This article was contributed by member, Bonnie A.
When a Girl Guide leader reached out to North Shore Needle Arts to ask if we might spend some time teaching her group a bit of stitching, it was an easy yes. Margo and I were both excited by the idea—but we didn’t quite realize just how special the experience would turn out to be.
We were told there would be a possible number of 16 participants and then it was suggested the Pathfinders would be invited to join in for the evening session giving us a total of 30. Sure…we can do this!
We prepared 30 small supply packages for each consisting of several pieces of coloured felt with a grommet in one corner and a releasable ring on which they could keep their samples. On one piece of felt in each package Margot had basted the outline of an egg as Easter was on the near horizon. Also included were two #22 tapestry needles (which worked well on felt) rather than sharp Chenille needles , a needle threader, a small instruction book, several 18” strands of #8 or #5 perle cotton in various colours wound on cards, a few beads, buttons and the small round pieces of felt from punching the grommets into the felt, and a spool of regular sewing thread for adding the beads.
On the evening itself, we were lucky to have additional volunteers join us. Included in the volunteer crew were me, Margot C, Krystina M., Karen M., Melanie Z. and Linda S.. In the end, about 20 Guides and Pathfinders attended, which turned out to be just right—and having the extra helping hands made all the difference.
From the moment we began, the room had a wonderful energy. We had planned to introduce just a few basic stitches over the course of the 1-1/2 hour session, but the girls had other ideas. They picked things up quickly and were eager to try more. Before long, they were asking about—and learning—buttonhole stitch, French knots, chain stitch, cross stitch, and even how to add beads to their work. They were attentive and confident, involved in what they were doing, sharing with each other, and eager to learn.
What really stood out was their enthusiasm. They were focused, curious, and happy to share ideas with one another. There was a lot of conversation about how they might use these new skills—adding embroidery to jean jackets or stitching designs onto pink sneakers. It was clear their creativity had been sparked.
At the end of the evening we were presented with hand made thank you cards which was truly delightful. This was a lovely gesture but also we were pleased in their awareness of craft. The Guide Leaders are to be highly commended for their leadership of this very lovely group of girls.
It was one of those experiences that stays with you. Would we do it again? You bet we would and we encourage anyone who has the opportunity to engage a group of young people in needlework/stitching/embroidery to jump at the chance. Sharing needlework in this way felt meaningful—for them and for us.