needlework

American  

[need-l-wurk] / ˈnid lˌwɜrk /

noun

1. the art, process, or product of working with a needle, especially in embroidery, needlepoint, tapestry, quilting, and appliqué.

2. the occupation or employment of a person skilled in embroidery, needlepoint, etc.

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needlework British  

/ ˈniːdəlˌwɜːk /

noun

1. work done with a needle, esp sewing and embroidery

2. the result of such work

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Etymology

Origin of needlework

First recorded in 1350–1400, needlework is from Middle English nedle werk. See needle, work

Example Sentences

Artisans in white coats greeted guests at the Tod's fashion show in Milan Friday, crafting the Made in Italy leather and needlework items for which the company -- and country -- is renowned.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

Does she enjoy music, theater, fantasy sports, needlework, museums, astronomy?

From Washington Post • Apr. 2, 2023

Scholars have also examined the messages encoded in women’s needlework, miniatures, interior design, even the color of silk floss used to “lock” letters to protect them from prying eyes.

From New York Times • Jul. 7, 2022

One theory was that Russian Etsy sellers were pirating virtual patterns and reselling them, but designers instead attribute it to a rich tradition of needlework in the country.

From The Verge • Mar. 28, 2022

I’d noticed she had stepped up her work on it this week as she supervised my housework and needlework lessons.

From "The Red Car to Hollywood" by Jennie Liu