Fiber Artist Locket in argentium sterling silver with dendritic agate

Entirely my design and handmade by me in my Connecticut studio. Inspired by my legions of needleworking friends, relatives, and ancestors.

A while back, a friend challenged me to design a piece of jewelry that combines the functions of thread cutter, needle threader, and needle minder. The result is the Fiber Artist Locket. This one features a dendritic agate with a lovely plant-like inclusion and colors ranging from orange to pink.

The thread cutter and the needle threader can be used without opening the locket. To cut a thread, simply pull it through one of the slots at the bottom of the locket. The needle threader hides inside the bail of the locket (the part that hangs on the chain) and can be used by pulling it to one side.

Inside the locket, you'll find two little silver circles with magnets inside them. This is your needle minder. Put one of the magnets on the front of your piece and one on the back, and keep track of your needle by placing it on the top magnet. Also inside the locket are the blade for the thread cutter and the needle minder, both of which can be replaced with standard parts (a 28mm rotary cutting blade and any wire-style needle threader).

The locket is on a 30-inch handmade chain so it can be used while you're wearing it without struggling or squinting.

A perfect gift for the quilter, embroiderer, or knitter in your life (or for yourself!).