Beginner Needlepoint Monogram Bag Charm workshop in Montgomery County, Md.

Learn the classic continental stitch to create a monogram on plastic canvas. Turn it into a bag charm or a magnet, and then make another!

Needlepoint is the darling of the craft world right now, and we’ve happily jumped on the bandwagon. Our sold-out intro to needlepoint workshop in February was a big success, and we plan to teach another one just as soon as needlepoint canvas is back in stock … anywhere.

Luckily, there are lots of ways to stitch, so we’d love to introduce you to needlepoint via a less expensive and super-satisfying medium — plastic canvas! In this workshop, you’ll practice techniques that you can eventually apply to more traditional needlepoint canvas and patterns. You’ll learn the classic continental stitch to create a monogram on plastic canvas. Turn it into a bag charm or a magnet, and then make another! It’s quick, satisfying and a little bit addictive.

In the workshop, you’ll learn:

• How needlepoint differs from other needlework, like cross stitch and embroidery (and how it’s the same!).

• How to work the continental stitch, one of the most common needlepoint stitches.

• How to read a needlepoint pattern.

• How to create needlepoint projects using different materials — in this case, plastic canvas and tapestry wool.

• How to finish your stitching into a bag charm or magnet.

All materials are included:

• Plastic canvas and tapestry wool (enough to make several monograms).

• A tapestry needle.

• Handy notions like tiny scissors and a needle threader.

ª Hardware to finish your project as a bag charm or magnet.

• Pattern for the entire alphabet, and a heart.

No experience necessary — come see what all the fuss is about! Open to crafters 14 to adult.