It’s a strange paradox of our modern age: the more we are tied to technology, the more we yearn to unplug and be present. That’s why it may be no surprise that in in the heart of Silicon Valley, we found a thriving sewing circle where women relish the chance to set aside their mobile phones to stitch, laugh and build community.
What’s a sewing circle?
the old becomes new at a Palo Alto sewing circle. Photo credit: Etsy
Sewing circles have endured for hundreds of years, perhaps because of their simplicity. In earlier times, these gatherings were a practical way that women could help each other make the quilts needed to survive long winter nights.
Obviously a modern sewing group like the one in Palo Alto was not born out of necessity, but instead to spark a sense of connection that often feels missing in our busy lives.
Sewing is tactile and immediate…
“Sewing slows you down and fosters a different way of interacting,” explained Mimi Lyons, one of the founders of the sewing circle. “It’s tactile and immediate, which makes it completely different from using technology.”
Mimi, a native of the Peninsula and a graduate of Stanford University, has been sewing with a small group of friends for since 2000. Most recently, they worked together to create a quilt in support of Hillary Clinton. It became a beautiful, lasting tribute to the first female candidate for president.
Inviting more women to experience the power of sewing
square from the quilt created to support Hillary Clinton’s campaign. Photo credit: Merel Kennedy
With a desire to offer the power and joy of sewing to more women, Mimi and her friends started a sewing circle in Palo Alto last year that quickly attracted over 17 women.
The group, which calls itself AC Stitching, meets twice a month to sew, help each other with projects, and share ideas and conversation. Some women attend regularly, while others are more sporadic.
Hand sewing appeals to both experienced sewers and novices
What’s unique about this group is that they sew everything by hand, a process that eliminates the need for machines and puts the focus on creating items slowly.
The group is named after Alabama Chanin, a company that makes ready- to-use hand sewing kits out of organic cotton and other sustainable fibers. Each woman in the group is working on a different Alabama Chanin project at her own pace.
The more complicated pieces like a skirt or dress could take over a year, while simpler items may take less time. The focus is on the process, and no one seems to care how long it takes to finish.
CoLaunchPad space in downtown Palo Alto offers ideal setting
Janet Brownstone and Mimi Lyons at AC Stitching, the Palo Alto sewing circle
Although traditionally sewing circles met in women’s homes, Mimi wanted to try something different for the Palo Alto group. “I wanted to find a neutral setting that would open up participation to a wider group,” she said. “Luckily we joined CoLaunchPad and it’s been a great place to gather.”
Located in downtown Palo Alto, CoLaunchPad is is a network of individuals, parents and professionals, working together to build and grow enterprises. Members have access to the meeting space and offices at the UnaMesa Association for Community Engagement on Gilman Street.
An old fashioned idea feels modern and new
Lucy Stapleton sews her poncho at the circle in downtown Palo Alto. Photo by Palo Alto Pulse.
“I’ve been sewing for over 50 years but I had never tried hand sewing before,” said Janet Brownstone as she showed us the shirt she is making with an intricate pattern of flowers and leaves. “I love being part of this group and creating together.”
Others are new to sewing but drawn to the social aspect of the group. “This is the kind of social activity that’s right in my comfort zone,” explained Lucy Stapleton, who was making a poncho. “I love the quiet way of connecting with other women that sewing offers.”
