“All handworked cloth is story cloth; it can’t help but be.” Veronica Patterson, Notions: From the Editor, PieceWork, September/October 1993, 2
Dear Readers,
I am thrilled to be able to celebrate the 30th anniversary of PieceWork magazine with you. Over the years, we have had the privilege of being able to explore the rich history and cultural traditions of needlework and to share them with you. Your loyalty, interest, and curiosity have inspired the content of each issue, and we thank you.
We are grateful for the valued contributors and designers who have introduced us to stories and projects with a variety of topics, ranging from the history of indigo dyeing in West Africa to the knitting of Lithuanian wrist warmers, all the while reminding us of the context and the human element behind each creation—the personal threads that connect us all.
Learn blackwork and couching in this stitching project from Melinda Sherbring. Photo by Matt Graves
Throughout this journey, we have also been reminded of the significant role that needlework has played in the lives of women and men. Needlework has served as a means of sustenance, communication, community, and empowerment throughout history and across continents.
As we enter this milestone, we are reminded of the evolving role that needlework plays in our lives today. Our stitches tell stories: connections to the past, insight into the lives of others, and expressions of creativity. In 2023, we are now able to share our stitched stories to a larger audience and in ways that were not imaginable in 1993.
Shirley Paden’s Charlotte Capelet. Photo by Matt Graves
I’m happy to say that as the internet has bridged language barriers, there are new stories that are being uncovered every day, and we are excited to see what the next decade will bring for our readers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced needleworker, we will continue striving to ensure that the PieceWork community will continue to inspire and educate you for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Pat and the team at Long Thread Media
Get the Fall 2023 issue today!
Pat Olski is the editor of PieceWork.