That Piecework Biscornu

You saw that biscornu that won the PieceWork Excellence in Needle Arts Awards pincushion contest, right? (If not, it's over there <---.) Well, the new PieceWork has the directions for a companion piece, the Blackberry Truffel Tuffet, which I like a little better because it's a little less gaudy. Just a smidge.

You might want to put your thinking cap on because they've announced the 2009 contest: brooches. I can't find the rules online (duh) but I seem to recall that the deadline is April 1. Or thereabouts.

Also they reminded me that you should come to Philadelphia. PMA is exhibiting quilts from Gee's Bend. This exhibit has traveled across America, but this is the last stop. It closes December 14. PMA also recently opened a whole new building devoted to costume and textiles. (You should look through those pages because there is a lot of interesting information about how they created the new storage for the bags and hats and textiles that textile geeks can deeply appreciate. You will also see how absurdly some project conservators dress. Pay attention. There will be a quiz.)

While you're here, you can take the short trip to Lancaster to see Rags to Rugs: Pennsylvania Hooked and Handsewn Rugs at the Lancaster Quilt and Textile Museum; there's lots to see in that area for textile enthusiasts. And eat.