Updated July, 18, 2023.
Do you stitch with a lamp and magnifier? Or do you use your magnifier near a window with direct sunlight?
Remember the thing about setting a leaf on fire with a magnifying glass?
The same thing can happen to your needlepoint. If light shines through the magnifier and is concentrated at a small point, your needlepoint can catch on fire. This is true for any magnifier/light combination, not just for magnifier lights.
Always use a cover whenever you use a magnifier if you are not stitching.
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
I have first-hand experience with starting a needlepoint fire! When the weather is nice I like to stitch outside. I started to smell something burning and very quickly I realized my clothing was smoldering due to the position of the magnifier on my needlepoint frame. I have also burned a hole in my canvas which required a major repair. Great advice for everyone to be mindful of!!!!!