Needlepoint is no longer a hobby of the past—it’s a vibrant, growing craft that’s bringing people together in new and exciting ways. In Cincinnati, Three Needles Stitchery is at the forefront of this movement, creating a space where stitchers of all skill levels can connect, learn and celebrate their shared passion. Founded by locals Nikki Daley, Anne Ellington and Jen Hall, Three Needles Stitchery launched in 2024 with the goal of uniting stitchers from around the country. Their first signature retreat, held at the Kenwood Country Club in February, exceeded all expectations, drawing 148 attendees from 22 states.
The idea for Three Needles Stitchery started with a simple yet powerful realization: Cincinnati needed a needlepoint retreat. Jen had previously hosted a breakfast gathering for stitchers, and the enthusiasm it generated convinced her, Nikki and Anne that a larger event could be a huge success. Each co-founder brings something unique to the table—Anne, the most experienced stitcher, has a passion for teaching; Jen is a talented designer with a thriving canvas line; and Nikki fell in love with needlepoint after learning from them both, drawn in by the craft’s mix of texture, color and creativity.
“Needlepoint has experienced an incredible resurgence,” Nikki explains. “Social media and the pandemic introduced it to a new generation, breaking the old stereotype that it was just for an older crowd. In reality, this is an incredibly social and supportive community. People crave real human connection, and needlepoint circles are bringing that back—real conversations, real friendships and no screens in sight.”
Their inaugural two-day retreat was designed for both beginners and seasoned stitchers, featuring hands-on stitching, vendors, happy hours and an exclusive swag bag. Local needlepoint stores opened their doors for private shopping events. Attendees had the option to take specialized classes, including a beading and decorative stitch workshop.
The response was overwhelming. Initially planned for around 50 attendees, the event quickly grew to nearly three times that number.
“The retreat brought together stitchers of all ages with a common love of needlepointing,” Anne explains. “The retreat brought so much joy and energy to the group, it was amazing to witness!"
Jen shares that creating these retreats for people was a natural progression.
"We didn’t initially set out to create a business around needlepoint, but after receiving so much positive feedback and requests for future retreats, we realized there was a real desire for these events,” she explains. “We are thrilled with how it’s come together."
With such an incredible debut event, Three Needles Stitchery is already looking ahead. They plan to host a two-day signature retreat every February, with a one-day mini retreat each August. Though the company is focused on retreats for now, both Nikki and Jen run their own businesses—NikStitch and Jennifer Hall Needlepoint—selling canvases, threads and stitching accessories.
For those curious about needlepoint but unsure where to start, the co-founders encourage taking a beginner’s class with Jen or Anne.
“They’ll walk you through everything—from starting your canvas to mastering different stitching techniques,” Nikki says. “And they’ll keep answering your questions long after class is over.”
Ultimately, Three Needles Stitchery is about more than just needlepoint—it’s about building a community. Whether you’re a lifelong stitcher or just picking up a needle for the first time, this group welcomes you with open arms.
“You can create something truly unique, something you’re proud of,” Nikki says. “And in the process, you’ll meet some of the most wonderful, supportive people out there.”
Save the date for Three Needles Stitchery’s upcoming events: Mini Retreat–August 10, 2025 and the two-day Signature Retreat–February 27-28, 2026.