Good works are a major effort. We stitch samplers for the new owners of Habitat for Humanity homes, sponsor Christmas in July with gifts and supplies for a local children’s shelter, collect items for the homeless, and cross-stitch "Kissing Pillows" for deploying military members.

Education is important to ensure the continuation of the Guild; and to pass on embroidery knowledge. We educate ourselves through classes, workshops, and visiting teachers. We educate others through our long-standing summer program for kids at a local library. Last year we delivered a program at the Ruth Funk Textile Museum at the Florida Institute of Technology's Melbourne Campus.

A recent class for our members was a stitched and painted map of Florida, designed especially for us and taught in a two-day class by noted embroiderer Catherine Jordan of Virginia. 

Our Chapter is very lucky to have three national-level teachers, several regional teachers, two certified teachers, two master craftsmen, and one woman who has professionally published her books. It was only through our association with the national EGA that these women were able to grow in their craft.

This organization, both at the chapter level and the national level, is the perfect place for women and men, interested in needle arts, to learn and grow. All are welcome.”

Thank you Lee for a lovely description of your group’s activities. It sounds like a lively, warm and friendly group. Well done to all of you for creating such an excellent environment for learning and fellowship.

If you live in the area, you are most welcome to jump in and make some new friends. To learn more click HERE.

Ginette, it’s hard to tell where your season of beginner stitching started and finished because each of your projects from Trish Burr look like they were created by the hand of a much-experienced stitcher! We’re honoured for the part we’ve played in your embroidery journey to date and look forward to seeing where it takes you next.

I have enjoyed discovering the wealth of materials that are available now, and although being an octogenarian last year undertook Needle Lace and Casaguildi courses and also did some ribbon work which was new to me as well. I must admit that I prefer traditional work, but always having a needle of some description in my hand I can honestly say that you are never too old to learn! Elsie – UK.’

Elsie, a lifetime of experience with needle and thread has given you the skills and confidence to create a fabulous rendition of Jenny McWhinney’s ‘The Bobbin Tree’ from Inspirations #96. You are an inspiration to keep learning, no matter how far along the embroidery journey we find ourselves!

If Elsie has inspired you to create your own Bobbin Tree, printed copies of Inspirations #96 are still available, or you can purchase the project as a digital pattern.