Start Small If Just Getting Back Into Needlecraft

Often people will tell us that they used to be avid needlecrafters but haven’t been active for a number of years. Why? The reasons vary. Some have become busy with work and family obligations. Some haven’t been happy with the results of their work. Occasionally they just haven’t had the skills to complete a piece or are daunted by large projects. If you recognize yourself as one of these people, we have a few suggestions that may help you.

Begin small. Taking the time to complete a hat, socks or other small project may give you the momentum to move on to another project. The bear outfits in today’s column would be an ideal quick project.

Make a gift. It is rewarding to make something for another person. Using your time shows an extra special caring that can’t be measured.

Look for simple patterns. Even if you were once an experienced needlecrafter, you may find it more successful to begin working on something that is easy. Once you have completed an easy pattern or two, you’ll find that many skills you thought you had forgotten will come back to you.

Take a class. A local shop, an adult education class or seminar can help update you or expand on your skills.

Join a group. Belonging to a guild or just crafting with a group of friends is an ideal way to get you going. In a group setting, someone with more knowledge can help you with techniques that may seem puzzling. Groups are a good place to see new materials, tools and patterns, and you’ll enjoy discussions with others who have the same interests.

Update your tools. If your needles and hooks are old and battered, you may not enjoy working with them. The range of needle and hook types available these days is extensive. You can get them in plastic, metal, coated metal and wood. There are even special easy-grip crochet hooks that are ideal for people who have arthritis. Many supplies are available through mail-order sources.

Like your materials. Look at some of the new fibers in today’s market. The acrylic fibers keep getting better. The lovely variegated and hand-dyed yarns make needlecrafting fun. Check out the superwash wools. For nice fibers and easy care, you can’t beat them.

Take the time. Crafting can be an enjoyable meditative hobby. Recent studies by the American Home Sewing Association confirm that sewing reduces stress. We think any needlecraft has the same effect.

All of these suggestions are good starts in resuming needlecrafting. It will be like finding an old treasured friend.

Speaking of old treasured friends, take a look at the adorable teddy bears dressed in three crocheted outfits for ice skating, jogging or ballet dancing. Each outfit comes with its own hat (or tiara or visor) and shoes to match. The outfits will fit a 12-inch jointed teddy bear. If you order our kit, one of the bears pictured will be included.

For kit orders only, you may call 7 a.m.2 p.m. weekdays to (800) 873-9537. Satisfaction guaranteed.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: TO GET DIRECTIONS To obtain directions for making the Bear Wardrobe, send your request for Leaflet No. 121095 with $2 and a long, stamped, self-addressed envelope to: The NeedleWorks, The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 419148, Kansas City, MO 64141. Or you may order Kit No. 121095 by sending a check or money order for $18.95 to The NeedleWorks at the same address. Kit price includes shipping charges, full instructions and cotton yarn in cream, black, periwinkle, red and jade. A 12-inch, jointed, old-fashioned teddy bear is included in this kit.