As the temperature drops in the fall, out come the knitting needles, the quilts, and the cross stitch patterns. There’s something about cold weather in Wisconsin that’s conducive to fiber arts projects, alone or with friends on a chilly day. It’s a great way to express yourself creatively, practice some self-care, or find a community to become a part of.
Madison has a thriving arts community built around the art form, as shown by the Textile Arts Center of Madison, which just opened its new location in south Madison. On the City Cast Madison podcast today, host Bianca Martin talks to Textile Arts Center co-founder Elizabeth Tucker about the community that has grown around the center and the booming fiber arts scene in Madison.
Here are a few other places in Madison where you can either enjoy the work of professional fiber artists, or get some supplies to start making your own.
Check out all the locations on Overlook Maps!
Textile Arts on Display
UW-Madison’s Helen Louise Allen Textile Collection is one of the largest university textile collections in the world with over 13,000 pieces, and this gallery in Nancy Nicholas Hall houses rotating displays from the collection. In 2022 I saw some beautiful pieces there designed by UW students in collaboration with Indian artisans.
This multidisciplinary space has a new exhibit of contemporary fiber arts,”MADE,” now through Nov. 8. “MADE” features a variety of disciplines, including weaving, basket-making, and lace-making – by new and emerging artists.
Where To Get Supplies
As in “make a silk purse out of,” this charming Verona spot may be the Midwest’s first combination yarn shop/coffee shop. In addition to knitting supplies and lattes, the Sow’s Ear offers a full range of classes.
This locally-owned store just celebrated its 45th anniversary of selling needle arts supplies, fine arts supplies, and even offers custom framing when you’re done with your project. They also host “Stitch Ins” where you can get together with other fiber artists to work.
This friendly storefront in Stoughton offers yarn, felt, and spinning supplies as well as a knowledgeable staff to “help you achieve your fiber arts dreams.” They hold plenty of classes and special popups, such as this weekend’s “Mad Town Yarn Shop Hop.”
Where To Learn Your Craft
The college offers a variety of classes for crafters of every skill level. Learn how to crochet, sew, knit – even do some upholstery.
Several members of this collective offer lessons, either for small groups or on a one-on-one basis.
Indulge your creative spark with all kinds of adult enrichment classes through MSCR, including embroidering, sewing, weaving, and crocheting.
