame is my ‘go-to’ piece of equipment. It is so much easier to embroider with both hands free. Best of Luck to everyone.
It would be wonderful to get a prize for reading your lovely newsletters from the other side of the world. I would be very grateful to receive anything from you that may grow my stash. Thank you. It would be such a nice surprise!!! This now gives me an opportunity to thank you for all your useful bits of information and embroidery knowledge over this past year. God bless you Mary and keep you and your family safe over this holiday season. Season Greetings!
I guess I rely mostly on my OptiVisor, for without that I would be unable to stitch at all. I have several of different magnifications and have used them for nearly 50 years. Next would likely be appropriate needles for the project. Thanks for the fun opportunity!
My 3.0 cheater glasses!
My favorite tool is my Ott light. I use it day and night to make all my needlework a step up in quality. My eyes are less tired so it’s doubtful I’ll give this up anytime soon!
My favorite most-used tool for needlework is absolutely my air-eraseable marker! It’s great for adjustments on-the-fly, and for adding details to work that needed a little something more. ♥
My must have favorite yolo is my floor light with a magnifier in the middle. Older eyes are residing in my head.
My most needed tool would be thread. I love when I can use a variegated thread. I also like to add buttons to my embroidery.
Hmm… It really is a toss up between my laying tool and my short pointed tweezers.
My laying tool is made from the handle of a tea spoon and fits and balances nicely in my hand. I love my laying tool because it helps the threads lay so nicely and in position so they show their best aspects.
I really love my short pointed tweezers because if you need to maneuver or tuck in tight spots, it fits perfectly and very precise. It is good for plucking out those dreaded fuzzies when you have to “gasp!” reverse stitch, too.
Of course, there are many many more tools I really enjoy using. But I think those are the two I love the most and can’t live without.
Thank you so much Mary for these opportunities. And thank you to Needle In A Haystack for this one. They are a fantastic store and I order from them quite often. They have the most beautiful fabric and are such a friendly and helpful store.
My favourite tool is my telescoping magnet. Wouldn’t find all the dropped needles without it.
My go to tool is the seam ripper because sometimes you just have to rip and start over.
My favorite, most reached-for needlework tool(s) are my inspiration books. From the most basic “how-to”, to the most complex books on stumpwork, needle painting, and ribbon embroidery, my well-loved, well-worn collection is a constant and indispensable source of joy.
And after getting my fill, I put the books away ready to stitch!
My most reached for took are my magnifying glasses. I can’t stitch without them.
My most reached for tool, since I must choose one, would be my glasses. Sadly, I’m aging and that means so are my eyes! But the glasses are so utilitarian, & if I had to pick a FUN go to item…then it would be all my pattern books. Inspiration!!
My favorite tool is my button magnet!
After losing countless needles which seemed to have a habit of just “disappearing” , I now always put the needle I’m using on the magnet each time I finish a thread.
Sometimes the smallest, least significant items are the most useful!
While I love all my tools, I can’t be without a good needle threader. As I get older, I hate wasting valuable stitching time when there are so many good products on the market.
Of course I couldn’t use the tool without my glasses.
I guess I would say my most common tool is my needle threader. Now that I’m older and the eyes so fine I really need to use it often.
I’d have to say my laying needle to keep the threads in place while I am working
I am so excited to enter this giveaway. First, I love Bohin needles and can never have enough of them; although I hardly ever throw them out, because they are not worn out even at the end of big stitchery project. Plus all the other goodies are excellent as well — you can always count on Needle In a Haystack to have the good stuff.
Secondly, I truly love the question for this giveaway. What tool do I most often reach for while stitching? The answer is one of my Hardwick Manor hoops-on-a-stick. I set the hoop with my embroidery stretched just right in either the sit-on- frame or (more often) in the table clamp. The hoops are so good, that they don’t stretch out, so you don’t have to constantly pull the cloth tighter as you work. Not only is my embroidery better because I can easily use the stab method of stitching using BOTH hands (one on top, the other beneath the work); but I save my neck and back a lot of pain. And, of course, my hands get achy because I don’t have to hold up a frame. The hoops the table clamp or the seat frame allow me to adjust everything to make stitching more comfortable and more fun!
Rightfully, part of this comment should have been made earlier when Mary was asking us about our hoop preferences, but it’s a true answer to today’s giveaway query.
Missie from Roseville reaches for a needle threader constantly, or so it seems, when stitching. I have some with very fine wire loops and some that are more sturdy. Different needle types need different threaders. I have not tried the automatic type of threader, but have a hunch I will try one soon.
My favorite tool is my Ort Box. Every time I use it it brings back delightful memories. I learned to make this box during a program with fellow EGA members. The little box folds flat so fits easily in any project bag. Since it is used for discarded thread pieces I use it a lot. It certainly helps to keep me neat and tidy. It has traveled with me to many a stitch-in and retreat which adds even more memories.
The needle-minder, without a doubt!
No more dropped needles getting stepped on…
I have a Yazee small tote that is great for keeping all my supplies together in 1 spot. I like the multiple compartments with zippers. It holds ALOT of stuff!
My tool would be the Clover needle threader. I would be in dire straights without it!
First I want to say I love reading your emails and also learning about all these websites for embroidery needs I have learned so much more about embroidery which was my first craft from when I was a child. . Thank you
My favorite tool, hard to pick. My wonderful embroidery scissors on a retractable wire, or my lovely floor Ott Lamp that gives me great light as my eyes get older.
Pins – unless you count the custom wallet thing I made to carry essentials around easily when I did most of my sewing on buses. Especially fine, long pins which I think are silk pins, though I’ve never used them in silk.
My favorite tool is my magnifier. Couldn’t stitch most projects without it.
Wishful and thankful. Thank you Mary for all your hard work over the past year.
My favorite tool that I like to use is a small box with a tiny sponge that I got many years ago. The sponge I spray with distilled water. I then run my floss over that to have a nicer stitching outcome. The little box has a lid and the sponge stays damp a very long time. I use this very frequently. I also use Thread Heaven for quieting some unruly threads.
I would say my favourite tool is my laying tool – it makes such a difference to stitching without one.
I’m a long way from Calfornia but would love to visit this shop!!
I love my 8″ Q-snap. The tension can’t be beat! My other must-have is a needle minder. I didn’t know they existed until a couple years ago but now I never want to be without one.
My first thing I grab is my Ott light. once the light is set in place I can then find everything I need to start sewing.
My most reach for is my Needlminder. I am so glad I purchased it. All I have to do is pick up my project & I am ready to go.
My needle threader, my eyesight isn’t what it used to be!
Bohin needles without a trip to France!
The first thing I reach for is my thimble. Can’t stitch without it!
Sadly my most used tool is my seam ripper— but not for the obvious reason. I don’t have a laying tool, so I carefully use my seam ripper to even out strands of floss when stitching… 🙂
Good needles & scissors are followed swiftly by the fabulous little silicone thimbles which Mary recommended awhile ago. Perfect fit, comfortable and used (on different fingers) for both embroidery & sock knitting!
The thing I reach for the most after needle and thread is my needle threader. Bohin is one of my favorite needles and I would like to try a Hardwick man or hoop.
My favourite tool, other than needles and a good pair of sharp scissors, would probably be a good embroidery hoop; although sometimes I spurge and don’t use one at all! But not often. Thank you Mary for this lovely give away. Merry Christmas blessings.
Sending blessings of the season ❤️
My most reached for tool is my mellor. Even when not doing goldwork, I can use it as a laying tool or to nudge a stitch into position or stroke it flat. Love it!
Sounds odd, but really, it is probably my air or water erase pens. I tend to draw or write and then stitch over it
I love my needle book from Valley Quail EGA. I can always find exactly what I need.
Pincushions and orts jar to keep needles and leftover threads. Also SC few driver to tighten the hoops in between.
Typo.. please read as screw driver for tightening my hoop.
My favourite needlework tool would have to be my laying tool made for me by my late friend and mentors son. Since learning to use it I always have it by me. Not only does it ensure my threads lie flat it also helps me lay threads across padding, straighten twisted stitches and even remove knots.
Thanks Mary for a chance in the draw for a lovely lucky dip of needlework items of such beautiful quality.
My favorite tool is my short fat laying tool made by Nino. I love a short laying tool because my hands are small.
I love wooden hoops and frames, I have a collection in different sizes. And here in this give-away I could get another one and I would like it!
My tool I love the most is my strawberry from the RSN, my needles always feel amazing to sew with.
It would have to be my goldwork snub nosed tweezers for allowing me to make sharp corners with my metal threads.
My clip on magnifier, without it I couldn’t tackle half the things that I like to sew
Closer, closer, closer, now I see, yes my magnifier light. Age has caught up with my personal lenses, in the form of eyes, and I needs must rely on artificial magnification, it works and I’m happy!
Cheers,
Kath Grabham
do lights count as tools? because I can’t stitch without my ott lite! if not.. then my magnifying clip-on lenses, why? cos I’m getting old and my eyes aren’t as good as they once were…. not much is LOL
My most used tool beside my scissors and needle is my hoop. I can embroider with out it, but I have noticed my stitches are much nicer with one. I have plastic, wood and vintage metal ones, in all sizes, and I love them all.
