The sewing machine is inextricably intertwined with women's history. Though seamstresses were usually badly paid, and worked in bad conditions, seamstressing and sewing have always been among the ways for women to make a living. What I wouldn't give to know how to cut and sew!
In the Olympian religion, spinning, weaving and the thread were the province of the Goddess Athene. Athene the weaver was called Εργάνη Αθηνά (Ergane Athena), the Athene who protected weavers, crafts and craftsmen/women.
In the Christian religion, tradition has it that the beautiful scarlet robe Christ wore had been woven with special care by his mother, the Virgin Mary herself! For this reason the robe was excessively beautiful, and the Roman soldiers threw a dice upon it. Saint Marcellus, who won, was converted to Christianity, having experienced visions and intense emotions after wearing the robe.
The thread of cloth goes a long way back, to religion, history and sacred traditions. I learnt sewing at school but I have forgotten everything about it. Now I study and write about sewing academically. However, re-learning the craft is in my "to-do" list!
Have a good evening and be well! xxx
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