
“A Stitch in
Time”, the companion exhibit to “Threads”, which focuses
on Polish weaving, is now welcoming the public to explore these unique
and colourful traditions.
Since the earliest times when man joined together two pieces of fur
or animal skin to clothe himself, he used his ingenuity to develop stitches
that were both functional and decorative. Through many centuries these
stitches evolved into what we loosely term embroidery or in Polish “haft”.
These stitches were initially functional: to strengthen the construction
of a garment by reinforcing seams and areas of highest wear, such as
collars, cuffs and shirt fronts. Eventually they became ornamental and
characterized differences in class and station, as well as regional,
urban and rural environments.
As raw materials and construction techniques improved, so the embellishment
and embroidery of the costume became more important. The teaching of
embroidery techniques was practised in every home. Young girls would
learn from their mothers and grandmothers how to set stitches in the
traditional themes and styles of their area. The embellishment of table
and bed linens, clothing, tapestries and wall hangings was both necessary
and fanciful. Every woman, both rich and poor, had a dowry that included
linens and clothing pieces. Often whole extra sheets of cloth or linen
were included for possible future use.
Regional characteristics also evolved over time. The display features
examples of this distinctiveness with displays of embroidery from the
regions of Kraków, Podhale, Kaszuby, Lowicz, and Kurpie. The
display is open on Tuesday evenings from 7 – 9 PM and Thursdays
from 11 AM – 3 PM, or by appointment - please call to arrange
a viewing outside these hours.