I have a couple of “knit pickers” – miniature latch hooks that I use all the time to secure thread ends on the back of my pieces. Usually because I try not to waste any thread and don’t leave a long enough end to use a needle to do that very necessary task. I’ve even used them to finish off the last stitch or two on a piece when I have really pushed the envelope on using every last centimeter.
I like having a big ole tapestry needle. I use it to poke of things needing a good poke, a laying tool, a knot sorter, a thread separator, a thread picker, and probably more. It is just handy to have about.
The needlework tool that I reach for the most is my “Star d Tailor “. I use it when I have left my thread too short to end it off properly.
My clip on light! I often think I don’t really need to use it but am surprised at the difference it makes even when I thought I had enough light.
My favourite tool for stitching is little pair of snips. So easy to just pick up and cut thread. Mini fist pump for finishing another thread haha.
My favourite needlework tool has to be my thimble!
I love all of my needlework tools and enjoy opening my tool chest every time I have the time to stitch. But, one of my favorite and necessary stitching products is a bag of powdered rosin. Just a light tap on my sewing fingers and I have a nice, even grip of my needle with every stitch.
My most reached for needlework tool is my unpicker! That will tell you something about my success level… I use it because 1) it is sharp so less damage to thread and fabric when removing stitches and 2) the tip is fine so I can use it to lift a stray thread or ease something into place.
It’s a plastic tool and I really ought to get a more substantial one considering how much I use it…
My first go to needlework tool is my Elbesee seat embroidery frame. It’s wonderful!
My Clover brand mini iron, craft iron: indispensable. I gets into tiny spaces, but also it will get into spaces my hand won’t fit: We were making Christmas Cracker decorations recently. How far can an iron get into a cardboard tube? You only need to get into it as far as you can see, I admit. However when getting the pleats inside to stay flat so the outside will pouff correctly – was the finishing touch that let me feel completely satisfied. There are other ways I suppose, and surely I was being especially exacting in the task, but if I have the tool, why settle for good enough? I use it often.
When settling down to an evening of stitching, I first reach for my clip-on magnifiers to attach to my glasses. They give me the opportunity to work easily on 48 count silk gauze whilst making miniature needle work, and still keep an eye on what ever my husband is watching on TV! I classify them as my favourite needlework tool, because without them I could not easily do my tiny needlework.
My most reached for embroidery tool besides the hoop, a needle threader because it seems I often have trouble threading needles.
My most relied on tool is my Mellor Laying Tool. I also use my beeswax block a lot too. What a wonderful prize – I would be able to create a beautiful snowflake just like yours if I was lucky enough to win the give away!
Jacqueline Burton
A small pair of jewellery pliers, so handy when it comes to pulling needles through and for tightening hoops!
My favorite tool is my floor stand! Without it, my left hand would get cramps from holding the hoop in the same position for so long. Now I don’t have that problem and I can use both hands to embroider!
I love to work with a magnetic needle holder, then you always know where you put it
Happy Holidays! My most reached for cross stitching tool is my friend! I have not been stitching for that long and she helps me get it right! After all, stitching time alone is great but stitching with friends is the best.
Mon outil aussi present c’est un aimant pour les aiguilles que je met sur le dessus de ma broderie. Il sert à tenir en place mes aiguilles alors elles ne glissent pas .
Probably a seam ripper.
My must have tool for embroidery is a good hoop, usually 6”.
Oh those or so gorgeous!
My favourite tool, I’m not sure can be called a tool: my thread storage bin. Makes me so giddy with glee to see all my threads and all the endless possibilities.
Laying tool. Great tool to keep my stitching smooth.
Now that you’ve taught me, Mary, not to lick my thread, a needle threader is my most beloved tool. Tiny eye, huge eye, no matter: to the threader I always go!
Great goodies!
My favorite stitching item is my Daylight, it’s wonderful.
Marilyn F
Thank you for an opportunity for such a fantastic selection from Needle in a Haystack!! My newest so my most favorite needlework supply item was recommended by you Carol, Beautify Beauties Flairosol Spray Bottle, from the link on your supplies pages! I never thought about a fine mist to assist in blocking and I LOVE LOVE LOVE this! Can’t believe I lived so long without it!!
My most reached for needlework tool is my magnetic needle holder. I can thread a good selection of needles so that I don’t have to keep stopping to rethread. It prevents me from using the lazy-stitcher too-long of thread habit. Especially helpful with blended needles. A Hardwick hoop has been on my wishlist for a very long time. Would love to win this.
A small lamp, to provide better lighting!
I’m a pretty low maintenance stitcher so, in addition to needle and scissors, the one tool I use regularly is a trolley needle.
I am a beginner who began teaching myself using your website in October. So far, the tool I use the most is my thread ripper! I am still learning, and it’s so useful to have the ability to start again. My needle-threader is a close second. Thank you for your lovely website!
my most used tool is a plastic needle. it is sold for small children to use in learning stitching. i use it as a laying tool. i don’t use a lot of tool other than that.
My thimble, definitely.
I am lucky enough to have a Needlework store near me. So much more fun than online shopping , but appreciate having the online when needed.
My favorite embroidery tools are my Q-snap frames in various sizes.
My needle threader is one of my most used tools. I no longer struggle with the thin threads and small needle eyes. Can’t manage without it for the finer work.
Hi Mary,
What a lovely give away you offer once again !
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is my beloved “tool keeper”, a little suit case like leather pouch I got from my grand mother ages ago, when I was a little girl – somewhat more than 40 years ago ! I still got it and it’s in perfect shape. Of course all the little plastic original tools are gone with more “adult” like ones, more handy for embroidery, but the pouch is there, and my granny memories with it.
Delphine
Hmm…I think my little flashlight is what I reach for the most. I use it to help me find needles I’ve put down or dropped.
My glass layong tool. It makes my stitching look so good, feels great in my hand and looks beautiful!
Another great collection of new things to try. My favorite needlework tool is a laying tool. My favorite ones the stiletto from Jenny Adin Christie that you highlighted a few weeks ago.
My most reached for tools are my needle books. I made small 5×5 inch needle books and I keep them in each project bag. They hold the needles I’m using in that project, a needle minder, and the felt pages even hold my orts until I get back to my regular spot. They’re cute and handy.
Besides excellent needles and scissors, the essentials that I use are some kind of disappearing marking tools like water-soluble pens. I have a variety of markers that I test on my fabrics before stitching. Not only can I draw designs but I get help keeping my place in a design.
My goodness, what a lovely give-away! Even if I don’t win, thank you for the heads-up about Haystack — I’ve been looking for a one-stop should for all my needles! What a great opportunity!
My favorite relied on item while stitching is my magnifying lamp. Without it I would be lost and unable to stitch neatly.
My favorite tool other than needle or scissors is my scroll frame/ hoop/ stretcher bars. It keeps my needlework straight and less wrinkles than if worked in hand.
I have needle threaders in every shape and size for every weight of thread.
They are my go to tools, as I find it makes life so much easier.
I agree with the comment below; the trolley needle is a very well used tool especially in silk ribbon
My favorite embroidery tool is my Dublin magnifying lamp. I used to wear 2 pairs of glasses, my regular progressives with reading glasses over them. I have astigmatism so I have percription reading glasses. I used to get alot of laughs from family and friend who visited. I made an embroidered quilt for my best friend and she bought me the Dublin as a gift. I love it. My other favorite (that I wish I never had to use is my seam ripper but since I have the Dublin I can see every mistake. lol). So very thankful for both.
What a wonderful present! Your Christmas Give-Aways are so much fun – inspirational and exciting!
My favourite most-reached-for needlework tool has to be – alas! – my $2 shop glasses. As my eyes get older they are deteriorating, and I really need powerful glasses so that I can see the very tiny stitches I love working.
The most important, reached for tools are definitely my magnifying headset and my overhead Ott lite. I can not stitch without them so beside my needle and scissors the lite and my magnifiers are all that I need to stitch with!
I always reach for my thimble when I have a needle in hand. Even if I don’t need it, I’ll wear it on my left hand pinky just till have close by. (It has no top and I can wear it like a ring).
Thanks for the giveaway!
My most reached for needlework tool, besides what I can’t mention, is my hoop.
I have several, because my work comes in various sizes but I am unable to stitch with out one.
Thankyou.
Kind regards
Christine Szm.
My favorite tool has probably got to be the laying tool.
My favorite tool is the hoop. I have tons of hoops. I have a couple good quality Hardwick Manor ones I use to stitch. I also buy all and any I find at thrift stores. I use these to display my quick and easy projects.
My favorite needle working accessories is my thimble by Clover. It has a soft thimble cup with a metal needle protector at the tip. I have two sizes, medium and large, to use when my fingers swell at the end of the day. They stay on with their rubbery thimble cup grip and I find that it is easy to pull the needle through by pinching the needle between the thimble and my thumb. I can wear it all day and never have any soreness from using this wonderful thimble. I have several in all my sewing boxes!
The Needle Grabber! In my recent embroidery adventures with both Rozashi and Temari have me reaching for the Needle Grabber, it has become a most valuable tool, small but mighty.
