The Point of the Needle
Why Sewing Matters
Barbara Burman
Reaktion Books
Why do we sew? Is it for dry cold need, a mend of a garment, an object, a dress we cannot afford to buy in a clothes store; or is there some magic behind the act in itself? This title delves into more than the depth of the fibre of cloth and gives evidence why sewing is a matter of more than a moment or a far-gone memory of a past time.
Each chapter holds its own currency. I particularly enjoyed the real life experiences of mothers, teaching their children this art form during lockdown. The children’s comments about this time and use of ones’ time were enlightening to the society we are bringing into the word - thoughts of making ones’ head right - why this though enters a child’s’ head at such a flourishing age of youth does hold its concerns. Yet if a stitch can make it better - why not?
No, making our own clothes is no longer a cheap activity. In a world where time is of the essence and fast fashion is juts accepted as the way to go…why sew? This title make we question my core thoughts, why I am the artist I am, why I create and yes, why a stitch seems to be as well known to my hand as the fingers I own. Will it do the same for you?
This book isn’t about the wearable, it isn’t about one element of sewing or genre. It is timely and key to our lives, yet timeless in its documentation of this subject. It is about sewing as an act of not necessity, it is a lean to, a support for the very fibres of our humanistic being.
It is an act of love, to impart this skill if we have it in our possession. It is an act of love in turn to ourselves inwardly, if we allow ourselves the time to stitch, without a reason to do so…in my own words - to make happy. Because that is what stitching is to be. It is my own way of making sense of the world, it is my security. I have held a needle in my hand at times when life was slipping away and in turn, coming back to me. It is a survival mechanism, not just for a piece which requires repair - for ourselves, who also may need repair. It is inherent. It-just-is. Cut me open and you will find a mix of sharp pen and needle points, glinting in the skin core of me.
I have only touched upon a few factors which I personally found delightful and alternatively thought provoking. You may as a reader chance on another part of this title which captures you. For example take Chapter 7, which weaves a political narrative.
So. Why does sewing matter to you? I wager there will be more to it than a simple selection of a hobby.