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A Labor of Love: Repairing an Orenburg Lace Shawl

For its age, the shawl was in remarkably good condition, but it had a number of noticeable holes and discolored areas. Galina Khmeleva was well aware of the difficulties inherent in working with such a delicate fabric.

Making Round Braids on a Kumihimo Disk

Learn how making braids on a kumihimo disk in 3 moves is fun, portable, and useful. Follow these step-by-step instructions to find out how it’s done.

A Maker’s Marks: The Hexagon-Flower Mending Bag

Studying the details of vintage and antique textiles can lead to many questions, and it helps us learn more about the era they came from.

PieceWork Fall 2020: Mend, Make, and Renew

In the latest issue of PieceWork, we explore how the preservation of textiles, through mending and re-creation, connects us to the past.

Sujnis: Recycling Clothing into Quilts in India

For centuries, the need to create warm bedding together with an endless supply of old clothing has resulted in the production of elaborately embroidered sujnis in Bihar.

Safekeeping: Preserving Needlework Histories—Call for Submissions PieceWork Summer 2021

Send PieceWork your article and project proposals for the Summer 2021 issue, and help us share the stories of treasured textile traditions for future makers.

A Brief History of the Pocket in Women’s Fashion

Pockets—practical, convenient, and sometimes, so mysterious. Find them hidden inside or boldly stitched to the front of a garment.

Buying Lace on a Russian Train

Friends back home had suggested that I purchase lace while in Russia.

Upcycled and Recycled: Dhataniya Dowry Bags

For weddings, it is rare for all dowry items to be made brand new. In this case, an upcycled square piece of textile was embroidered and then folded in half and stitched along the sides to form a small bag.

Costume: Creative Inspiration, Cultural Artifact

Modes of dress are constantly changing, even those that are apparently cemented in tradition.