What were the stitchers of the 1800s making? Which fabrics and threads were they using, and which techniques were the most exciting? Which items were they creating? We would love to hear stories about a variety of needle crafts, and interesting projects based on early nineteenth-century traditions. Show us proposals that encompass textiles from crafters all over the globe, such as Lithuania knitted socks, Brazilian lace, Malaysian Nyonya embroidery, and Ethiopian metal threadwork.
Court Robe, Qing dynasty (1644-1911), China, Silk, metallic thread on silk, 43 1/2 x 63 in. (110.5 x 160 cm). Gift of Mrs. C.N. Phillips, 1962, photo courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art
PieceWork’s primary focus has always been a commitment to value the needlecraft traditions of the past. Please send us your submissions for the Spring 2025 issue that illustrate a method or a heritage practice that was in practice during the early to mid-nineteenth century. We are seeking well-researched articles that explore various aspects of needlework during the early 1800s worldwide, including topics such as:
- Unusual needlework tools or handmade accessories, such as gaming bags, that were in vogue during the era.
- Enduring needlework traditions and their cultural significance in different parts of the world.
- The evolution of needlework techniques and styles during the 1800s.
Nineteenth-century cross-stitch sampler, Mexico, Bequest of Gertrude M. Oppenheimer, 1981-28-359. Photo courtesy of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Please send us your project ideas and your story proposals of Italian tailoring, Finnish knitting, Native American weaving, Mexican embroidery, or any other world or historical technique that gives context and embodies the most popular crafts of the early to mid-1800s. We are looking forward to seeing your ideas!
We welcome submissions from everyone, from experienced stitchers and enthusiastic beginners to researchers passionate about the historical significance of textile techniques.
Forms and information:
Online Submissions Form PieceWork Spring 2025
PieceWork Contributor’s Guidelines
Questions? Contact us at [email protected].
Submissions due: April 22, 2024
We will notify you of our decision: May 2024
If selected, your finished articles and projects are due by July 29, 2024
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