Join Us
Learn about our membership options below. If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at outreach@ner-ega.org. We can’t wait to meet you!
All memberships include a subscription to Needle Arts Magazine (print and online), plus access to the EGA’s educational opportunities, lending library, study boxes, and 70+ Petite Projects!
New members receive our Welcome Package,
which includes a tote bag, stickers, and more!
Choose Your Membership
All members of the Embroiderer’s Guild of America enjoy access to the guild’s benefits.
All guild members in the New England Region* receive special regional perks.
*Voted Best EGA Region for five consecutive decades by extremely biased NER members.
Chapter Membership
Join a chapter for local meetups, members-only workshops, and lasting friendships!
At-Large Membership
No chapter nearby? Stone-cold loner? No problem! Get our region-exclusive benefits.
Learn About Chapter Membership
What is a chapter?
Think of a “chapter” as a friendly, members-only craft club that brings together people who love embroidery…because that’s what it is. Each chapter offers different programs, benefits, classes, and workshops. You can research our chapters and learn what each offers by visiting our Chapter Directory.
What happens at chapter meetings?
Chapter members learn new stitches and techniques together, work on group projects or individual pieces, share tips, troubleshoot problems, and celebrate finished work.
What is the best benefit of chapter membership?
Aside from the friendships, the best thing about chapter membership is the ability to participate in chapter-exclusive mini-workshops with local or visiting instructors. (Sometimes chapters have enough capacity to open invitations to all members in the region, but not always!)
What if I’m nervous about joining a group?
That’s completely normal! Chapter members remember being new too. Most chapters welcome visitors to a meeting or two before you decide to join. You’ll find embroiderers are some of the most patient, encouraging people you’ll ever meet.
What are the members like?
They’re fiber artists. Have you ever met a fiber artist? They’re like that. No matter where they’re from or what age they are, they are exactly like that.
Here’s what you can expect:
- boundless enthusiasm
- superior technique knowledge
- poor impulse control in craft stores
- strong opinions about fibers and needles
- more WIPs than anyone could hope to finish in ten lifetimes
What unites us is a genuine love for the process—the quiet focus, the gradual transformation of plain fabric into art, and the pride that comes from mastering a fine craft that connects us to generations of embroiderers.
People drawn to hand embroidery share a deep appreciation for slow, mindful craftsmanship and the satisfaction of creating something beautiful with their own hands. Stitchers tend to be detail-oriented individuals who find peace in the rhythmic, meditative nature of needlework. Many are drawn to the rich history and tradition behind each technique, while others love the creative freedom to experiment with colors, textures, and contemporary designs.
Do I need to bring anything?
Usually just yourself and maybe a simple project to work on. Chapters often provide coffee, snacks, and lots of helpful advice. Many will even lend you supplies if you’re just starting out.
How much time do I need to commit?
As much or as little as you want! There’s no pressure or minimum time requirement. Some members attend every chapter meeting and multiple workshops each year, while others drop in occasionally when their schedule allows. Many find that even attending one meeting a month gives them the inspiration and community connection they’re looking for.
Embroidery itself is wonderfully flexible—you can stitch for 15 minutes on a train or spend an entire weekend on a project. Like embroidery, the guild fits around your life, not the other way around.