Cross-stitch, needlepoint, knitting, and crocheting all experienced mass surges in popularity in the idling days of the pandemic. Driven in large part by social media—and because with both hands occupied it is impossible to doomscroll—an interest in the time-consuming but relaxing art forms quickly became a new trend among younger generations.
“We’re seeing a lot of the grandmillennials who are embracing the customs of their grandmothers,” says Rebecca Fletcher, co-owner of Wipstitch Needleworks. “Needle arts are a part of that.”
Dallas shops are meeting the demand with cheeky new designs and plenty of beginner class options. If you’re in the market for a custom crocheted shoulder bag or hand-stitched martini glass to hang above your bar cart, look no further.
Wipstitch Needleworks
Founded in 2020 by the Dallas-based “Wipsisters,” Rebecca Fletcher and Elizabeth Malakoff, this online shop offers a variety of cute and unexpected Texas-themed templates, from a blue-and-white Clase Azul tequila bottle to a can of Ro-Tel, as well as state bird and flower postage stamp designs. Also popular: the colorful, monogram-style, expletive-laced “Dirty Coasters.” (We like the rainbow versions.)
Chaparral Needlework
At Heidi Henrichs’ shop, the purchase of a beginner needlepoint kit comes with a class for free. “Younger artists like the tradition of needlepoint. Many of them have family members who do it as well,” Henrichs says. “But they especially like to make cocktail-related items. Espresso martinis are big.” 6445 Cedar Springs Rd., Ste. 200.
Needlepoint This
This store has been in business since the ’70s; Bonnie Varney became the latest owner in 2008. Her inventory tends toward the G-rated and playful, with flamingo pool float and Popsicle designs. It’s a great spot for beginner classes; private and group lessons are offered weekly. 4420 Lovers Ln.
Creative Stitches and Gifts
The brand-new 3,000-square-foot store on Preston has an endless array of needlepoint supplies. Cross-stitchers be aware: you’ll find endless thread and linen fabric options but no plastic templates here. This is also the exclusive vendor of Carol Eix Designs, the owner’s personal needlepoint brand. 12817 Preston Rd., Ste. 132.
Knit Dallas
Owner Meredith Zapata says most of the attendees at her weekly craft nights are 20-year-olds. While she serves knitters of all levels, she also offers advanced courses in complex styles such as amigurumi, an intricate Japanese form of crochet used to create stuffed animals and objects. 6434 E. Mockingbird Ln., Ste. 105.
McKinney Knittery
From quilting basics to simple sock tutorials to knitting and crochet classes for kids, there’s something for everyone at this picturesque shop in historic downtown McKinney. In March, you’ll find classes on everything from lace knitting to junk journal making. 117 W. Louisiana St., McKinney.
This story originally ran in the March issue of D Magazine with the headline, “Can’t Use My Phone” Write to [email protected].
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