Needle Minder Guide

If you cross stitch, needlepoint, embroider, quilt or sew, you know how easy it is to set down a needle and immediately lose track of it. A needle minder gives your needle a safe, convenient place to rest while you work.

What Is a Needle Minder?

A needle minder is a small magnetic accessory that attaches to your fabric or canvas and holds your needle when you are not stitching.

It has two parts: a decorative top with a magnet and a separate magnet that goes behind your fabric. The two magnets hold the needle minder securely in place without making a hole in your project.

How Does a Needle Minder Work?

Using a needle minder is simple.

Place the decorative piece on the front of your project and position the second magnet directly behind it. The magnets connect through the fabric or canvas and hold the needle minder in place.

When you need to put your needle down, simply place it on the front of the minder. The magnet keeps it there until you are ready to stitch again.

Needle minders are especially helpful for keeping needles off tables, couches, clothing and floors.

What Crafts Can You Use a Needle Minder For?

Needle minders can be used for many types of handwork, including:

• Cross stitch
• Needlepoint
• Embroidery
• Hand quilting
• Hand sewing

Looking for one for your next project? Browse all StewArt Stitches needle minders.

What Kind of Magnet Should a Needle Minder Have?

A good needle minder needs a strong magnet so it stays securely attached to your project and reliably holds your needle.

StewArt Stitches needle minders use strong N52 neodymium magnets. N52 is one of the strongest commonly available grades of neodymium magnet, allowing a small magnet to provide plenty of holding strength without requiring a large, bulky minder.

Can a Needle Minder Damage Fabric?

When used properly, a needle minder should not damage your fabric or canvas because it does not pierce the material.

Instead of pulling the magnets directly apart, slide them away from each other. This is easier on both the magnets and your project, especially when using strong magnets.

What Size Needle Minder Should You Choose?

The best size is large enough to easily hold your needle but small enough that it does not get in the way while you stitch.

For most cross stitch, needlepoint and embroidery projects, a needle minder around 1 to 1½ inches works well. Smaller designs can be nice for tight spaces, while a slightly larger minder can provide more room for your needle.

Where Should You Put Your Needle Minder?

There is no single correct spot. Place it wherever it is easy to reach without interfering with your stitching.

Many stitchers place their needle minder near the edge of the working area or on an open section of fabric or canvas. As your stitching progresses, you can simply move it to a more convenient location.

A needle minder may be a small stitching accessory, but once you get used to having a safe place for your needle it is hard to imagine stitching without one.

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