The Community Lacemaking Project
WHAT IS THE COMMUNITY LACEMAKING PROJECT?
The community lacemaking project is a single, large piece of lace that has been exhibited in Sydney in mid 2024. It measures at least three square metres.
A tapestry of small needle lace motifs, designed and pieced together by Maggie Hensel-Brown, but made by hundreds of others.
Needle lace is a centuries old tradition whose practitioners are severely dwindling in numbers. The aim of this community project is to introduce the basic stitches of needle lace to a broad range of new lacemakers, work together in small community sewing groups, and create a single large physical piece. A visualisation of all of the hands and thoughts and moments that have gone into the stitches.
HOW PEOPLE PARTICIPATED
IN PERSON
Maggie hosted a series of sewing circles. Stitchers were introduced to the basic principals of needle lace, and each produced a small motif thas was added to the overall piece. These circles poped up between September 2023 and April 2024, mostly around NSW Australia, but also in other areas around Australia and overseas.
ONLINE
For those unable to make it to any of the in-person sessions, there are digital instructions. Participants can gather materials, download a pattern, and stream a video lesson. They can then post the sampler to Maggie to be joined onto the tapestry.
The video links are now live, and you are welcome to start stitching. Any samplers for the finished project will need to be sent to Maggie by March 15th. Video links and pdf instructions are linked below. All instruction, whether in-person or online, will be free for participants.