Of course I have to include your website, Mary, which is my go-to place to refresh on techniques☺️.
Helen in Tucson
I make sure I have a dish or tray to hold everything I am working with, ie my scissors or I’ll have to search for them then get confused.
My favorite stitching tool is my left thumb which serves as my laying tool whenever I travel and happen to forget the real item. Therefore, I must keep my second laying tool in mint condition i.e. no rough nail or skin so that threads can lay smoothly.
I have to say of the tools I keep close when embroidering I reach often for my grandfathers magnifying glass. Although it’s probably close to 75 years old it’s still in great shape with few scratches. I can remember as a young girl (I’m 63, so that was a while ago) the glass on his desk which was used often. Sometimes when I’m following a pattern I need to see items a little closer. I keep it right beside me in a pouch on the outside of my WIP tote.
My absolute most used tool is my pair of curved tip tweezers. Those tweezers do everything! I also have a multi-section tool bag I made a few years ago, which holds everything I need and goes with me anytime I travel. I think I’d be lost without it.
My favorite stitching tool is my clip-on magnifiers. I prefer to work on linen or other relatively high-count evenweave, often stitching over one, so they are essential to my “old” eyes.
My indespensible item is my needle minder. I actually recently discovered this tool and don’t know how I lived without it
My embroidery hoop because it gives my embroidery the perfect shape for each stitch to be done exactly.
Good Morning,
As a newbie I have ordered my hoops from Needle In A Haystack and they are wonderful, really like their online shopping option. A wonderful resource!
Peggy S – Dayton
Another great giveaway! My most reaches for tool is my iPad, I’ve started using it for all my patterns!
One of my most-used tools is the ‘Ultimate 3-in-1 Color Tool’ (by Joen Wolfrom). I also have several different types of tweezers which I find handy for so many things. And, lastly, I have a piece of 1/4″ dowel that has a chip out of one end that sees a lot of use. It is worn smooth after many (!!) years of use as an aid when stuffing toys and for poking out corners after turning a piece of fabric. The chipped end is just THE perfect shape for poking out corners and I live in fear that it will ever get broken because I know I would never in a million years be able to duplicate it.
Not sure it could be called a ‘tool’ but is absolutely critical to any successful stitching session for me–a nice cuppa tea! Thanks so much for sponsoring this terrific giveaway Mary–and Happy Holidays to you!
Transfer pencil, for putting design on fabric
I love the BLT (Best Laying Tool) as the most helpful item in my toolbox. Merry Christmas, Mary!
My most-reached-for needlework tool is a pin cushion. I’ve made several and they save me time seaching for the needle ” I just had in my hand a second ago” and is now lost in a pile of threads!
My most reached for tool is my Mellor laying tool as I love my threads to lay flat. Thanks for all of your lovely Christmas giveaways Mary, they are both informative and fun.
I have to have cheater glasses to be able to stitch on the high count linen that I love. Happy Christmas to all. Martha
Unfortunately as I’m growing older, a Needle threader has become a frequently used tool. For embroidery I have a cute little bird shaped one made by Clover and a small metal one I purchased at a quilt show that is as much a work of art as it is a tool.
Needle n’ haystacks is a wonderful shop!
Thank you for the years of service.
I have a small circular rubber disc that is great for helping pull my needle through a tight stitch. It really comes in handy
My most-reached-for needlework tool is my magnifying lamp! I need the lighting and the magnification more and more.
Good morning! I have been a fan for a long time! It would be delightful to win your lovely giveaway, so here’s my favorite needlework tool: for years I thought a needle book would be just another fussy thing on my work table—until I made one as part of a fun project through Craftpod. Now I use it all the time! I love having a handy place to tuck needles, and I’m looking forward to making more!
Thank you for your lovely site and all your wonderful advice, I appreciate you so much! Great blessings, and happy holidays!
Kathy in Gig Harbor, WA
It’s a toss up — my eyes this year have taken a dive, so my new extra strong reading glasses have been my go to — after that it’s a clipboard with a needle minder on the clip. I have to put my stitching in a secure location b/c my cat has an uncanny ability to throw up on projects, but slipping it in and out has lost needles w/a project based needle minder. Having it on the clip board w/my pattern makes it easy to find, and it doesn’t slip away in the shuffle.
My favorite tool for needlework is also essential for my 70 year old eyes…the needle threader!
I love this weeks giveaway! I just bought the Snowflake patterns and would love to have this to make some with!
My favorite tools are my lap and floor stands. I’ve had problems with inflammation in my hands and thumbs so not needing to hold my hoop has been a game changer.
I grew up around a family of hand sewers and I marvel at the inventory I see on this website. My great aunt Chrissy had a shop in Beverly Hills called “Christina Gowns” and at every Oscar show we watched for the hand made dresses the stars were wearing that the shop had made. I will make it to Alameda sometime soon, I hope to see this shop in person.
My most relied on tool are magnifying glasses.
Wow what a wonderful shop. I’ll definitely be back. I guess right now, as I’m learning embroidery, it would have to be my trusty seam ripper!! I especially use it on my practice hoop. So if I don’t like what I’ve done I can REMOVE it!!! Looking forward to perusing your shop online and I’d so love to win some goodies!
I’m always reaching for my embroidery snips. Whether I have to adjust the length of my floss/thread, or snip some fabric, they are always next to my lap frame!
I guess I never used or know about any other tools but thread, scissors,needles, thimble and hoop. Also occasionally thread conditioner. I am curious though. Thanks
My most reached for tool is my needle threader. I use different needle threaders depending on my needle and floss sizes. A close second is my laying tool.
Ha, I think my most reached for “tool” (besides needles and scissors) might be tweezers — to help pull stitches out! 😉
Wow! These give-aways are wonderful. What a fun way to explore new shops and try out new threads, etc. Thank you so much for this opportunity, Mary.
My most reached for tool while stitching would be my scissors.
Just picked up my embroidery again. Would love to win these supplies to add to my stash.
This would be an AWESOME GIFT to RECEIVE ❤
A pincushion, otherwise my needles end up everywhere, except where I can find them… 😉
Hmm … probably my seam ripper with a rubber end for rubbing the small threads away when they are cut out
I love my blue plastic thimble and my cheaters 🙂
My favorite and most-reached-for needlework tool definitely is scroll frame with stand. Both hands are free and frame keeps my canvas straight without those ugly wrinkles.
My tool would be my needle threader, the flat metal kind with a hook on each end.
my favourite tool is my seam ripper! gotta love to frog with a good seam ripper!
dq
My favorite tool is my Clover green needle threader especially when using small eyed needles.
My favourite needlework tool is likely something that holds my fabric taught. I am currently using a QSnap but would love to try the hoop giveaway to see how this compares. Hoping Santa brings a stand. I have my fingers crossed for a Lowery! Thanks for all the work and thought you put into your newsletters, I am learning lots! Helen in Peterborough.
My most-reached-for needlework tool is the trusty needle threader. Humble, but oh so necessary. I love having toys to play with in the nice-to-have category, but as long as I have the basics I’m good to go!
Probably my lay flat tool. Is that what it’s called? It’s what it does. 🙂
Getting on in years, I find that I reach for my battery LED light with magnifying glass along with my other supplies. Keeps my work well lit.
Seam ripper! Because nobody’s perfect…
My most-reached-for needlework tool is my thread organizer; however I have not found a store bought one that works well for me so I fall back on a sturdy piece of cardboard with slits. I look forward to a post from you in the future with your recommendations.
BTW, Your posts really capture my attention and I love taking the time to click on the links you provide to learn more about the subject or company, or price the item you are featuring, or just see what you have to share. Thank you!
This year I’ve been doing mainly goldwork, so my reach for tools are my mellor and beeswax ball, both of which are on ribbons around my neck!
Unfortunately, my favorite and most used needlework tool is a Needle Threader. I wish it were a more elaborate, interesting object, but I wouldn’t need the others if I didn’t have a threader often to even start to sew.
My favorite needlework tools are my magnifier and lighting. Sadly, without them I would not be able to stitch! Love them!
I always use my seat embroidery hoop.
I love finding a good brick and mortar needlework store, they’re so rare! I’ll keep this on my list for a future trip to the bay area, thanks for sharing them with us.
My favorite needlework tool might just be my hand made needle minder given to me by my 9 year old son. He knows I love my needling time and came up with the idea to find me something to accommodate my hobby.
I now have to reach form my clip on magnifiers constantly. But, that’s what happens to your eyes when you survive past 50.
It’s gotta be my hoops… nothing like a hoop to keep my stitches stretched.
Everything looks so lovely! I’d have to say my most reached for tool is a pair of tweezers. I’m a newbie and frequently have to undo my work; tweezers help me pick just the thing that went wrong without ruining the rest
Good morning from Canada. I love to read your page with all the wonderful ideas and tips. As I do as lot of counted canvas work my favorite took is a trolly needle. I stitch on a frame and this type of tool becomes an extention of my finger (or thumb) freeing up both hands so I can use both while stitching and using the trolly to help separate, straighten and lay the thread to showcase its beauty. Happy Holidays to all of you.
