Since at least 2016, Nifty Needlework has provided an outlet for students interested in needlework crafts. The club, originally founded as Stitch2Serve, began as one of Elizabethtown College’s service-oriented clubs with a mission to help those in need. Over time, the group evolved to reflect a broader focus on community, expanding to include more social aspects and skill-sharing.
The group has changed and evolved over time, but its commitment to service remains. Nifty Needlework donates items to charity fundraisers hosted by the theatre clubs on campus, as well as to homeless shelters.
Today, the club also functions as a relaxing environment where students are able to learn or work on needlework projects. Members are encouraged to explore crafts, including crochet, knit, embroidery, cross-stitch and more.
Jay Diaz, an environmental science major, serves as the club’s president and has been involved since they were in their first year.
“I love the open space we’ve created for open conversations and learning. I never have to worry about not knowing something or not liking something,” Diaz said.
The club’s mission is to create a welcoming space for students to craft and learn in a calming, stress-free atmosphere. Needlework crafts are known to support dress and anxiety reduction, which many students may find helpful during a busy semester. No prior knowledge or experience is required to attend meetings.
“We’re eager to help newcomers learn and try new things, ” Diaz said. “We want to provide a comfy space to hangout.”
The club officer board includes Olivia Addo as vice president, Angie Pacheco as treasurer and Makenzi Reed as secretary. Officer positions are typically passed down to members with passion for the craft and regular attendance.
During a typical meeting, students are able to bring supplies or share supplies provided by the club. Music is often played in the background, and students are able to focus on their projects. Beginners can ask for help, while returning members may bring ongoing pieces.
Nifty Needlework hosts holiday themed events throughout the year, typically around Halloween, Christmas and Valentine’s Day. These events often involve students crafting while watching a seasonal movie. These events allow students to create and hang out in a relaxing and comfortable environment with their peers.
The club provides basic materials, such as yarn, crochet hooks and knitting needles free of charge for use during meetings. Students may sign out items for a $5 fee. This diminishes the barrier of cost when trying out new crafts.
Meetings are held every other Thursday from 8:30 p.m to 9:30 p.m. in Nicarry 208.
Students are welcome to attend any meeting and learn the ropes of needleworking crafts or work on their own projects. For more information, reach out to niftyneedlework@etown.edu.
