The world of Jewish fabric crafts is explored in a new book, “Jewish Threads: A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts” (Jewish Lights Publishing). The book presents 30 projects created by artisans from the United States and Israel.
Some of the crafts presented, such as Torah mantles and challah covers, are deeply rooted in Jewish heritage, while others, including Purim puppets, an ushpizin (visitors) quilt and a knit seder plate for Passover, play off centuries of tradition while incorporating a contemporary spin.
Among the fabric craft techniques represented are quilting, needlepoint, knitting, crochet, felting, embroidery, appliqué, needle felting and counted cross-stitch.
Compiled and written by Diana Drew with Robert Grayson, “Jewish Threads” provides tales about how each piece was created, along with step-by-step instructions to help readers fashion the items individually or in groups.
