During the Victorian era (roughly 1850-1920), Haudenosaunee women created elaborately beaded souvenir items, known as "whimsies," for sale to tourists, particularly at popular destinations like Niagara Falls.  The strawberry pincushion was a very popular form, often incorporating raised beadwork, where beads were sewn on fabric (often velvet) to create a three-dimensional effect.

In this class, you’ll stitch by hand alongside, Tuscarora artist Tina Mt. Pleasant as she guides you through project and shares the cultural significance of this craft.

SUPPLIES:
All tools, supplies, and equipment will be provided.

PREREQUISITES:
Basic hand-sewing skills are helpful. If you use reading glasses or magnifiers for close work, we suggest bringing them.

INSTRUCTOR:
Tina Mt. Pleasant is a traditional Tuscarora beadwork artist and has been creating for over thirty-five years. She has had many teachers throughout her years of beading, including many elders from her nation. At the age of 13 she started to sew and create her traditional Haudenosaunee clothing. Today she continues to work with both mediums on a regular basis and takes custom orders to create Haudenosaunee traditional clothing that gets worn all across North America.

SUSTAINABILITY:
Stitch Buffalo is committed to fostering sustainability practices and reducing waste in the textile industry. In this workshop, we will strive to minimize waste and work as much as possible with supplies that have been rescued for reuse.

INCLUSION & ACCESSIBILITY:
Stitch Buffalo is an ADA compliant facility, with accessible entrances, tables, restrooms, and drinking fountains. Please contact us if you require any accommodations to make your visit safe and comfortable. We are happy to work with you!

CANCELLATION POLICY:
Due to the nature of this class and the preparation required, class fees are non-refundable.

For each class, Stitch Buffalo offers one seat at half-price to a student or community member who otherwise could not afford to attend. To inquire about availability, please e-mail us. We have waiting lists for many classes, so if you register for this discounted class, please consider it a commitment to attend.