Johanna
The tool I reach for most, next to my needle and scissors, is my ruler. My small business making altar linens requires a lot of mitered seams and my ruler is invaluable for measuring accurately the miter and for measuring hems!
Thanks for this opportunity to take part, great fun!
Favorite tool is my Ott light with a magnifier. It has a goose neck so I can steer the light to where I need it.
Karen in Salem
My favorite, most reached for, needlework tool are my cheater +6 glasses. I can’t seem to use any other magnifier with success, and I definitely need help seeing detail stitches. And they’re a lovely shade of purple!
I confess that I use my ‘computer glasses’ with a larger area to focus on the stitching (and no distance vision) plus a hoop all the time when stitching. This is a beautiful gathering of useful items. Thank you.
My favorite tool would have to be my overhead light I use in order to see the fine detail.
I have to have a good light. Can’t make it without my Ott Lights.
My favorite, most reached-for needlework tool, would be my needlework threaders that come in a set of three. The one I use most is the one with the strong, rectangle shaped wire. It’s perfect for threading perle threads.
Thanks so much for the chance to win these awesome kits from NIAH!
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is a Muriel needle threader. It has removed a major source of frustration. Wire threaders were always breaking or pulling out of the holder.
It is easier to use with crewel wool than trying to thread a needle as Mary has shown – and believe me I have tried. So I decided to use it and stop worrying about not threading a needle without equipment especially as I always have it to hand.
I’ve run a long crewel wool thread through the central hole and tied it around the support for the screw tightener of my hoop so it is always handy. It has been the biggest equipment improvement I have made, even more than investing in better hoops and scissors, because I use it whenever I am stitching.
I have to say that my pin cushion is the most needed tool I use. With changing threads and moving the hoop I would surely lose my needles.
After scissors and thread my most reached for tool is my Dublin Craftlite magnifier-light. I started using it while working on a fine silk thread project. After returning to not so fine work, I felt lost without it and realized how much it improves all of my work.
My most useful and favorite tool in my room is my padded portable board for ironing and pinning and cutting. It is a June Taylor cut and press, love it.
Tanya Heidi from Greenville sc
Firstly, congratulations to the Stitch in Turn winners! Aaannd secondly, my most reached for tool after needles and scissors, is probably my needle magnet. These have made such a difference to my stitching routine, keeping my needles safe and handy. I wouldn’t be without them!
My favourite needlework tool is the hand turned stuffing fork my dad made me. It’s a doll needle mounted in a turned wooden handle. The end of the needle is snipped off to create a tiny fork. It’s perfect for stuffing padded felt shapes in stumpwork!
Thanks for offering this drawing! My most used tool is my Needle Necessities floor stand, which I use daily. My next favorite tool, the one I reach for the most, I use when I’m stitching something that uses a lot of colors – my Pako thread organizer. I can keep a lot of needles threaded, so it saves me time.
My favorite Needlework tool(s) are the magnetic needle nannies. I was always losing my needle each time I needed to re-thread or change a color; let the dog out; answer the phone. You get the idea—every interruption I would lay my needle down, but couldn’t find it when I returned. This is rarely a problem since I began to use a needle nannie. I always have one attached to my project and place my needle on it. I just love them.
My favorite needlework tool would have to be my Elan lap stand. I use it for all of my projects and it works like a champ!
Hi Mary. Lovely giveaway! Thanks. I find myself reaching for my telescopic magnet to collect dropped pins and needles before a dog does! But is magnifiers count as tools those are becoming more and more a necessity!
Dale
Hmm. My favorite and most reached for needlework tool? After scissors and needles, it has to be my bone needle. Never used to stitch, of course! It’s my favorite tool for frogging. It is especially wonderful with silk. I learned about this at my LNS
(as local as San Antonio is to Austin!) from another stitcher who was busily frogging. It’s good with cotton floss, also, but not as wonderful as with silk. I’ve often wondered if it’s because they are both protein based. It does double duty as a laying tool as well. Inexpensive and indispensable.
Thanks for doing this fun contest Mary. The gifts are delightful and the anticipation is entertaining at this occasionally stressful time.
Happy stitching!
Katherine
My favorite stitching tool is my seam ripper – I use it as a laying tool, a stitch positioning tool and of course, ripping out stitches!
My favorite thimble is the tool I always reach for right after my needle and scissors. I got in the habit of using one when I was hand quilting and find it helpful for most embroidery also.
My hoop stand would be that tool. I can fit hoops of all shapes and sizes. It allows to work with both hands which is the biggest plus for me.
Marie-Claude
Vancouver, BC Canada
Besides needle and scissors, my favorite needlework tool has to be my magnetic board for holding patterns and marking my progress with magnetic line keepers. Makes life so much easier!
Wow, so awesome to find out this great store is in Alameda, CA. I grew up in Alameda and live 30 minutes from it now. Will definitely have to stop by sometime in the future.
I’m still a newbie to embroidering and would have to say the tool I use the most often is a seam ripper. I do like to sew craft projects on my sewing machine and have a handy seam ripper. It comes in handy when I embroider and my seams are wonky.
Is an ORT container a tool? It’s the item I use most other than needle and scissors, because otherwise I end up with bits of thread everywhere. If that doesn’t qualify as a tool, my answer is a magnet board, to keep track of my place in counted work but also sometimes to mark instructions for the area I’m working on in surface embroidery.
This is a wonderful give-away. I’m just at the point of wanting to experiment with better quality materials and work with better quality tools. This would be perfect.
My favourite tool is a 1 and 7/8″ long needle with a little metal ball on the tip I got in Italy some years back. It is intended for withdrawing threads when working hemstitch or other drawn thread work but I use it for all kinds of things from counting ground threads and marking every tenth one, to substituting a pin when I want to temporarily mark a spot (it never pokes me like a pin!) to basting long lines of thread to even the first pass of double running stitch if it’s a long uninterrupted line. Of course I use it for withdrawing threads too – it’s just the right length to hold comfortably in my hand. I’ve since bought other lengths but this one is just right and remains my favourite even though now it’s slightly bowed from lots of use!
They are called: aghi con pallina or aghi con la punta a pallina if you do a google image search you’re sure to find a picture.
I love my Elbesee lap hoop. Not only can I use it in the standard way but I have also figured out how to place it on my TV table with my laptop sitting on the piece that normally goes under your thigh. I have even used a heavy book. When I embroider I use the standard way and when I do cross stitch I put it up closer using the table top method.
My favorite tool right now is my thimble. I need to find a better one as the one I have keeps slipping off my finger. But I am working on an art quilt and need to push my needle through my fabric. I love Needle in a Haystack. I need a few things and hope to look through her site after the holidays are over…
My most favourite embroidery tool (after scissors and needle) is my padded embroidery frame made by Sue Hawkins in the UK.
Helen of Long Row UK
I can not do without a laying tool. I have several that I use depending on the project and varietly of thread that I’m useing.
The tool I turn to first is a LED magnifying lamp which gives me a good clean light to use while stitching amd magnification to use if I am doing very fine work. I also always prefer to use a hoop or frame for good tension
I can’t live without my Ott light! After a certain point you need all the illumination you can get. It also helps me see colors as they truly are.
I love my needle threader because it saves time and frustration.
My laying tool is always used for embroidery. I like the threads to be smooth.
My favorite tool is my magnetic needle minder, because I can always find my needle. By the way, I agree with your comments regarding Needle in a Haystack, Mary. Their customer service is exceptional!
Thank you for another marvelous Christmas. My most reached for tool is my overhead light with magnifier and the camera and photo library on my I phone. The camera helps me see mistakes that I missed and the photos of the artist’s work if it is a kit or pattern, lets me blow the picture up to see fine detail that you miss in the pictures provided with the pattern.
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is my tablet! I love that I can zoom into patterns on my tablet and I can’t spill on my pattern and ruin it (I keep a waterproof case on it).
My go to embroidery ‘tool’ are my clip on magnifiers, which I keep in a lovely pouch made and embroidered for me by my sister. Why the clip on’s? Because without them I would be unable to do much embroidery; I wouldn’t be able to see what I am doing!
Magnifying glass and lamp, are my third eyes, first my eyes, then glasses, magnifying glass and lamp
What I use the most is a needle threader and thread cutter I have both on a necklace I wear when I’m crafting. I would go through needle threaders like crazy for some reason. I would lose them all the time so I poked a hole in one of those cheap metal ones and hung it next to my thread cutter pendant. Havent lost it. Yet… 🙂
I’m not sure if this qualifies, but I’d have to say my thimble. I’ve used it for many years (since I learned to quilt) and now my hand feels naked without it! Thank you, Mary, for the wonderful blogs that you write!
My favorite is a pencil and pad of graph paper, so that I can sketch out new counted thread designs or note down motif I like for later.
I always reach for my large magnifier with a florescent light. I have the beginnings of macular degeneration and am currently stitching 4 projects on size 40 count to make sure I do those before I cannot see them to stitch.
My laying tool is my most valuable tool, it makes every stitch perfect.
I absolutely always use my magnifier with LED lights. If I didn’t have the magnifier I would not be able to do all the single thread needlepainting that I love to do. Thanks so much for your fun giveaways this season. They are always wonderful.
