Embroidery in the Waldorf Curriculum
Small cross-stitch square
Starting large square
Simply put, embroidery is the art and technique of decorating fabric with a needle and thread. However, there is so much more to be said. Embroidery is observing a renaissance right now.
The start of larger project
Embroidery has a long history. It’s been around for centuries, found in almost all cultures. Before the textile industry existed, people handmade their clothes with needle and thread. At some point they developed an interest in decorating garments as a sign of status, or as we do today - to express themselves. It can be a way to record one’s own story, for social activism, and for protest. Practically, embroidery is also used in “Visible Mending,” to revive our old garments.
In fourth grade, handwork classes are centered around cross-stitch and accuracy. We work artistically with color, form, and symmetry to create beautiful designs for useful everyday objects. Students are required to carefully observe and make thoughtful decisions.
Current neurological research confirms that mobility and dexterity in the fine-motor muscles, especially the hands, stimulate brain development. Additionally, the patience and perseverance that handwork requires, strengthens focus and drive (will-forces).
The fourth-grade students begin the year with creating a small square cross stitch project. They divide the square into fourths and create a beautiful and symmetrical piece. Then they progress to a larger eight-way mirroring project that unfolds, showcasing their own design and color choices. The results are eye-catching and practical book bags. This project, intentionally brought in fourth grade, supports the students as the continue their learning of fractions.
Cross-stitch expands on early sewing skills from projects done in the early childhood classroom and younger grades bringing sewing confidence to the fourth grader which shows in their enthusiasm for it.
Cross-stitch projects in progress
MARCIA DUNCAN
Teacher, Handwork/Applied Arts
Mrs. Duncan has taught handwork at Tamarack since 2001. Throughout life she has maintained a love for working with her hands: handwork, cooking, and gardening. It was her family’s involvement in a Waldorf initiative in Connecticut more then twenty-five years ago that started her on this rich path. Marcia has two adult children.