Needlework is another term for the handicraft of decorative sewing and textile arts.
Needlework includes
Patchwork
Patchwork or “pieced work” is a form of needlework that involves sewing together pieces of fabric into a larger design. The larger design is usually based on repeat patterns built up with different colored shapes. Patchwork embroidery has been in vogue for decades and gained immense popularity during Great Depression, as it was the only method to recycle worn clothing into warm quilts. This embroidery has traditionally been sewn together by hand, but with the change in technology and to cash on the benefits of mass production. Patchwork is most often used to make quilts, but it can also be used to make bags, wall-hangings, warm jackets, skirts and other items of clothing. Some textile artists work with patchwork, often combining it with embroidery and other forms of stitchery.
Knitting
Knitting is a craft by which thread or yarn may be turned into cloth. may be done by hand or by machine. Flat knitting, which is done on two straight needles, produces a length of cloth, while circular knitting, which is done on circular or double-pointed needles, produces a tube of cloth. Knitted cloth is made out of yarn, a length of continuous fibres. Yarn for knitting can be made from any number of natural or synthetic fibres. Most knitting needles (also called knitting pins) are long, slender sticks with either one or two tapered ends used to hold and bring the working yarn through active stitches.
Embroidery
Embroidery is the art or handicraft of decorating fabric or other materials with designs stitched in strands of thread or yarn using a needle. Embroidery stitches are the smallest units in embroidery, embroidery patterns are formed by doing many embroidery stitches, either all the same or different ones, either following a counting chart on paper, following a design painted on the fabric or even working freehand. Blackwork Embroidery is a simple form of embroidery, stitched in black thread on white or off-white fabric.
Cross Stitch
Cross-stitch is a popular form of counted-thread embroidery in which X-shaped stitches are used to form a picture. Cross-stitch is the most popular form of hobby embroidery in the western world. It lends itself well to recreational use, as it is easy to learn and very versatile. Traditionally, cross-stitch was used to embellish items like dishcloths, household linens, and doilies. Modern cross-stitch designs often make extensive use of colours in many shades. When using fine fabric and thread this can create very realistic effects, almost like paintings, if that is desired.
Tapestry
Tapestry is woven by hand on a weaving-loom. Most weavers use a naturally based warp thread such as linen or cotton. The weft threads are usually wool or cotton, but may include silk, gold, silver, or other alternatives. is commonly (though incorrectly) applied to embroidered items made in canvas work such as needlepoint. Canvas work can look very much like tapestry.