The Shippensburg University Women’s and Gender Studies Department’s second annual “Stitch and Bitch” took place on March 17 in the CUB Airport Lounge in honor of Women’s History Month.
During this event, Karin Bohleke, the director of the Fashion Archives & Museum at SU, educated students about the history of women sewing initials into various fabrics. While learning about this part of women’s history, students learned how to cross-stitch their own initials. Each participant had their pick of fabric and string colors, and volunteers made their way around the room to offer assistance.
Corrine Bertram, associate professor of psychology, who helped organize this year’s Stitch and Bitch, emphasized why Women’s History Month matters and why events like this are important.
“It’s important that we celebrate women’s contributions in the world,” Bertram said. “I think Dr. Bohleke and the helpers she brought represent the lost and reclaimed skills that women have.”
Skill levels varied between each participant. Some had lots of experience, while others had never held a needle and thread. Katelyn Hanft, SU senior, already knew how to crochet and embroider, and she was able to add cross-stitching to her list.
“I think that everyone should learn a textile skill and the history behind these crafts,” Hanft said. “This event had me in stitches.”
For more information on future Women’s History Month events, follow @shipuwmst and @shippagecenter on Instagram.
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