No, bandades are not necessary, I have some good mending lotion that includes fabric so they are better. I heard them meow when they were dropped in the mailbox and told them good riddens I am getting better ones that behave. i kept the ones that did behave. Only one of each, but there were some respectably behaved kitties to keep. Now onto the dogs. I already have some embroidery designs in mind that I have, will be the 6" & 3" blocks, and fabric washed, pressed, and ready to cut up. I may make 12" blocks with those and put an embroidery in the middle of it. I do have a couple of applique patterns, but not sure of how much time I can devote with vacation just around the corner. Not sure if I can get away with bringing sewing machine along on vacation. I may practice needle turn applique. There is a good fabric store in Butte, Montana where I will be........... take a class right?