Learn historic knitting stitches Saturday at museum
MONROE — Historic fiber artist and archivist Donna Casaceli will offer a free 19th-century knitting workshop from 1-3 p.m. Saturday at the Monroe County Museum, 126 South Monroe St.
Casaceli will demonstrate two historic stitches. Intermediate and advanced knitters can register on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants should be able to knit and purl and have familiarity with basic knitting terms and techniques.
Attendees will receive several historical patterns and links for more online resources. Slots are limited, and registration is required. Participants should bring a set of size US 5 knitting needles and a skein of worsted-weight wool.
Casaceli's workshop will highlight the brioche stitch, which enjoyed wide popularity among knitters in the 1850s and then gradually fell out of popularity until recently, the museum said.
"The brioche stitch creates a fluffy, reversible piece, excellent for warm winter wear. The stitch was largely forgotten by the fiber arts community until very recently, but has gained a huge following due to its versatility and look," Casaceli said. She also will demonstrate another stitch found in an 1856 Gentleman’s Comforter pattern.
Casaceli is an archivist for the Birmingham Museum and has more than 25 years of experience in historic textiles. She specializes in the interpretation of historic needlework.
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This workshop is part of the Monroe County Museum System’s YesterWays program, a series of drop-in activities and events that focus on a skill or craft from Monroe County's past. Beginner-friendly activities are held every Saturday. Each month, a different activity is offered.
For more information, visit Monroe County Museum System on Facebook.
This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Learn historic knitting stitches Saturday at museum
