couching history – Fiber Talk

Podcasts - Videos
Fiber Talk: Couching Techniques with Natalie Dupuis
April 26, 2020 - By Gary Parr
Natalie Dupuis returns to talk about her new research paper “The Humble Couching Stitch,” which takes a look at a…
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Canvas #6: Getting Picky About Perle April 15, 2026
As anyone who has stitched with perle cotton knows, there are some nuances to using the versatile thread, particularly the tendency to twist and untwist. In Canvas #6, we spend a few minutes talking about those nuances. We hope this helps less-experienced stitchers and, as always, there might be a tip or forgotten thing for […]
Gary Parr
Fiber Talk Canvas #5: When Hefty Threads Need Storing April 15, 2026
In the fifth installation of our Canvas series, we talk about different ways to store thick threads such as perle #5 and Watercolours. A lot of our focus is on the excellent products produced by Jenny White of Lucky Jonquil at luckyjonquil.com. We hope our suggestions help and invite you to share how you store […]
Gary Parr
Let Jessica Grimm Expand Your Needlework Horizons April 12, 2026
This week, Jessica Grimm of Acupictrix (https://acupictrix.com/), joins us for a conversation about her completely revamped workshops, online classes, additional content, and needleworker online community. She is likely the top educator and designer in the medieval and ancient gold work and embroidery world. Her newly organized offerings make it possible to subscribe and have access […]
Gary Parr
Midweek Chat: What Do You Call Those Stitches? April 9, 2026
Wednesday has made an appearance once again so Cindy and Gary seized the opportunity to talk about needlework. Our list of topics include decorative/specialty stitches (tell us what you think in the comments), making Dorset buttons, #12 perle cotton, paying attention to instructions, counted-canvas needlework, using glue sticks on fray-prone threads, and an upcoming collaboration […]
Gary Parr
Poppy Monk Opens the Door to Needlepoint April 5, 2026
Brenda Stimpson formed Poppy Monk Needlepoint Kits to provide a way for stitchers to learn and advance their skills. A big part of that approach is printed canvases that make needlepoint affordable. Combining those carefully crafted designs with quality threads and thorough instructions lowers the entry barriers and allows stitchers of all ages and skill […]
Gary Parr