A community built on
shared passion
The Needlework Guild of Minnesota has been connecting hand stitchers across the Twin Cities since 1972. We are a welcoming, member-led nonprofit where people of every skill level come to learn, stitch, and belong.
Whether you've been stitching for decades or just picked up a needle for the first time, you'll find your people here.
Our beginning
Needlework experienced a renaissance in the early 1970s, and Minnesota was no exception. In fall 1971, Marnie Hensel and Mary Dayton organized a statewide needlework exhibition to raise funds for the Minnetonka Center for Arts and Education. More than 400 individuals entered their work — far more than anyone expected.
Motivated by that response, the organizers collected names and addresses of everyone interested in forming a permanent group. Georgiana Kane led a provisional cabinet through the formative period, and in May 1972 the group held its first annual meeting. With the adoption of bylaws in 1973, it became the Needlework Guild of Minnesota — with approximately 50 charter members.
More than 50 years later, the Guild has grown to roughly 200 members. That original spirit remains: a genuine love of handwork, and the belief that making things together is better than making things alone.
What the Guild is for
Belonging
A place to show up as you are. Members form real friendships through shared work and shared tables. Beginners and experienced stitchers are equally welcome.
Learning
Every meeting is a chance to pick up something new — from fellow members, from visiting teachers, or from our 400+ book lending library. Curiosity is always encouraged.
Craft
We take needlework seriously without taking ourselves too seriously. The Guild is committed to keeping traditional skills alive — and to the simple joy of making beautiful things by hand.
What members do together
From weekly Zoom calls to annual retreats, Guild life offers something at every level of involvement.
Monthly Meetings
Seven recurring groups meet monthly — from open Stitch-Ins to specialty groups focused on beading, needlepoint, counted thread, and more. Members attend as many as they like.
Lending Library
Members can borrow from a collection of 400+ needlework books — technique guides, pattern books, stitch dictionaries, and design references spanning every discipline.
Annual Retreat
Three days of focused stitching with nationally recognized instructors. One of the most anticipated events of the guild year — registration opens to members first.
Workshops & Programs
Special programs through the year bring visiting teachers and new techniques. Most are free for members; some have small materials fees for kits.
Bimonthly Newsletter
The Guild newsletter keeps members informed about upcoming meetings, program highlights, member news, and Guild announcements — delivered by email every two months.
Member Connection
A private member directory, an active email list, and regular in-person gatherings keep members connected between meetings. Many members say the friendships are the best part.
Meet our leadership
The Guild is led by volunteer members who help organize meetings, events, communications, and programs throughout the year.
General questions? Email the Guild
Your first visit is
always welcome
Curious? Come to a meeting. Your first visit is free, and we'd love to meet you. Membership is $30 a year — and it's one of the best things you can do for your stitching life.