I'm traveling to Amsterdam on KLM in July. I absolutely need to keep my hands busy, and normally it is with hand-sewing (appliqué). Has anyone had success carrying on "hand-work" which required sewing needles? I won't have the scissors (there are other thread-cutting tools available that don't have a sharp point).

I always have a small hotel-type sewing kit in the toiletries pouch in my carry-on, including tiny blunt-end scissors. It's never attracted attention. But what attracts attention can vary, I once had tweezers seized. I suggest you go ahead and try it, maybe just one needle, the smallest you can use, and see what happens. I'd also bring along another busy item, just in case. But I really think you'll be fine with the minimal approach.

Sewing needles and scissors up to 4 inch blades are allowed. Some other cutting devices, such as the daisy type are, oddly, not allowed.

http://quilting.about.com/od/essenti...-Carry-Ons.htm

Remember there isn't much room or light on a plane for doing needlework, at least in cattle class.

Thank you, MmePerdu and hetismij2 for your thoughtful and informative replies! I appreciate your taking the time to answer and will use the information accordingly!

When I was waiting for my Delta (partners with Air France, KLM) flight to Paris a couple of weeks ago, there was a woman who was knitting in the waiting area. I assumed she was going to get on the plane with her long knitting needles, etc. Very surprising to me, but evidently she had gotten past security with them. Would sure make me think that a little needle would be ok, but who knows? Good luck!