My Creation Story

Welcome to my corner of the crafting world! I’m Dena—a passionate sewist who’s no stranger to the little frustrations that can interrupt my creative flow.

For years, chronic neck pain limited my sewing time to just 30-minute sessions. So when I sat down to sew, every minute mattered.

One of the most annoying time-wasters? Figuring out which needle I’d left in a machine. I’d have to remove the needle, decipher the tiny colored rings at the top, dig out the corresponding color chart (if I could even remember the manufacturer), and then—if it turned out to be the right one—put the needle back in. Sometimes, I’d even drop it into the throat plate… never fun.

But one night, frustration turned into inspiration. I had a lightbulb moment: What if there were a simpler way to track my needles without the guesswork?

Thus, the Needle Noter™️ was born.

About Me

It all began sixty years ago. I found my love of sewing in seventh grade with Mrs. Lackey when I learned to make an A-line skirt. I went on to take six years of Home Ec. during my time in public school. With the help of my teachers, by twelfth grade, I was sewing more sophisticated patterns including bathing suits, two-piece suits, shirts & pants.

From then on I carried my original Kenmore 10 sewing machine (from the early 70’s!) to every college dorm room and apartment. After I got married, sewing became a creative outlet I returned to whenever I could find the time —between raising a family and working in healthcare, education, and running my own grant-writing business. I had especially loved making my own curtains and baby clothes.

Once I retired, I made the time to fully enjoy my creative sewing expression. I slowly purchased new machines such as; Serger, Embroidery, and Coverstitch) which expanded my opportunities and sewing knowledge.

This is why I created the Needle Noter, to help myself and others continue to enjoy their passion.