If you’ve landed here, you’re likely seeking some assistance with playing [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ elegant interpretation of the traditional word search game.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands invites players to discover words by linking letters in any direction—upwards, downwards, sideways, or diagonally. In contrast to conventional word searches, the words in Strands can alter their course, creating distinct forms. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution. Every puzzle revolves around a particular theme, and within the grid, you’ll also discover the “spangram”—a unique word or phrase that embodies the theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### A More Difficult Word Game
Differing from *Wordle* or *Connections*, Strands does not offer a word list, resulting in a more intellectually stimulating experience. Players must depend on a vague clue to unveil the words, rendering the game more time-intensive yet fulfilling.
If you find yourself in a bind or simply lack the time to tackle today’s puzzle, we have all the hints you require to proceed at your own speed.
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## Today’s NYT Strands Hint: “In Stitches”
The words featured in today’s puzzle pertain to the act of creating or fixing something.
### Theme Explanation
All the words relate to various methods you might employ a needle and thread.
### Spangram Hint: Orientation
Today’s spangram is located **vertically** in the grid.
### Spangram Answer
Today’s spangram is **NeedleWork**.
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## NYT Strands Word List for March 23
– **Crochet**
– **Patch**
– **Mend**
– **Darn**
– **Embroider**
– **Knit**
– **Baste**
– **NeedleWork**
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### Additional Games and Hints
In search of more daily challenges? Visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for extra hints and solutions. You can also check out [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and beyond.
Missed yesterday’s puzzle? [Discover the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-march-22-2025).