BLOWING ROCK, N.C. (August 2022) – Visitors to The Mountain Thread Company in Blowing Rock will often find the owner, Katherine Lile, enthusiastically sharing her crafting knowledge with curious and aspiring crafters. In Zigzag Rope Sewing Projects, available this September, Katherine shares even more of her unique expertise.
A fourth-generation quilter, Katherine Lile began sewing rope baskets as complementary projects to other sewing and quilting work. In 2015, she opened The Mountain Thread Company, a studio-shop where she creates and sells her works along with locally-sourced supplies for rope baskets, quilts, and other textile art.
“I love the traditions that get passed on with handmade items,” Katherine says. “The Mountain Thread Company– and the book– is about fostering those traditions and the care felt in handmade items.” The shop quickly gained a reputation as a place of sharing and kinship in crafting. Over the years, The Mountain Thread Company has hosted workshops, spearheaded a Quilting Collective, and even presented Artisan Markets. When she was approached about writing a book, Katherine was excited about the opportunity to inspire more appreciation for coiled rope art.
“I want to continue to offer more in-depth answers and guidance as well as fresh new ideas for useful things to make,” Katherine says. “I love the process of making something from start to finish and creatively using colors and techniques. Zigzag Rope Sewing Projects offers a unique approach to the process, building new skills with every project.”
Katherine’s approach to coiled rope basketry remains heavily influenced by her love of quilting. She’s inspired by both traditional and contemporary quilt styles as she designs new products. Her unique style is evident in each of the 16 projects detailed in the book, where fresh techniques are made accessible for everyone.
“This is a technique that crafters and makers can do with the home sewing machine they already have,” Katherine explains. “There is a comprehensive reference section along with step by step photos for each project.”
The launch party for Zigzag Rope Sewing Projects takes place on Saturday, September 24, 2022 from 10am to 4pm at The Mountain Thread Company, located at 1098 Main Street in Blowing Rock. Along with a book signing by the author, there will be demonstrations of projects from the books, giveaways, refreshments, and a silent auction of book projects benefiting local schools.
More information about the book launch party, along with book pre-orders, is available at www.themountainthreadcompany.com/book