”If you have ever taken out your knitting on a train you will have first-hand experience of the magnetic pull of a ball of wool. There is something about knitting in public that attracts people; their curiosity overwhelms them and before you know it a conversation has connected you. As we have learned over the last year textile making can be a wonderful solo occupation, calming and almost meditative and as ‘revealed’ in a survey sponsored by Fitbit, knitting lowers the heart rate more than any other hobby. But it is the connection textiles have to the community that we are concentrating on in this issue. The relative low cost and simplicity of the equipment and materials needed for textile work make them an ideal catalyst for group projects; everything from a quilting bee to the ambitious furnishing of the iconic Timberline Lodge undertaken by Margery Hioffman Smith and a team of untrained volunteers during the great depression in 1930s America.”

Polly Leonard – Founder & Editor of Selvedge Magazine

Selvedge Magazine – an exploration of the history and culture surrounding textiles. The magazine was founded by Polly Leonard who after studying embroidery and weaving taught textiles for ten years. As well as publishing fascinating stories and imagery in their magazine, Selvedge put on events and fairs where they showcase the work of designers and makers who inspire them.