Cross Stitch Organizations

1. Embroiders Guild of America

Since 1958, the Embroiderers' Guild of America has encouraged a high standard of needlework education and instruction. Several levels of Membership are available.

2. Needlework Guild of Minnesota

Since 1972, the Needlework Guild of Minnesota has been focused on "fostering the art of needlework through its educational programs" and encouraging members to "develop high standards in the needlearts". Their site offers membership information and tips for Needlecrafters.

3. Royal School of Needlework

Since 1872, the emphasis of the Royal School of Needlework has been to teach the art of hand embroidery. Courses are offered in almost every embroidery style imaginable.

4. The National Academy of Needlearts

The National Academy of Needlearts, established in 1985, focuses on embroidery as an art form through education and certification programs for embroidery teachers, judges, artists, designers, authors, and embroiderers. National Craft

5. The National NeedleArts Association

Since 1975, The National NeedleArts Association, TNNA, an international trade organization, has represented retailers, manufacturers, distributors, designers, publishers and wholesalers of upscale needleart products and supplies. Although membership is open to the trade only, the TNNA website offers a great deal of information about Cross Stitch and other Needlearts.

6. Craft and Hobby Association

In 2004, the Hobby Industry Association (HIA) and the Association of Crafts & Creative Industries (ACCI), combined to form the Craft & Hobby Association (CHA). The CHA has three websites: the consumer website, the industry website, and the website for teachers which has crafting lesson plans and ideas. CHA has special promotions in March and September to further promote Crafts and Hobbies.

7. Danish Handcraft Guild

The Danish Handcraft Guild offers an annual Cross Stitch Publication, Danish flower thread and more. Click on the appropriate flag for a translation of the page into the language of your choice.

8. Embroiderer's Guild - UK

Since 1906, the Embroiderer's Guild has expanded from a group of eight embroiders to an organization which offers courses, workshops, publications, tours, and more with needlework as the focus.

9. Start Your Own Cross Stitch Club

Can't find a local Cross Stitch or Craft Club? Start your own by following these tips.

10. Subscribe to the About.com Cross Stitch Newsletter

Keep up with all the latest additions to About.com Cross Stitch. Sign up for the free About.com Cross Stitch Newsletter today.