In 2014, the local chapter is embarking on an ambitious three-year program exploring various kinds of fibers and fabrics. Cotton will be featured in 2014; subsequent years will feature silk, linen and wool.
Monthly meetings include both informational programs and work time.
The Dayton chapter’s main meetings are held at 10 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at Community United Methodist Church in Dayton, with lunch afterward at a nearby restaurant. The “Saturday Stitchers” meet at 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month at Christ United Methodist Church in Kettering. And the “Satellite Stitchers” meet at 9:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church in Springfield.
Each group follows its own format to an extent. Springfield’s stitchers will focus on various embroidery stitches and their uses in 2014. The main Dayton group will have opportunities to view a collection of replica period garments from the 1500s to the 1900s eras, hear from the owner of a Mason sewing shop, and enjoy a “Stitch Away” weekend at Shaker Village in Kentucky. Projects in 2014 will focus on the use of cotton floss and fabric in traditional hand embroidery.
Members range from beginners to experts, and projects allow for simplicity or detail as each stitcher prefers. Members may also opt out of projects if they wish.
For example, at one meeting in the spring, members will be given a cocktail napkin and the outline of a butterfly. Newbies will learn how to transfer the pattern onto the napkin. Then, each member will be told to “do your own thing” – make the butterfly as simple or complex as desired.
The group’s goals, according to program and education co-chair Ann Madges of Miamisburg, include carrying on the tradition of embroidery and supporting local shops that sell sewing supplies.
For information or to join, visit ega-dayton.webs.com or call 937-305-1637 (Wednesday and Saturday Stitchers) or 937-767-1910 (Satellite Stitchers).
About the Author