The Needlework Tool Collectors Society of Australia (NTCSA) began in 1987 in Melbourne, growing from the enthusiasm and interests of two sisters, Katrina and Jenny, who gathered together their friends and fellow collectors to form the Society.
When travelling interstate, they would arrange to have afternoon tea with other collectors, inviting them to join. As numbers grew, it became possible to hold larger events, the first of which was a Conference (then called The Corroboree to give it an Australian flavour) and has been held continuously every second year.
The rest, as they say, is history.
Another person who contributed to the growth in other States was Nerylla Taunton. Nerylla’s name is well known to the society, and to many others worldwide, from her wonderful publications that have become leading References works – Antique Needlework Tools and Embroideries (1997) and Chatelaines: Utility to Glorious Extravagance( (1994) which she co-authored with Genevieve Cummins.
Now, more than 30 years later, many others who share their delight have made it a Society that reaches beyond its original geographic foundation and has members around Australia, as well as in New Zealand, the USA, Europe and in the UK.
All share an interest in needlework tools and other associated areas that may have led them to this field. Among them you’ll find embroiderers, lace makers, costumiers, history lovers, writers, and collectors who enjoy other interests such as china, Christmas, silver – you name it, and someone likely has a collection in that area.
Members’ needlework tool interests cover a wide range that includes antique, vintage, modern and handmade needlework tools.
Our Guest Speaker at the Museum on Saturday, 1st October at 2:00 pm will be Kerry Easton from the Society who will introduce us to Needlework Tools Through the Ages. Make a note in your diary now.
