Needlecraft, note, lacking the more elevated 'ton' (7)
I believe the answer is:
crochet
'needlecraft' is the definition.
(crochet is a kind of needlecraft)
I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for crochet that I've seen before include "Genteel pastime" , "Make fabric with a hook" , "Decorative work using loops" , "piece of handiwork" , "Use a hooked needle to make garments" .)