Whether you are a beginning stitcher or have been stitching for a long time, sooner or later you’ll take your first needlepoint class.
Taking an in-person class is different than learning from a book or even from a cyberclass. To me, they are always special treats!
Charlotte Lamontagne of the Sweet Sundays blog recently took her first class at one of my favorite shops, Waste Knot in Arlington. Her experience and advice in a blog post is very helpful.
About Janet M Perry
Janet Perry is the Internet's leading authority on needlepoint. She designs, teaches and writes, getting raves from her fans for her innovative techniques, extensive knowledge and generous teaching style. A leading writer of stitch guides, she blogs here and lives on an island in the northeast corner of the SF Bay with her family
We were taught in our guild that wearing fragrances was discouraged when attending needlework classes. This is done out of consideration for those who may have an allergy. Most members are careful about this at monthly meetings and occasional stitch-ins, too.
Also, regarding food/meal breaks. No food or beverage, including plain water, should be anywhere near the area where the stitching takes place. It should be a no brainer, but unless it is clearly stated, there’s often someone who takes out their snack, scattering gooey, greasy crumbs that find their way onto a neighbor’s stitching. Even worse, spills happen, creating problems for everyone at the table. Better to have a separate, dedicated area for food consumption, well away from the stitching area.