The needlework tool that I reach for first is my hoop. I’m sure everyone knows the value of a good hoop to keep their linen taut. The hoop can increase positive outcomes by keeping your thread tension constant. Thank you for the chance to win such a lovely prize.
I guess my two most-used tools after scissors and needles are my floss box and my little bright light (one I got via a recommendation in Mary’s blog).
Needle threader
Needle threader
Needle threader
In that order.
Magnifying glasses… I can’t thread a needle without them anymore.
One of my most reached-for items is my Bitsy Bob made by Kelly Stadola (carried in her Etsy shop That’s So Kelly Co). It is a huswife of sorts with two flannel areas. It lays flat next to me on my reclining loveseat and helps keep my stitching supplies from flying all over. I’ve bought a couple of smaller flannel stitching accessories which also help corral my threads.
A Clover Wonder Clip–the red one–is my favorite tool. As my fingers get a bit older, it can cause sore finger joints holding my English Paper Pieces. So this little gem holds the pieces very firmly together and I can lightly hold them as I stitch. Not fancy, but oh so useful!
My most reached for tool is my phone. I use it to look up stitches, video tutorials, and read up on great embroidery books. I have learned so much by researching embroidery on my phone!
Ren (from NM)
My favorite needlework tool has to be my Ott light. I always use it.
my favorite reach for tool is a Needle Minder. I’m forever losing my needle even if its just for a second to reach for a more embroidery thread. it’ll fall between my legs or lose it on the couch, or even be hanging on my shirt, ect ect. so i do keep my needle minders very close at hand. i make sure i have one attached on my Embroidery Hoop.
thank you
ghill
Favorite tool is actually a toss up between magnifiers and needle threader – if I have to choose one I’d say magnifiers as those help with stitching and threading.
I find myself using pliers alot. When trying to get the needle through multiple layers of fabric or if its threaded with some metal I use the pliers coz I find it difficult to get it through otherwise. Probably a terrible a thing to do but works for me.
The hoops look great. I’m ready for a new hoop and a new project using a nice new needle. Sharon H of Fl
I love my magnifying glasses. It helps me see the small fabric
What generous offerings – thank you!
Mary in MN
My favorite tool is my lap desktop with gives me a level surface to stitch on while sitting in my recliner.
Thank you for another wonderful giveaway, that Bohin needle set looks fantastic! My favourite tool is my needle threader – the LoRan hooked kind for tapestry needles and the little coin threaders for fine needles, strengthened with a drop of gorilla glue 🙂
My homely trolley needle! I keep meaning to try a prettier laying tool, but for now, this works.
Hm, I use my trusty thimble a lot! My current project doesn’t require a thimble, though. It does require a needle keep, which I’ve never used before. I really like it! It has a magnet and sticks right to the corner of my work, our of the way but very handy. Mine is green (my favorite color) with a maple leaf on it.
Besides needles, threads, and scissors, the next go to tool are my hoops especially the free standing one that holds the hoop and makes it easier for me to work on larger projects.
I really want to win, but I like your website better!
My needle threader! I prefer to thread by hand, but I’m often using a thread/needle combination that demands a threader. And I finally found a sturdy kind that doesn’t break right away, like the cheap metal ones: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0738D18QW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I think my bright light is what I reach for most. It reduces eye strain and makes it possible to stitch for longer periods of time. Thanks for this give-away opportunity!
I have a favorite hoop that I use whenever I can. I don’t even remember where it came from but I believe it may be German. It holds my linen very well and is pretty lightweight so it is my go to holder.
Needles! In all lengths and eyes because of the variety of yarn and fabric I use. This is such a thoughtfully curated set…thank you for the opportunity to win.
Thanks for the giveaway! My favorite tool is my mighty brite light which I use to focus on my embroidery to help me stitch precisely!
My most favorite tool is my needleminder. I have a small collection starting! Helps me know where my needle is at all times!
Any 1 of my MANY pincushions!!
I have them scattered all around the house, one is next to each location I might sit to do needlework
My favorite tool is a needlebook that I made years ago. I can keep different needles loaded with different threads all in the needlebook.
My most essential tool is my floor lamp.
Hello…I’m Tanya from Arkansas. Laying tools are one of my frequently used tools. Keeping silk threads smooth such as when doing Bargello work on needlepoint is one reason why!!
My favourite tool I reach for a lot is a Susan Bates hoop. I have several different sizes on hand so that I can have more than one project on the go without disturbing the others.
I have to have Pako needle organizers — it is irritating to have to stop stitching and rethread a needle all the time. Using a needle organizer, I can have lots of needles prethreaded and readily at hand so I can stitch for long stretches of time. Happiness!
I can’t work without my magnifying clip on glasses! They flip up and down as needed and give me the right amount of magnification so I don’t have to strain my eyes. Thanks, Marty
Tie between magnification glasses and good bright lights. Thank goodness having young eyes and working only in bright sunlight are no longer requirements.
My favorite tool is my floor lamp and magnifier!! Sigh to get old and have the eyes reflect their age. I know I am in trouble when I get to using to plastic canvas.
My favorite tool is my hoop. I can’t manage wihout one
My Ott lights – I’d be lost with them!
Without a doubt it’s my thimble! I might try to get by without it, but if I’m stitching for more than just a few stitches, I must have it on!
Kathy L
Southlake, Tx
That has to be a hoop as I do gold embroidery, stumpwork but also quilting. Without a hoop I can’t get things neat
Well, if you mean besides my glasses which are the first thing I need before starting to stitch cuz I can’t see anything without them to stitch (well almost anyway), the next thing I get is my laying tool of which I have several, and I choose the one I want depending on which project I am working on, and how much hand freedom I will have.
As an aside, I also have ordered from Haystack multiple times in the past and have always found them to be very helpful as well.
My favorite and most utilized tool has to be my wooden embroidery hoop. My mother gave it to me when I was a just learning how to do cross-stitch as a child, so whenever I use it, I am reminded of her.
Though new to me this year I have developed a great need for my NEEDLE THREADER. Last year I quit using saliva to assist with threading. Now my needle threader, a delicate hook device, is laid out with my tiny scissors when stitching begins. It has saved me a great deal of stress & time with a task needing more attention as threads grow shorter. This recommended needle threader was well worth what seemed, at the time, like an expensive price.
I really enjoy following all your posts projects etc
I love my little tape measure cover- its a house! And the flower by the door is really the pull, the upper window is a pincushion! And best of all my friend Beth made it for me!
I couldn’t do anything without my embroidery hoop!
I love an X-acto knife. When I need to pull more than 2 stitches I use the knife and don’t get enlarged holes in my fabric.
Next to my needles and my scissors I love my magnetic needle minder. It works and it’s easy to take with me.
Do glasses count? If so, definitely my prescription reading glasses which aren’t reading glasses at all but much stronger and made up especially for my needlework. If not, then my various stands/clamps. I started out as a confirmed hoop-in-hand holder, but as my projects are getting bigger I really appreciate my Lowery floor stand, Aristo lap stand, Sonata seat frame and anonymous table clamp. Do I have to pick just one? In that case the Lowery because although it isn’t very portable, it will hold absolutely anything!
Laying tool – I have a great twist when I stitch. The laying tool smooths out the threads for a better finish
My favourite tool is my embroidered needle-book. It was the first item I had embroidered and then constructed, and I was amazed to see when it was finished, that thanks to my tutor’s excellent teaching, it looked, to my eyes, as good as hers! I was so proud!
My coloured threads. I love colour!
Besides my scissors and needle, an Ott Light task lamp is my favorite helper for needlework.
I love to stitch & now have more time for it in retirement,so I sure would love to win something lovely to start in the New year.
My most reached for tool – beyond scissors and needles – is a lighted magnifier. I’m developing cataracts and sometimes need a little extra help to see the pattern or to see the weave in the fabric, especially if I’m working on rather fine linen.
This would be a stitchers dream to win.
I don’t know that I have a favorite needlework tool, outside of maybe my q snaps. I know a lot of people don’t like like them, but I don’t have a dedicated stitching space, move a lot, and stitch in weird places. Q snaps are a lifesaver in this situation. I also use some nice beechwood hoops I found in London on a trip, but when I reach for my project, it’s got the needle, scissors, thread, fabric, and q snaps.
I have a magnetic needle-minder that my mother used; it’s large enough for plenty of needles and it makes me happy to use it. I can keep a few needles at hand, threaded and ready to use – and I think of her every time I pick it up. Sweet memories of much handwork!
My favourite needlework tool are my CraftOptics glasses. They are allowing me to see clearly again and regain my enjoyment in all things stitching!
My most reached for tool is my case of most used tools! I keep those all together in one case, so it is easy to grab it and go!
My favorite tool is a large tapestry needle with a beaded fob attached. I use it for frogging, laying, enlarging thread holes. It sits in a pin cushion and travels really well.
It was a gift I didn’t know I needed! Now it is always with me and now I make ones as gifts for all my needleworking friends.
Darcy
I love the beautiful linens and supplies.
Lately, my most relied upon tool has been my seam ripper. Live and learn I guess!
