Linda, good for you having friends that lurk. NONE of my friends sew, and I hate that in a way because no one to share ideas and excitement -- but the good part is that they love to get a homemade gift AND they can't tell where I have made mistakes ! (grin). I think the board is slow right now because everyone IS making gifts. Probably will get better after Christmas. MERRY CHRISTMAS, everyone on the board! ...and thanks for the advice on needles.