"The purpose of the Smocking Arts Guild of America is to preserve and foster the art of smocking and related needlework for future generations through education, service, communication and quality workmanship."
It's hard to believe February is already here. Why, it seems only yesterday I was scurrying around to finish smocking orders for Christmas and my schedule is already full of orders for Easter and June weddings. February is a very special month in my life, in more ways than one. Celebrating my birthday the first day in February marks a day where I feel one step further from winter chills and one step closer to renewal during Spring. With each crocus or daffodil bulb that starts peeking from the ground outside in February and much excitement in force-blooming bulbs indoors, I rejoice with the hope of all things new and fresh coming into the new year. February is a sure month to chase away winter blues, and, to top it all off, February also brings my work to light. It is, after all, the month designated as National Smocking Month!
As a self-taught smocker, for the most part, I could never have mastered everything that is involved in smocking without all of the embroidery and sewing skills I learned from my mother (something worth writing about separately). But, in great part, it was looking into the Smocking Arts Guild of America and becoming a member of my local Chapter that made me fall in love with this beautiful art form all over again and it continues to bring me inspiration beyond anything I ever imagined. I am quite excited and proud, therefore, to be a part of SAGA's mission and grateful for the friendships I gained in that process.
If you are in the Charlottesville, Virginia, area, please check in with me here and join my fellow SAGA members in a fun-filled and informative meeting, technique demos/classes, and a sit and sew to see what's behind this beautiful art form and the makings of these beautiful little gowns and bonnets (something worth writing more about in upcoming posts, so make sure you check back next month!)
Infant gowns donated to UVA Hospital (Winter)
Infant bonnets donated to Martha Jefferson Hospital (Spring)
