Needlework Crafts

There are many different types of needlework. In fact, needlework is a term used to describe any crafting that requires the use of a needle. Tapestry, smocking, embroidery, cross stitch, quilting, applique and tatting are some of the different types of needlework.

Applique has a couple of different meanings. When sewing, an applique is separate pieces of fabric sewn onto another piece of fabric, making a design. The edges are usually folded under slightly and sewn in place using a satin or straight stitch.

Tapestry is another form of needlework -- it is a textile art. Using a vertical loom, threads are woven by hand. There are weft threads, which are the threads that are woven under and over parallel threads. The parallel threads are called warp threads. Warp and weft threads are typically made out of different fibers.

Tatting, another form of needlework, is a method of making lace. It uses a series of knots and loops to make the lace. You can put a decorative lace edging on an article of clothing, make lace doilies or even a lace collar for a dress or blouse. There are a few different ways to tat. Using a shuttle is one method. It uses nothing more than the shuttle, the tatter's hands, thread and a series of movements with the hands to create the lace.

At Herrschners.com, there are many different kits that you can purchase to make different needlework crafts. Anything from needlepoint to counted cross stitch kits can be found. You can also purchase supplies and patterns. There are also excellent websites that can teach you how to do some of these needlework crafts. There are instructions to follow and diagrams to look at to ensure that you are doing it correctly.