My most reached for tool is my needle threader. I have one of the good kind (solid metal, not wire)–with a small hook on one end and a larger one on the other. I have a hand tremor, so sometimes threading a needle is the hardest part of stitching, even if the needle is the perfect size for the thread.
My favorite tool is my lap frame and floor stand frame.
After needles and a special pair of scissors, the tool I reach for most frequently is my handmade needlebook…it keeps the assortment of needles that I use together in one place, safe from being dropped or played with by cats.
My favorite tool is my OmniGrid Project bag. It’s portable, and it allows me to keep all of my projects and tools together me wherever I go.
My vision isn’t what it used to be, so I’m afraid my most used and needed embroidery tool is a pair of cheater glasses. I must have about 20 different pairs all over the house and at work (I teach sewing among other things). While I find it bothersome to use them, I would much rather do that than give up my stitching. That is not an option!
I am not sure you would call it a tool but I love to stitch using my Dazor light. It gives the best light AND I really can use the magnification.
The Inspirations magazine is like a bible to anyone who stitches The variety of projects using all types of stitches will keep anyone busy for the rest of their life.
My favourite needlework tool is my beautiful handmade wooden laying tool.
I use it so often to lay my threads even when I am cross stitching. It helps the work look even.
My needle magnet! I am famous for losing needles! I have a number of needle magnets that I use whether embroidering, counted canvas stitching, or needlepointing.
One of my favorites is in the shape of an angel. My needle angel holds three needles comfortably.
I reach for my magnifying glasses because I need them more and more as I age. They have extended my stitching life I am sure, as well as improving the quality of my work.
These days my most often reached for tool is my Dazor magnifying light that I’ve had for over 30 years! For many of those I only used it for the light, but since developing a serious eye condition, the magnifier has become my new best friend for stitching.
My favorite, most reached for tool is my needle threader. At my age, it is now a necessity if I want to keep stitching. A close second is my supply of wooden clothespins, which I used to store embroidery thread on. They’re inexpensive and work very well for that purpose.
My favorite needlework tool after my Stork Scissors and needles is the LoRan Needle Threader. The small end of this threader is what I use most often for 2-4 strands of DMC. The wire threaders always break on me but this LoRan Needle Threader is fantastic. I wish it was magnetic or even had a small magnet glued the the back of it as I’m always dropping it. But nevertheless it works extremely well. I can find it better since I’ve put a few threads through the hole and tied a knot for a loop. I really could use a great 5″ hoop. Suzy C from Decatur, GA.
I like Sew Fine Thread Gloss for conditioning my thread. It’s all natural beeswax and comes in lovely scents that are enjoyable to me while stitching!
My favorite needlework tool is my Tekobari – I use it constantly, not only for laying thread, but also for “unstitching” (ha ha!).
I’m gobsmacked! Issue 90 Just Imagine. I cannot conceive of embroidering that realistic looking corn, or even how it was done! And the gold work bee on the side was equally compelling. Skill to aspire to.
I’m new to stitching and I was just happy to see there is a store near me. Looking foreward to stopping in.
susie
I love a good pair of scissors and collect lots of different models and sizes!
Oh Mary, you temptress. Look at these goodies!!
My favourite tool that I grab every time I try to do any stitching is really an assembly. It’s one of those ‘mint’ boxes, with at least two types of needle threaders (the regular wire ones and the metal hook ones) and a few rare earth magnets. My needles are stuck to the magnets and are easy to pick up this way. If I’m being clever I have a stand alone needle minder in there as well. Plus one of those thread cutters from DMC. (My scissors won’t fit). It all fits in to whatever other container I carry with me, and keeps the bits to hand.
All that said, there can never be enough fun things to play with in this art!
Pick me?
Dorothyanne
My favorite tool is my seam ripper. Because sometimes I make mistakes.
My favorite needlework item is my handy blue/purple water soluble pen. I love how cleanly it washes out and how easy it is for my to change a design! And if my two year-old finds it, I don’t have to worry about her ruining her clothes 🙂
I think my most frequently reached for tool is not so much really an embroidery tool at all. I love to listen to books while I stitch and in a house with three kids I often reach for my earbuds to enjoy a few minute of happy quiet. Often these days I’m lucky to get in 15 minutes at a time, but the break is amazing!
My favorite go-to are my magnifying glasses. I can’t stitch without them and they make the work so much easier and enjoyable. No more squinting!
Definitely magnification! Gotta reach for my glasses…
Lately my favorite tool is a fine-gauge needle threader from Needle in a Haystack. I never used threaders before, but my eyes have changed. It saves so much time and mental focus, and the fine gauge works for 2 strands DMC in a #28 needle.
When appliqueing, I look for a cuticle pusher to turn the edges under. When embroidering, I teach for my thimble!
I like using my bright light that goes around my neck. It really helps me see better.
When appliqueing, I look for a cuticle pusher to turn the edges under. When embroidering, I reach for my thimble!
The first thing that popped in my mind was my embroidery stand – it has wheels on the far edge so I am always “reaching for it” to pull it up close when I sit down to work.
I bought a Mark 2 from Hearthside as a retirement gift to myself and actually didn’t use it right away. Now I’ve got a larger project on the go and am absolutely loving it.
My most reached for tool is my laying tool. I use it all of the time and if I am flying and don’t have it with me I find I really miss it.
After my needle and threads it has to be either my good light and my clip on glasses. Both are needed as we age but dont want to stop stitching the fine linens and canvas projects.
My favorite needlework tool is:
Judith Baker Montano’s Embroidery & Crazy Quilt Stitch tool.
I am a crazy quilter and sometimes I need a refresher on how to do a particular embroidery or silk ribbon stitch. It is a flip book that stands up and has good directions for the stitches.
My favourite go to tool is my Artist Loft circle template. I do applique so over the years I have made thousands of circles for berries, flower centres, and motifs. I would love to add this collection of goodies to my studio.
I just made a thread keeper (a ByAnnie pattern) which has 5 clear zipped pockets. Each pocket is topped with a strip of ultra suede. You thread each spool of thread, insert the needle through the ultra suede, and then remove the needle, leaving a short tail of thread hanging. When you need thread, just pull the tail and cut the length you need without having to remove the spools. Also holds any tools you need for embroidery or applique. I love my bag!!
Aside from needles and scissors, I am constantly using my magnetic needle minders. It helps me easily keep my needles where I need them while I’m switching colors or just need to put my hoop down. I also like to store my needles on the back of the work on my needle minders when I’m still stitching a project but not ready to unhoop it.
My current favorite tool is my needle minder’s because I’m busy and can easily forget where I put my needle down. The minder makes it easy to find and safe so it doen’t end up the chair or sofa!
Definitely my Ott light. As I get older, I definitely need more light. Also magnification.
While they may not have originally been meant as needlework tools; my reader/magnifying glasses and a really good light source. Can’t do needlework without them anymore.
Probably the star detailer. You want to get that last stitch in and the thread is too short for the needle to anchor it so you use star detailer.
My favorite tool would be a project bag. I like the mesh kind because you can see what’s inside. I would be totally unorganized with them.
My favorite stitching tool is a pair of little, inexpensive tweezers with fine points that I picked up in the cosmetic corner of the store. I use them to pick out the cat hairs that always seem to migrate to whatever I’m stitching, to grab little bits of fluff, fur, thread or whatever that I don’t want to stitch into my project, or to slide through a loop of thread I need to untangle when my fingers can’t manage. They’re handy and I tend to panic when I need them and can’t immediately find them. Thus I also try to keep them attach to a little bottle cap magnet that sits close by. But, of course, being human, I don’t always manage to get them on the cap and when I don’t the big hunt is immediately on. Luckily, so far, I’ve always been able to find them.
Hello Mary,
I have three tools that I can not do without them. My magnifier glasses, a portable table lamp and either a hoop or snap frame.
I would like to thank you for introducing us (the embroiders) these excellent suppliers.
Would love to win this! I love embroidery and other hand sewing
I reach the most for my needle threaders. I don’t even try to thread a needle without one. Amazon had 50 for $5. Money well spent.
Hairspray is my favorite embroidery tool. I am newly returned to embroidery and I find that wasting time trying to thread an un co-operative needle drives me crazy. The hairspray trick solves that problem. Now I just have to practice, practice , practice.
Sharon St P
My most-reached for needlework tool is my tape measure – I use it daily almost to be sure I have sufficient fabric for my project!
My Favourite, most reached for needlework tool, are my tweezers, used when pulling out mistakes.
My Favourite, most reached for needlework tool, is my head lamp.
Lol! My most-reached for needlework tool (after my trust crane scissors) is, sadly, my seam ripper!!! Always trying to get it perfect and ripping it out to try a section again!
Does a light count as a tool? The older my eyes get, the more the bright light and the magnifier are necessary. Both my daughter and I have the Craftlite Dublin. Her light is holding up fine, but the join between the stand and the neck broke on mine. 🙁 I kind of have it cobbled together, but if anyone has any suggestions on how to fix or a better light, I’ll take ’em!
My favorite needlework tool would be my Hardwicke Manor hoops. I have many in different sizes and depth. I like them as my hands sweat a lot, and with the wooden hoops, my hands do not slip.
