I have often been asked what equipment I would recommend to a needlework beginner, so I decided to publish a list.

1. Scissors – Get yourself a sharp pair of small embroidery scissors, these are useful for snipping thread ends without damaging your work.
2. Embroidery hoop – These come in different sizes and are a must when working on your project, as they hold the fabric tight whilst you stitch. This means no pulls, or snags! Remember to get the right size for your work, or a size that can show enough detail of the finished design whilst you are working.
3. Pins – Pins are sometimes helpful to hold fabrics in place if you wish to appliqué, etc.
4. Measuring tape – This maybe helpful depending on what branch of needlework you are doing, for example fabrics and designs might be measured if you choose to do something freehand. They are also useful for when you mount your work, so that you get an idea of what size frame you will need.
5. Stitch unpicker/ripper – This is a tool I always have in my box. I mostly use it for sewing, but do occasionally use it for freehand embroidery.
6. Thread Organiser Box or Cards – You will always have left over threads from completed kits. This is because kit manufacturers, always allow for a percentage of threads to be thrown away as a mistake. In this case every fellow needleworker I have ever met keeps those threads for other projects and you know what those threads are often quite useful!
7. Needle Keep – This just needs to be a scrap of fabric, where you can keep all of your spare needles in one place. There are also plenty you could buy, or your could even make your own.
8. Note pad & pen – I always keep a notepad and pen with my work, just in case I am running low on something I can write the correct codes for colour threads, etc.

I carry equipment and beginner packs in stock, so do drop in… Sara's Texture Crafts.