When I meet Threads readers “in the wild,” I am always struck by a common characteristic: curiosity. Whether they are garmentmakers obsessed with the perfect fit, embellishment enthusiasts, quilters, or all-around textile artists, they always want to know more. They are eager to make connections between what they know and what is still to be learned.

Our authors are of the same type, and it is a joy to see how they constantly challenge themselves to discover and master new skills.

For example, we know Susan Khalje as a teacher of fine, mostly French, couture sewing techniques. But did you realize that she is also an avid student and collector of Central Asian textiles? Duane MacLeod, an accomplished self-taught sewer, decided to dive into professional training in bespoke tailoring as his post-retirement next chapter. Teacher and designer Brooks Ann Camper shares how thoughtful swatching is a textile education that every sewist can enjoy and  benefit from. Each of these authors imparts their expertise in Threads #227, Fall 2024.

By definition, all our writers are teachers, sharing their considerable expertise in a range of textile topics. But they are also lifelong learners who, like those of you who read our magazine, relish figuring things out. Above all, they’re not afraid to admit they don’t know everything. That just means there’s more to discover—and more fun to be had in the process.

— Carol J. Fresia, Editor