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Your needlework questions answered
Tangled up in threads? Fear not, help is at hand!
No question is silly so ask away. This page is where you can ask without worrying. Either myself or other visitors to the site may have the answers to your embroidery or needlework questions. You might even be able to answer some yourself.
With over 50 years of embroidery and decades of teaching under my belt, I'll do my best to set you on the right path.
Embroidery is a timeless art passed down through generations. Whether you're a seasoned stitcher or just starting out, there's always something new to learn. Let me be your confidant for everything from basic stitches to advanced fixes.
Don't be shy - ask me anything about embroidery. Need help with fabric, thread colours, or stubborn knots? I'm here to help.
Let your curiosity run wild and fire away with your questions. You can ask these in two different ways...
- Email (private) — Short questions; expect a personal reply.
- Interactive form (public) — Longer questions for community feedback.
Public submissions are published within 3–7 business days.
What can you ask about?
Anything that is related to needlework.
Due to the popularity of this page I have started to organise things a little.
There are now more interactive pages on the site where you can ask questions relating to the following subjects (just click on the photo to go to the relevant page)...
Guidelines for submitting your embroidery questions
Please try to be specific in your title. If you name your submission Sue or Mary, it doesn't give me any idea of the question you are asking. If I can see at a glance that I can help straight away, then it is better for both of us.
If you can add a photo, please do — it makes your submission more attractive (it doesn't have to be a masterpiece). Use natural light, crop tightly to the stitched area, and include a coin or ruler for scale.
Once I publish your submission it will be listed below the invitation, and other visitors will be able to comment on it.
Aim for 250–500 words. If you only have a quick question, email instead.
I review each question before it is published, so that no spam messages get through.
Got a question about needlework?
The best way to learn is by asking questions. Sure, you can email me and ask but why not ask all the visitors to the site and get a selection of answers?
This is also the place to give something back and try to help others with their queries. Have fun!
Read other people's questions - and help if you can
Click below to see questions from other visitors to this page...
Twilleys tapestry kit 
I have a kit but have lost the instructions. Twilleys have ceased trading so I cannot request a replacement.
My question is about the yarn supplied. …
Can I do hand embroidery on ribbon?
I am new to embroidery. I couldn't even sew a button to a shirt 6 months ago. I don't own a sewing machine, and I want to embroider a message onto a piece …
Backing of cross stitched baby blanket
I just finished cross stitching a stamped baby quilt for my first grand child and would like to sew a flannel backing onto it to cover up the threads on …
Needlepoint accessories to help older sewers
Hi...I have been doing needlepoint for years but as I am getting older I am finding some challenges that are preventing me from continuing to enjoy doing …
Embroidery on sweatshirt makes Popping sound
I found a sweatshirt at Walmart, which had a cute Reindeer on it. I instantly saw how doing some stitching over the screen printing would bring it to life. …
new to this-question about fraying
I'm getting ready to start my first "real" cross stitch project. I have the kit ordered and I'm chomping on the bit to receive it!
However, I would …
Transferring embroidery pattern onto colored fabric
I am going to embroider a design on black fabric.
Someone told me to use fusible paper to draw my pattern, then iron it to the fabric, and do the embroidery …
threads for making friendship bracelets
I make small friendship bracelet kits for kids. I give them away for free and enjoy the happiness it brings them.
I usually buy embroidery floss by …
flatten and block antique needlepoint lace
How do I flatten and block a piece of needlepoint lace with a lot of floral inserts etc?
Thanks, Christine Zachary, Portland, Oregon
Carol says... …
bead attachment
I need to attach my beads to my finished cross stitch but I'm not sure how. It says, "all beads are attached with a cross stitch. Go through each bead …
how to attach vintage fabric center to crocheted edge
I have a beautiful wide crocheted edge for a large, round piece. I will use it on my big round, dining room table. I purchased a beautiful piece of vintage …
Sock monkey's eyes
I have made a sock monkey for my grandchild; she is only a year old. I would like to embroider the eyes on instead of button eyes since she is so young …
Stumped on French Knots
I am just beginning in cross stitching and I have had no trouble,until now. I am having a very hard time trying to make a French Knot. I have a guide book …
ideas for old embroidery
I have several old pieces of cloth that have beautiful embroidery. The cloth has stains and tears but the needlework is in excellent condition. Do you …
Hand quilting a cross stitch lap blanket Not rated yet
I have completed a cross stitch lap blanket. Now, do I finish it with hand quilting straight stitch right through the cross stitching?
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Hi Susan, …
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No pressure. Just a friendly note now and then to keep you inspired.
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