I am just getting over jetlag as I write this, having returned a week ago from hosting the first-ever Threads trip to the Netherlands. I was joined by 18 avid sewists and textile enthusiasts from across North America and Europe, and together we learned about everything from the history of the Dutch Golden Age to sustainable wool production.

The highlight of our trip was a master class with Saskia ter Welle of the Dutch Couture Academy in Doesburg. She welcomed us with the warmest hospitality and treated us to an incredible three days of exploring our creativity as we learned couture design and embellishment techniques. Led by Saskia, we got to know each participant’s personal style and approach to making, from cautious to freewheeling. We cheered each other on as we learned to trust our own skill and design point of view.

Our shared love of textile arts brought us together on the trip, and it gave us ways to appreciate and learn from different perspectives. That’s a key part of the creative mindset. I’m grateful to have experienced this with Saskia and the talented and convivial “Class of 2024.”

In this issue, you’ll find inspiration and know-how for many sewing projects—I invite you to peruse and, perhaps, learn from each article. I do encourage you, in particular, to read Michelle Loggins’s story on sewing for charity; it’s an uplifting call to action for anyone seeking meaningful ways to use their sewing skills.

— Carol J. Fresia, Editor