Maydel (rhymes with “ladle”) is a new needlework shop that makes crafting more inclusive by eliminating hurdles to finding supplies and completing projects. In addition to offering supplies that meet a wide variety of accessibility needs for crafters with metal allergies, light sensitivities, vision and fine motor limitations, and more, Maydel’s by-the-piece pricing and customizable kits ensure that crafters get exactly what they need at the lowest possible cost from a fully vetted list of sustainable, ethical manufacturers.
Read more about our commitment to inclusion & accessibility.
Read more about our commitment to sustainability.
Learn more about our flagship studio in Ravenswood, Chicago.
Fast facts
• Maydel carries the largest selection of nickel-free and hypoallergenic hand needles in North America. We are also the North American distributor for Pony Black needles.
• No online retailer keeps more colors of DMC floss in stock than us. Even the fancy kinds. (Our Quick Search also helps you find colors lightning-fast.)
• Maydel is the only online retailer that sells fabric by the square inch and all of our kits are totally customizable. No wasting material or money.
• Maydel’s carbon footprint is very small, and we offset more than we produce via our partners at Tradewater. Our packaging is 100% recycled, curbside recyclable, and compostable.
• We donate more than 1% of our revenue (not profits) to environmental justice projects in Chicago and reinvest another 1% in underfunded entrepreneurs and cultural preservation. Our major partner for 2024 is the American Indian Center of Chicago.
• Maydel is a member of Business for a Fair Minimum Wage and the Craft Industry Alliance.
Our core principles
Honor: We behave ethically and respect the inherent worth of everyone we meet.
Cultivate: We continually develop ourselves and our business in reciprocity with our partners, our community, and the living earth.
Make history: We marry heritage and ingenuity to build a beloved and lasting institution.
About the founder
Maydel was founded by Lauren Venell, a 20-year veteran crafter, teacher, and designer. After recovering from a too-long stint in Silicon Valley she is thrilled to be back within her chosen community and to be building something meaningful within the great city of Chicago.
