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Assembly for Embroiderers

NAN’s Assembly for Embroiderers is an annual needlework seminar open to all stitchers—not just those aspiring to become teachers and judges. We offer a diverse and interesting array of classes each year, including canvaswork, surface embroidery, various counted thread techniques, color and design classes, art classes pertinent to the needlearts, and Japanese embroidery.

Immediately preceding Assembly, workshops are held for those in certification programs or who wish to learn more about our programs. Assembly officially kicks off on Friday with a tour of a local site of interest and a welcome dinner that evening where you will be greeted by NAN Board Members and featured teachers.

Classes are held Friday through Tuesday, and are of various lengths. A festive Awards Banquet on Monday evening recognizes milestone achievements by our certification candidates and the Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Assembly also features a fun Merchandise Night with one-of-a-kind offerings.

The Exemplary, our annual needlework showcase, is held in conjunction with the Assembly. Both events are housed in a boutique hotel—the Somerset Inn located in suburban Detroit, MI—that caters to our needs, and as a bonus, has an excellent restaurant.

Registration for Assembly 2026 is open...

but before you go any further, here's what's new in 2026:

There's now an option to register for Assembly or enter works in The Exemplary online through the links at the bottom of this page. Paper forms will still be accepted, but fees must be paid via check if you opt to do this. If you go the online route, you'll be able to pay by credit card or check. 

Regardless of which option you choose, the Assembly booklet is your primary source of information for class descriptions, exhibition categories, policies/rules, etc. Be sure to have it accessible as you work through your Assembly registration and Exemplary entry forms.

Please note the following:

  • A separate invoice for kit fees will be sent after registration closes. Kit fees are not included in registration fees.
  • Each entry in The Exemplary requires a separate entry form.
  • To pay by check after submitting your registration/entry form, select "Invoice Me" instead of "Pay Online". You'll receive an invoice by email with instructions where to send your check.

Download the entire Assembly booklet here, or download sections through the links below:

Assembly Deadlines

    • January 15, 2026: Registration closes. Class choices may be limited for registrations received after this date.
    • January 15, 2026: The last day registration fees, less a non-refundable $85 administrative fee, will be refunded if written notice of cancellation is received. No refunds will be issued after this date.

The Exemplary Deadlines

    • February 15, 2026: Deadline for receipt of entry forms, entry fees, and artist statements.
    • March 6, 2026: Deadline for receipt of shipped entries.
    • March 11, 2026: Deadline for in-person delivery of entries.

If you have questions about Assembly, contact our Registrar at registrar@needleart.org

If you have questions about The Exemplary, contact The Exemplary Administrator at exemplary@needleart.org.

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