Annette Eyre of Old Forge, a member of the Mohawk Valley Branch of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, is currently selling tickets for a chance to win a framed embroidery piece created by the group.
Proceeds from the raffle will benefit Hall House, a home for battered women and children in Utica. Two years ago, the embroidery group conducted a similar raffle to benefit Hope House, a soup kitchen in Utica.
The embroiderers used a variety of stitches in creating the unique piece of handiwork including the hardanger satin stitch—which creates a lacy look—back stitches, cross stitches, pull thread and others.
Eyre said she got into needleworking in her late 40’s as an alternative to another interest: learning to ride a motorcycle ride. After driving the motorcycle of her daughter’s boyfriend, she announced to her husband Art that she was going to get her motorcycle license.
But Art suggested she find something “more lady-like” to occupy her time.
“So, I took quilting lessons, embroidery lessons, organ lessons, flower arranging lessons—I took lessons of every kind! And actually, it turned out well,” she laughed.
The embroidery piece will be on display and tickets available for sale on Sunday, December 2 at the North Woods Community Center during the Mason’s Breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon.
Tickets are $1 each or six for $5 and can also be purchased directly from Eyre or by calling fellow embroiderer Mary Farmer at (315) 369-6498.
