Needlecrafts
Start your next project with these librarian selected resources for sewing, knitting, crocheting, fashion design and more.
About Needlecrafts
Create objects with textiles includes sewing, knitting, crochet, fashion design, and more. Learn a new skill, discover new techniques or find fresh patterns at the library and beyond. These links to our collection and resources curated from the internet are the perfect way to start out or improve your skills.
eBooks & eMagazines on Needlecrafts
- Hooked on Crochet by Candi Jensen
Craft stylish and unique fabric masterpieces. Whether you're new to crocheting or just need a refresher course, Hooked on Crochet makes it a snap to learn basic techniques and then move on to more challenging patterns. Candi Jenson provides illustrated step-by-step instructions for 20 sweet and sassy projects that include hats, bags, clothing, and accessories for the home. - Amy Butler's In Stiches by Amy Butler
Celebrated designer Amy Butler brings her fresh, modern style to the timeless craft of sewing. In this lavishly illustrated collection of patterns, she presents more than 25 charming projects ranging from cushy floor cushions to smart aprons to stylish handbags. Lush photographs inspire, while how-to illustrations and straightforward text (minus the confusing sewing lingo) make it a cinch to achieve beautifully finished projects. - Brave New Quilts by Kathreen Ricketson
Well-known author and blogger at Whipup.net, Kathreen Ricketson presents 12 quilts inspired by 20th century art movements—from Art Nouveau and Bauhaus to pop and punk. Every art-inspired quilt concept is divided into 4 chapters: Use of Line, Use of Color, Use of Motif, and Use of Text. Each of these chapters contains 3 projects and is generously outlined with illustrations and 2 alternate design options. - Overdrive - Cross Stitcher eMagazine
CrossStitcher is the UK’s best-selling crafts magazine. Each issue is packed with inspirational cross stitch designs and exciting new ideas that will help you make the most of this wonderfully relaxing and rewarding hobby. Please note: This digital version of the magazine does not currently include the covermount items or content you would find on printed newsstand copies. - Overdrive - Interweave Knits eMagazine
Interweave Knits is a sophisticated look at knitwear that offers the reader success with step-by-step pattern instruction and beautiful photography. - Overdrive - Beginner's Guide to Embroidery eMagazine
Discover how easy it is to create beautiful embroidery. Build your confidence with our clear photo guides and step-by-step instructions for every popular stitch – then choose from over 60 stylish needlework projects!
Needlecrafts in our collections
Use these quick subject searches to jump into our Library Catalogue and find titles to borrow.
Video resources for Needlecrafts
- Kanopy - Design: All About Textiles
The human body is almost constantly in contact with some form of textile, whether it be the clothing that we wear or the interiors that we live and work in. Join interior designer Brandi Hagen as she showcases samples and explains different types of natural fibers including plant, animal, mineral and synthetic fibers, including: - Nylon - Polyester - Rayon - Acrylic - Microfibers Fabric construction and surface design are also discussed. - Kanopy - Understanding Fabrics
This program is a fast paced introduction to fabric science. Viewers learn about fabrics that repair broken hearts, stop bullets, fight fire, stop water, and enable people to fly. They tour a textile mill and watch raw acrylic become fabric. This program teaches how to recognise the basic weaves, how fibers become yarns, and how fabric is made by traditional hand looms as well as high speed computerised machines. - Kanopy - How Clothing is Made
Take your students behind the scenes in the garment industry. Join a film crew to visit Henry-Lee Apparel in Chicago, a family business that makes over five hundred styles a year for six brand lines. Follow each step of garment production from raw fabric to its delivery to the retail outlet. Learn the role of the designer, pattern maker, marker, spreader, and cutter. See how progressive bundling and whole garment manufacturing differ. - Joycy YouTube Channel
"With her YouTube playlists split up by garment — as well as difficulty level — Jocelina of Pink Chocolate Break covers anything and everything you may want to make. All in bright prints and with a big smile, Jocy's videos will fill you with confidence in your abilities." - Bustle - sewmarm YouTube Channel
"The comforting casualness of these sewing tutorials makes me happy. It's like being taught how to sew by your best friend's mom. With a lack of flashy edits or graphics, you know this is all about the sewing itself. Although it's another forgotten channel, it's still one to check on when you need help with the basics." - Bustle - Professor Pincushion YouTube Channel
"Tackling harder sewing techniques like embroidering eyelets or creating tulip sleeves, Professor Pincushion takes things step by tiny step, so even a beginner won't get that confused." - Bustle
Online Resources
- Dear Handmade LifeEmpowers creatives with education and a forum to help people make a living doing what they love.
- Quilt ManitobaProvides resources and links for quilters in Manitoba.
- Thread CultJournalist and sewing blogger Christine Cyr Clisset interviews master craft people and creators in the home sewing, textile, and fashion communities.
- While She NapsThis is a blog about the home sewing industry and creative entrepreneurship with a focus on craft publishing and fabric manufacturing.
- Woolmark CompanyThe global authority on merino wool, this website is dedicated to wool and all things related such as product information, wool certification and online tutorials.
- Yarn HarlotAward-winning Canadian blogger/author with many knitting projects and current affair commentaries.
Recommended books on Needlecraft
The Sewing Book by Publication Date: 2018Over 300 techniques that show you how to sew absolutely everything--from clothes to home decor--plus 10 stylish new projects and updated information on more than 100 tools and 50 fabrics, with a glossary of sewing terminology.
A Beginner's Guide to Dyeing and Sewing by Publication Date: 2018Everything you need to know to start dyeing and create 12 dazzling dye effects - from tie-dyeing and dip-dyeing to creating checks, lines, droplets and bubbles. Then learn how to put them into practice to create 21 gorgeous sewn projects, ranging from bags and pillows to towels, scarves and clothing.
Heavy Duty Sewing by Publication Date: 2018From the founder of iconic outdoors brand Sandqvist, this cool craft book is all about using needle and thread, a sewing machine and stiff materials to make your own practical, hardwearing functional objects. From hiking rucksacks to knife holders, vanity bags to aprons, there are projects for the experienced home sewer who is looking to try something new, for people who find the idea of sewing fun but may not have come up with a suitable project and for those who have never even used a sewing machine before.
Vogue Knitting by Publication Date: 2018The ultimate knitting reference, from the world's most recognized knitting magazine, gets a thorough update--including 1,600 color images and brand-new sections with techniques and designs!
201 Knitting Motifs, Blocks, Projects, and Ideas by Publication Date: 2018Learn how to knit all manner of motifs and patterns with this amazing, comprehensive guide to knitting techniques. Whether you simply want to expand your repertoi of stitches, make any of the 50+ projects, or take inspiration from the innumerable patterns available, there'll be something in 201 Knitting Motifs for everyone!
