Possible Clues:

• Did needlework
• Me: 'How about the clue 'Used needles,' Ella?' Ella: 'No, new needles. You have to use them because it affects the fabric more than you expect.'
• Used a needle and thread
• Embroidered, say
• Hemmed a skirt, say
• Did darning
• Basted, perhaps
• Worked on a shift, maybe
• Worked with needle and thread
• Fixed a seam