The kit is lovely. I’m so excited. I’m real picky about my hoop. I have multiple ones and it needs to fit my project the way I like it.
My favorite embroidery tool is of course my embroidery hoop. I have many of different sizes and I can not embroider without any.
thanks for the giveaway. I hope I’ll win !
Anne-Marie (from France)
my tool used most often is my laying tool. i love the look of the thread when it lays properly.
thanks.
Hmmm…lately I’ve been grabbing my “frogger” since I don’t seem to be able to count my counted work very well these days!
I go to my very pointy tweezers, great for plucking out misplaced stitches. I am relativity new to surface embroidery and I pull out more than I leave in.
My most reached for tool in sewing is my stiletto. Its nice little point holds things, moves things, helps with ‘reverse stitching and other things that should not be and, of course, makes holes of all different sizes. It also gets used in my multi media work.
I have a pair of stork tweezers. I love them for withdrawing fabric threads when I am doing Hardanger or any other Drawn thread work. They are much better than finger nails. Thanks
my favorite tool is the Awl for broderie anglaise and small buttons to draw the circles
I just love this shop! They have great service and wonderful inventory. They also sell small skeins of floche so you don’t have to buy a great big hunk of the stuff. I hope I win the Christmas draw and will watch the result with excitement. Cheers, Anne
My magnifying light is my tool I reach for the most. It helps me see my pattern and also my project fabric – linen or canvas.
My “cheaters”, i.e., magnifying glasses. They allow me to still work on the high count fabrics I love.
My favorite reached for tool is my needleminder. Having a strong magnet in hand is so helpful for all sorts of things.
I most often reach for my magnet. I have a habit of dropping my needle
Thanks Mary and thank you Cathe.
Mary this was a great idea because now I can make a list of stores, brick and mortar and online, of reputable needlework shops. Thank you!
Rose
My most reached for tool would be my Ott-lite, and quite often my magnifier if I’m working on a higher count of linen. My eyes aren’t as good as they used to be, and these tools let me continue to enjoy needlework.
Issue 89’s cover caught my eye with one of the fabulous flowers for which the issue is titled. Upon perusing the contents of this issue, I really loved the beautiful Flowers of the Underwater Sea stitched with filament silk and metallics. As a subscriber to Inspirations, I have enjoyed many hours admiring amazing needle arts.
The tool I most often use besides needle and scissors would be the magnifying glass I wear around my neck. The one that gives me the most pleasure is my Hardwicke Manor embroidery hoop. I’m still pretty much a novice embroiderer, but holding that hoop makes me feel like Somebody.
Thank you for the chance to win some wonderful embroidery goodies!
Pincushion(s). Love making them and I have several. My intention was to make them and sell them, so far I haven’t sold any, but I’ve made them as gifts for friends and family. Really like using embroidered monogram letters for the top.
I don’t have. A website. My email address is bettyochoa0910@ gmail.com. I’m crossing my fingers! Thank u
I love my magnifier glasses. I purchased some cheap magnifier glasses from the shelf to use before I was quite ready to get glasses. One day, after I had my prescription glasses I suddenly had an ‘ah-ha’ moment; those old magnifier glasses work perfectly over top of my regular glasses. They bring my stitching into sharper focus and they are always right there, at the right angle, in front of my work!
So many wonderful gifts! How does one pick only one☺️
great giveaways, thans for the chance to win.
~Ginny K.~
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is the stiletto I bought from Tanja Berlin. I use it not only as a laying tool, but also as a burnishing tool, to enlarge the holes in canvas to make eyelets, and to untangle the snarls that somehow form in the floss occasionally on the backside of the stitching project.
Now that I’m 65, it has to be my magnifier for fine work. I think the why is self explanatory 🙂
My needle minder has to be my most favorite tool. Never lose a needle again.
My tweezers. I do a lot of away waste knots and these help out a ton in lifting up the knot enough to cut it off.
Dear Mary,
Thank you for your wonderful A Stitcher’s Christmas give-aways. It is fun to play the game of submitting an entry and to find out about what is available out there for the passionate hand embroiderer.
My most reached for favourite tool is…… a pair of small pliers. I know that the needle with thread is supposed to easily go through the fabric if all are the correct size, but often a bit of extra help is required.
My quick unpick (seam ripper) gets used quite a bit so that would have to be my favourite tool. Unpicking is not my favourite thing to do but when it is done I am happy.
I always keep a small screwdriver with my stitching tools. It helps to tighten my hoops and keep the fabric drum tight!
I use a little 6″ ruler to position items or to determine where not to position items I’m placing.
needlestack.com is a wonderful resource! Besides my needle(s) and scissors, my favorite tool is my Blue Max floor lamp so I can see where my needle is going, and a bright teal lunch tray that keeps my needlework tools handy.
Hi Mary – Never knew what a laying tool was until I joined a cross-stitch group. Love that it helps the stitches lay so flat and gives the floss or wool a lovely sheen. Thanks for all your website!
My favorite tool is a good measuring tape (love all the crocheted ones) for accuracy.
The tool I find myself reaching for as soon as I reach for my needle is my needle threader. Even with reading glasses I find that as I older this is one of my bigger challenges.
That would definitely be my Puffins Needle Threader. It’s a little bird.
Issue 102. Always wanted to try wool embroidery.
My gold plated curved tweezers. I misplaced them recently and couldn’t function! I use them as a laying tool, if I just need one a few times and I can’t be bothered to get up and fetch my actual laying tool, they’re great if I ‘m trying to lasso a short end, for picking up beads or goldwork threads to avoid handling, and are useful for a good number of other jobs.
I always set up my Ott light and magnifier before I start stitching, so these would be my favourite tools. Next would be my hoops.
My favorite needlework tool besides scissors and needles is my full spectrum magnifying light. Even if I don’t needit to embroider, I need it to thread fine needles such as those for beading. It also helps me pick colors and do fine embroidery such as goldwork. thank you Mary
My favourite tool is my book of embroidery stitches every project I do I consult my book.
It would have to be my magnifying glasses, there is no way I could do any embroidery any more with out them LOL
Cheers Di
My Star Detailer! I have several so I can keep one in various projects.
My magnifier first and then a coloured pencil to mark off my charts…….lost without them
My favorite tool is my stainless steel thimble to protect my finger as I sew. I bought it years ago but I’ve never had to replace it.
The tool I reach for second most is a pair of tweezers. At times small fibers will “fray?” leaving little tiny wisps of thread behind. I found that a good pair of tweezers helps me to remove those little tiny pieces easily and without disturbing my needlework.
My best stitching tool is the magnifier that clips onto my reading glasses. Using this makes all the difference. With the magnifier in place, I can see. It’s easier to place and form each stitch, making embroidery a pleasure instead of a struggle.
Deciding which is my favourite stitching tool is a toss up between an embroidery hoop and a laying tool. Using a hoop I discovered that I can actually produce a reasonable satin stitch. Using a laying tool, however, took my satin stitching and my thread painting to the next level!
So there it is, my favourite, most-reached-for needlework tool is my laying tool!
I recently purchased a magnifier and just love it.
I guess my most reached for tool would be one of my stitch books as Im still new and am always checking how to make certain stitches
The 3rd most important tool in my arsenal is my Cheaters. Can’t stitch if I can’t see 😉
My favorite tool is my BlueMax stand lamp! Without good lighting I just can’t see to embroider! Thanks for the opportunity to get these goodies! I love Needle in a Haystack!
My most used embroidery tool (after needles and scissors) are the silicon finger grips I got from Bohin. It makes pulling a needle through multiple layers so much easier.
Thank you for the giveaway!
My most favorite tool to reach for is my embroidery hoop. It holds my fabric taught so my stitches and tension are even. My magnifier light comes in a close second since I can’t see what I’m stitching clearly without it.
Next to my scissors and needles, my favorite needlework tool is my needle book. It has examples of various embroidery stitches and threads as well as places to keep an assortment of needles and scissors. It also has pockets that I can tuck in a small pattern or picture of what I am working on.
I collect scissors so they are my favorite item but lately having some eye issues, I have to say that my needle threader has saved me frustration many times. I am currently stitching 12 barns in variegated brown thread. They will be on a quilt some day! Thank you!
Let there be light! The MOST important tool for my embroidery is my task lamp. Without good lighting I have wonky stitches, lumps, bumps and things to rip out.
Light, and more light!!!
My go-to tool is my carrying case for my embroidery work. It’s fairly large, twelve inches square, and one and a hof inches deep. so a piece can lay flat. It can hold all I need for my project — thread, scissors, hoop, needles, and patterns. Going to get-togethers is easy with my carrying case because I have everything I need.
My favorite tool, my magnify lite, as I developed Graves disease and it greatly hampers my vision and I am eternally grateful for the bright lit magnification.
Hi , my favorite tool is my lovely wooden stitch ripper!
My favorite tool for my needle work are my hoops, keeps my material tight for a neater stitch.
Sadly either my scissors or seam ripper. I stitch then am not happy and RIP it out. The frog method ripit, ripit, ripit!
