Translation guide
The craft or activity of sewing, embroidery, or decorative stitching. In Japanese, the most common general term is 裁縫 (saihou), but specific types like embroidery or knitting have their own words.
The standard word for sewing as a practical skill or school subject. Covers both hand sewing and machine sewing.
My mother is good at needlework.
I learned needlework at school.
Refers to handicrafts in general, including sewing, knitting, embroidery, etc. Often used for hobbies.
Needlework is my hobby.
I bought thread at the needlework shop.
Literally 'needle work'. A more casual, everyday term for sewing tasks, often mending or simple stitching.
I have a pile of needlework to do.
Decorative stitching on fabric.
The specific term for embroidery. Can be used as a noun or verb (刺繍する).
This needlework (embroidery) is very beautiful.
I embroidered a handkerchief.
Creating fabric from yarn using needles or hooks.
General term for knitting and crochet. Often used for the activity or the resulting fabric.
Needlework (knitting) is fun in winter.
If you're talking about sewing as a skill or school subject, use 裁縫. For decorative stitching, use 刺繍. For knitting or crochet, use 編み物. 手芸 is a safe catch-all for craft hobbies.