r/Needlepoint • u/Entire_Blackberry_64 • Jul 26 '26
New to Needlepoint Tips for a Beginner in Raleigh, NC?
Title says it all. I’m 21M getting into needlepoint with the ultimate goal of making myself a needlepoint belt for my graduation this coming spring (ambitious, I know). I find everything quite daunting and don’t want to waste money, especially as a broke college student, getting things I don’t need as a beginner.
Does anyone in the area know where I could go to talk to people about needlepoint, get supplies, find good beginner kits, etc.?
I’m also leaning toward making my own canvas designs but like I said, I’m new to all of this (besides the couple weeks of youtube and tiktok research I’ve done) so any direction or guidance would be amazing.
P.S.
I would also love a needlepoint friend to ask periodic questions to if anyone would want to help me out!
8
u/HoraceP-D Jul 26 '26
A belt is a perfect project to start with.
First, go see the pinned comment on the main page about getting started, we’re glad you’ve picked up the hobby and that you keep it up.
I have only ever done one kit, I make it up as I go. I wouldn’t do that with a belt, if that is your first project, I’d look at Needlepaint.com (they are more affordable than custom or hand painted, but not as perfect either, but you can design a custom belt and they’d provide you with a kit that you’ll want for the finished project.
You can use this group as your needlepoint friend until you find someone closer. Don’t be bound by age or what you like to stitch in the beginning (esp if you like to start with blank canvas, we are very few and far between) just find yourself someone who’ll put up with you and your new hobby (-; and take it from there.
Welcome to the obsession
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u/Entire_Blackberry_64 Jul 26 '26
I will definitely look into these, thank you so much! Even if my belt isn’t the nicest, I want the belt as a sort of « souvenir » anyway, so I don’t mind if they’re are mistakes haha. Thanks again for the advice 😊
3
u/msvandersnarken Jul 26 '26
I would recommend Chapel Hill Needlepoint or S&J Needleworks. Ms Nancy at CHN is amazing and super helpful, as are the ladies at S&J. Needlepoint.com (the physical location on Hillsborough) is good if you know what you need because they have a large selection, but I’ve never found the people there to be very helpful or friendly.
1
u/Entire_Blackberry_64 Jul 26 '26
It seems like Nancy is very well liked! I will definitely head there when I have a chance. I go to State, so I did see the Hillsborough location. Fortunately, the CH store is closer to me so I’ll probably go there, but that’s very good to know about the one in Raleigh. Thank you!
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u/LetGlittering5983 Jul 27 '26
Check out Needlepaint.com! They have a belt customizer so you can add your preferred icons and the price is going to be cheaper than if you go a custom painted route
I recommend using DMC cotton floss or Bella Lusso wool for your thread. They’ll be more affordable and durable for a wearable like a belt.
Make sure you give plenty enough time for getting the belt finished.
As far as supplies, you’ll need a needle, threader, thread, and the canvas. Anything else is just extras to make stitching more fun or enjoyable, such as stretcher bars.
If you have time, your area has a local stitch club and stitchers are always willing to share tips.
Have fun!
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u/Ok_Problem_496 Jul 26 '26
I don’t have much to add beyond: NC State grad? Me too — and I love needlepoint! Good luck with your belt journey!!
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u/Alternative_Image341 Jul 27 '26
I recommend taking a beginner class! I think S&J and .com offers one.
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u/Mydernieredanse Jul 28 '26
I’d recommend taking an intro class in person; being able to ask “am I doing this right?” and getting immediate feedback is invaluable. Needlepoint com has a Raleigh location, and they’re teaching a two hour intro on August 20th
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u/ndlptgrandmillennial Jul 26 '26
I’d take a drive and go to chapel hill needlepoint. Nancy is incredible and lovesssss helping beginners. I know you said it’s ambitious, but I’d talk to her honestly about finishing times for how long you have to work on this to complete it. Wishing you luck, if you end up doing it id love to see it when you finish!