The women turned up to Toitū Otago Settlers Museum on Saturday to celebrate by crafting together while sharing stories and material.
Otago Embroiderers’ Guild president Anne Jaquiery, a guild member for more than 25 years, said she enjoyed the creativity and diversity of the practice.
‘‘There is so much you can learn.
‘‘It’s all about patience, that’s central to it ... but it’s also very good for the mind. If you get a good, long piece it can be quite relaxing.’’
The guild has about 65 to 80 members and usually holds sessions each Saturday at the Leith Valley Bowling Club.
It was holding a public day on October 10 for people to learn more about the practice, in which a piece could take up anything from a day to a ‘‘lifetime’’, Mrs Jaquiery said.
Dunedin Spinners and Weavers Guild president Susan Butt said she enjoyed the time it took to weave or spin a good piece.
‘‘It can be quite meditative ... the Navajo Indians considered the practice a form of prayer.
‘‘But of course, we enjoy each other’s company.’’
Christine Cooper, who had been knitting and weaving since she was ‘‘about 6’’, said she enjoyed working with the fibres to create garments.
‘‘You can put your creative stamp on things ... but my family have always knitted.’’
