Stitch ‘n’ Such, a sewing group at the Jones County Public Library, showcased the history of sewing for Women’s History Month.
Angie Hunt, who leads the group, said she was excited to start Stitch ‘n’ Such at the library. She said showcasing the history of sewing skills is important.
“We sit, visit and stitch here at the library. It’s fun to share ideas and gossip,” she said. “This group is cathartic for most of us. It’s good to talk and have a way to occupy your mind for a while with others.
It’s like therapy. I just put it out there about Stitch ‘n’ Such and people came, so it’s been a great experience having this group of ladies here.”
She said Stitch ‘n’ Such is important for Jones County, because it offers comradery, companionship and knowledge to each of the ladies in the group. She said history needs to be preserved, and skills such as sewing, knitting and crocheting don’t need to be forgotten.
“These skills connect us to our past and the family that came before us. We have these memories. I remember watching my grandma, and just having that time with her as she would embroider something is a great memory. We don’t want to miss out on those treasures,” Hunt said.
The group leader said the ladies sew and stitch things such as table cloths, afghans, shawls, flags, quilts, and more. She said most of the ladies crochet and cross stitch. She said she sees Stitch ‘n’ Such being around for a while, since the group seems to have a steady number of people who have joined it.
“Everyone said it’s been such a blessing to be here. The library has been very supportive of our group by allowing us to hold these meetings here,” she said. “March is Women’s History Month, and there’s nothing to exemplify women’s history more than needle work, because women used to have to sew their clothing, make quilts, and do other things.”
Hunt said sewing has changed over the years, and it’s important to showcase that in women’s history. She said women have been sewing for their families for a long time, and it’s something people should see and hear about.
She said Stitch ‘n’ Such has been in operation at the Jones County Library since August, and it hasn’t slowed down. She said not all of the ladies in the group are from Jones County, but they are happy to travel to the library to attend the sessions. She said they welcome anyone who would like to join in on the meetings. The next session will be April 18 at 2 p.m.
“My favorite thing about this group is meeting people who share the same interest as I do,” Hunt said. “I’m glad these ladies enjoy preserving these arts and continuing their craft. This group helps get your mind off of the world, and we get to remember the women in our families through sewing.”