My favorite, and a must for me, needlework tool is my Mageyes Magnifier headset. Before I pick up a needle, I always always put these on my head first. They are lightweight, most comfortable and very convenient moving lenses up and down in front of my rx glasses when needed. I would not be without these ever. Great for splinter removal too!! 🙂
My beaded ebony laying tool. I love to admire it and to use it.
My most reached for tool is probably my magnifying lamp, but it should be my ort container! I am constantly sticking my orts on the front of my shirt, and then I have to get out the lint brush!! Thanks for such a fun and thoughtful Christmas giveaway.
Liz from northern Wisconsin
The threaded Needle keeper,with symbols noted for the colors in theproject,is a great help in managing and maintaining order.
I’m not sure if it completely counts, but my most reached for tool is a good travel light that I can clip to my frame. Darkness will not stop me!
I do not know if I can call this tool, but the most useful thing for me these days is wax. I wax the end of silk and this makes my stitching easier and more comfortable.
One of my favorite tools in doing needlework is my needle minder. I have made many and given them as gifts. In fact my needlework group will each receive one with their Christmas cards. It would be a wonderful birthday gift 12/13/41) to receive this giveaway.
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is my mini cross stitch embroidery scroll frame. The whole thing is about 4X6 inches and fits all kinds of small cross stitch projects. I even purchased a 1/4 inch dowel to make a little bit longer bars.
My most important tool is a magnifying lamp.
I barely own any needlework tools, apart from tweezers, an eraser, a measuring tape, pins, a simple magnet … does carbon paper count? Or an iron-on pencil? I couldn’t name a favourite of mine. But if it is about my most-reached-for needlework tool, it is definitely the screwdriver. LOL You know what we need it for, don’t you. 😉 For a really taut fabric, of course, and I love really taut fabric. 🙂
My most reached for “tool” would be all of my wonderful books/magazines and of course your website Miss Mary! Why? Because not only are they my source of knowledge they also give me inspiration and insight to the master of needle work. I enjoy the smell of each different book and the attention to detail each author pours into every page. I’d be lost without my books, magazines and surly without your amazing website Mary. You rock!
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool is a six or seven-inch plastic hoop. I’m not sure of the manufacturer, but I really like the lip on the inner hoop – it holds the fabric well.
I guess my readers specs would have to be next after needles and scissors, because they allow me to continue to do the work I love.
Needle threader is a must have for these old eyes. That you for the giveaway and enjoy you website.
My most reached for tool after needle and scissors is a hoop, closely followed by the phone for looking up stitching instructions!
What is your favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool (besides your needle or scissors), and why?
My glasses and Ott light – can’t do needlework without them.
My go to is wax for taming threads.
My go- to tool is a thimble I have one given to me by my Mother so when I use it I feel she is sewing with me.
I’d have to say that my most reached-for needlework tool are my needleminders. I have them on my projects, on my stitching light and even on the fridge…yes I have needleminders WITH needles hanging on my fridge.
This is great prize package – they all are, but this one is one of my favourites…it’s so newbie-friendly.
My favorite go to tool is my laying tool, a Worlds Best Laying tool. I use it for laying threads, counting, frogging, picking out cat hairs from my work. With its needle shapped tip it is the most usefull thing I own.
Hi Mary,
I have been following you for about a year now, I am so excited to find that hand embroidery is alive and well out there. I remember sitting in a high chair with a hoop and needle, I am now passing this art onto my daughter and her daughter. It is very exciting.
The tool I find that I reach for most is a good hoop, which in my area is hard to find in real life. I buy them and stick them in drawers because they don’t fit well together, and then try to find another. So far I have been reticent to try any online shops, I really prefer to touch and hold the things I purchase, but I am learning to trust. I would definitely trust your recommendations…
Cordially,
Sally Ann Walser
I am getting so excited about finding out about all of these wonderful resources and location of supplies that are easily available on line. For a newbie to embroidery it is a veritable treasure trove
Ohhhhh what a great giveaway!
My favorite, most-reached-for needlework tool are my magnifying glasses, because apparently my eyes don’t think I am as young as I feel 🙂
My most reached for needlework tool is my hands free magnifying necklace. Can’t do without it!
i think the needlework tool I appreciate most and use often if my magnifier/lamp.It has a flexible mount so that I can bring it closer to my work for a clear picture of tiny stitches.
My pouches I keep each project in. I purchased them from Amazon and love them. They are big enough for my pattern also.
Susan U. in Houston finds a renewed interest in embroidery helps focus the mind!
My laying tool. Once I learned to use one I found that I needed it nearby for all kinds of stitching. It certainly helps my stitches look neat.
Thanks Mary for your interesting newsletter and website. I really enjoy your articles.
Bees wax which I use to smooth and condition my threads 🙂 Especially the metallic.
My combination light/magnifier–so I can see to use my needles & scissors!!
This looks amazing. My favourite tools are my beading tray, my lamp and my laying tool. Jane C. NZ
Ohhh my favourite go-to tool would have to be my tweezers… great for getting that tiny bit of frayed fabric out of the way, or for catching the end of the thread to tie a knot in it when I’ve stitched too close to the end and don’t have enough left to tie the knot easily!!
Hi Mary,
my favourite needlework tool would have to be my laying tool. Mine is a simple metal awl with a plastic handle, one day I will upgrade. Useful for poking and prodding, I can guarantee if I have not set it out on my work space, I will end up needing it.
Merry Christmas,
Melissa from Adelaide
My current most reached for needlework tool is a 1.15 mm crochet hook, because it is perfect for pulling out cut threads in my hardanger work.
The #4 give away looks really wonderful. Can’t have enough needles.
My most reached for needlework tool is a vintage goose neck lamp. It was given to me by my oldest sister. The lamp was originally owned by her significant other who used it for fly tieing. He was an avid outdoorsman and sadly we lost him 20 years ago when he fell through lake ice during an unexpected snowstorm. I was pretty close to him as well and think about him daily so the lamp is pretty special to me.
Karen P. Halifax, NS
I always have my Ott light with me. The light helps me see my work with a lot less mistakes. A good light is a must!
My favourite tool is the adjustable oak needlework stand that my husband made for me.
My most used tool is my telescoping magnet (sigh) The time it saves me makes it my favorite
I’m rather a newbie so I guess my go to item would be my little needle book. I make an effort of always putting my needle back in it for next time.
Not a tool, but I seldom do embroidery without the support of The Left-Handed Embroider’s Companion, by Yvette Stanton. A must have if you are a left-handed stitcher.
I’m not sure what it’s called, but I have something that resembles a long, relatively thick needle—pointy at one end but with no eye, perhaps 3-4 inches long. The pointy end is apparently rough—almost like a fine, good quality fingernail file. It’s for pulling stay bits of fiber to the back—say, if you were doing needlepoint and had little loose bits of your yarn that were threatening to get caught up in a nearby color. You stab down into the loose bits in a suitable spot and pull through—the rough part catches and pulls the fiber bits along (but isn’t so rough as to damage the fabric or fibers). I particularly love the efficiency—instead of trying to poke things through (and often failing), this usually works on the first try. I have also used this for other kinds of embroidery.
My favorite go-to tool is my needle threader. I love it for some of the more slippery, cantankerous threads that can’t be coaxed through a needle’s eye.
I love a really good hoop or frame!
The thing that I grab for most is my cheaters. I know, boring. But, I use them a lot when stitching. Getting old sucks but I also happen to like stitching that is more delicate.
More tools would be a Christmas dream come true.
Pat R.
The tool that I really can’t do without is my B.L.T. It really is the best laying tool ever. It also opens holes for eyelets, all the while feeling like steel silk in my hand.
Thanks so much, Mary, for another great Christmas giveaway!
My next favourite tool would be my lovely turned laying tool; it makes the multiple strands used in counted canvas work lay beautifully flat giving almost a ribbon effect, and it’s very pleasant to hold in the hand.
Next would be long-enough ort. I use them as a needle threader in tight situations, e.g. when I’m finishing off a bit-too-short thread on the back. You thread the needle with both ends of the art (so you have a loop), feed the needle under the stitches, then catch the working thread with the loop and pull it through the eye, voila! The best thing is that you always have orts around.
I reach for my hoop. I can’t stitch well without one.
My scissors. After two cheap pairs that drove me crazy, I splurged on a decent pair (recommended on this site) and now every snip is a pleasure.
One of my favorite tools is a pin cushion so I don’t lose my needles or leave them in the arm of a chair.
I made a couple of cosmetic clutches in 2 different sizes so it is easy to take a project with me. The bright colors make me happy.
My favourite needlework tool would be my needle minder. It’s so helpful when I am using multiple needles of different coloured threads at the same time. As well as helping me to not lose my needles!
Thank you for hosting these amazing give-aways.
Merry Christmas!
My go to implement is my thimble! I can’t sew without it. By “it” I mean whichever one of my several antique silver thimbles I have packed with the piece that I’m working on, which is kept in an appropriate needlework folder or box!
My little etui. I love to make and carry these little accessory folders—-a great excuse to decorate a useful item with more embroidery!
My 4 inch hoop is my go-to tool. Nicely bound with bias tape and fits my hand so well. I take it everywhere!
thanks Mary!
You can never have enough goodies!