The passing of Jean Lea will leave a huge void in the needlework world, particularly for those who love, reproduce, and stitch samplers. In addition to being a terrific person, Jean was widely known as the owner of The Attic, one of the few true destination needlework shops. Anyone who spent any time with her was quickly immersed in her passion and love for samplers and amazed at her extensive knowledge. For me, the thing that set her apart from others is the role she played putting sampler charts, threads, and linen in the hands of so many stitchers. It was really hard to walk out of that store without at least one sampler to stitch. She was a major part of why samplers are so popular today. Over the years, Fiber Talk did several shows with Jean and, to remember her, I went back through the archives to find one that gives us a true sense of who she was, what she knew, and what samplers meant to her. This video, from Oct. 2021, stood out. I asked her to choose some of her favorites, and I’m sure that was a tall task for Jean, so we could spend 30 min. talking about them. It was great fun recording that show and more enjoyable watching it this week to remember her. I hope you find it to be a good memory of a great lady. Thanks, Jean. RIP—Gary
Here are some links:
We hope you enjoy the show. We’re always looking for guests, so let me know if there is someone you’d like me to have on the show.
To add yourself to our mailing list and be notified whenever we post a new podcast, provide your name and email address below. You won’t get spam and we won’t share your address.
When I first got into the business approximately 43 years ago, Jean was one of the first people that I met at a trade show. Being around Jean made everyone feel so much better as she brought out the best in everyone. Not only was she a dear friend but one of the most compassionate people I have known. She would go out of her way at any time to help others to achieve their goals. Jane will be sorely missed not only by the needlework community but also by the many lives I’m sure she has touched during her life. I will miss her deeply.
Yes, the entire needlework community will miss her.
Gary, So appreciate your showing this video with you and Jean Lea. She was a wonderful ambassador of samplers and needlework. The whole community is saddened by her passing.
What a perfect tribute! Jean talking about what she loved most! I was fortunate to meet Jean once a few years ago. So kind! She will be missed