Sometimes I think that although I became addicted to needlepoint in 1970, I didn’t really learn how to do needlepoint until sometime in the early 80′s. Because my then I actually had learned about materials, good technique etc. So here’s a pile of mostly unorganized tips to get you started right. Use your guild or shop! Shopowners want to turn your from browsers into regular customers. So ask them how to do a stitch, what thread you could try, what might be a good background. Take a beginner’s class if it is offered. Find out the name and meeting time of your local guild. When I’m at my local shop stitching, I often help the customers there. Stitchers are friendly and love to share! Use the freebies out there. Many sites and shops have free patterns. These patterns can help you learn new threads, techniques and stitches. If you use