It seems I have discovered something I call needle literacy among these women, and I believe that working-class women\u2014at least those who entered domestic service and had little schooling\u2014maintained or developed their literacy through marking household textiles.
It is a fascinating subject that leads me to write an interdisciplinary thesis, which is very demanding. <\/p>\n
When it comes to embroidery, my favourite techniques are Goldwork, Appliqu\u00e9, Stumpwork, and Blackwork. In fact, I love all embroidery techniques, and I usually choose several for a given project or creation. I currently have several pieces in progress. My projects move slowly since I am focusing on my thesis and working (very) part-time. I\u2019ve always had a needle in my (left) hand. At the age of six, I went to learn embroidery with a group of ladies much older than me\u2014the embroidery group in my hometown Jakobstad, Finland. Since then, I\u2019ve worked on cross-stitch, wool work on canvas, and petit point. In 2002, I attended the intensive summer course at the Royal School of Needlework for two months. I learned the school\u2019s four basic techniques. After eight weeks of intense textile work, I earned the Certificate in Technical Hand Embroidery. In 2009, I began the Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery in modules and completed it in 2012. In 2011, I was part of the RSN embroidery team that worked on the tulle for Miss Kate Middleton\u2019s wedding dress when she married Prince William. For years, I worked professionally as an adult trainer in the textile field, teaching and coaching textile projects. I also hold a Lace Instructor Diploma from the Swiss Lace Federation VSS-FDS<\/a> and taught bobbin lace as well as needle lace\u2014a true passion\u2014for many years. I have also trained in tatting, hand weaving and card weaving, felting, and spinning. I began creating textile art in 2010, when I discovered the technique of appliqu\u00e9. I love mixing techniques in my creations. Honestly, I find it a bit boring to use only one technique when a combination can produce exactly the effects I want! Have a look at my Facebook page MB Marina Berts<\/a>, I’m putting in a few photos and images there. <\/p>\n\n
Visit my professional site Ediwee Edition<\/a>! <\/p>\n
I\u2019ve also continued with ongoing embroidery training, including the excellent online course by Jessica Grimm on medieval embroidery. That was really something\u2014amazing! <\/p>\n
I\u2019m a workaholic\u2026 I never stop. I always have projects on the go. My cupboards are full of unfinished work\u2014maybe yours are too? <\/p>\n
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