About

What is Plain Needlework?

[plain needle-work, plain work, plain sewing, hand sewing]

Plain needlework was a term was commonly used to distinguish utilitarian hand sewing  from the sewing techniques necessary in dressmaking, tailoring, or fancywork. It required dexterity and precision rather than design and construction skills, and was used to make underclothing such as shirts and chemises, household linen, or any items that would be frequently laundered.

What is the Lancasterian System? (and what in the world does it have to do with sewing?)

[Lancasterian system of tuition, monitorial system, mutual instruction]

The Lancasterian System of Education, originated by Joseph Lancaster (1778-1838), was a method of incremental education in which students who had mastered a subject assisted those who were still learning. It was applied to needlework as well as reading, writing, and arithmetic, and therefore widely disseminated as the first published method of sewing instruction. Its simplicity and effectiveness made it a model for sewing curricula throughout the nineteenth century.

What is the Plain Sewing Preservation Society?

[society, organization, alliance, fellowship]

The Plain Sewing Preservation Society is a society whose purpose is to preserve plain sewing. It is incorporeal; members need not be. They must, however, have an amiable and courteous disposition because it is a Polite Society. A purchase from our website (Etsy, that is) or notable contribution to our knowledge of plain sewing by providing images, quotes, texts, links, &c. may entitle you to membership and a (corporeal) token thereof. Please inquire.

Who are you?

[female person, wife, mother, sister, friend, teacher]

I am Melissa Roberts and I have been enchanted by plain sewing all my life. My interest in the history of plain needlework instruction has led to researching, collecting, learning, teaching, and writing – not to mention a budget deficit, trifocals, and the exasperation of family. I work as an adult literacy instructor and live in the mountains of north Georgia. You can write to me if you like: m@twothreadsback dot com.

Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.