It all began with a piece of pottery.

I spotted the relatively small, stout jug and loved the way it shouted joy. I didn’t realise it was special. There was just something about the bright colours and the way the flowers had been painted that made me instantly love it.

Then, when I felt it, turned it over and looked at its mark I realised this was a Mak Merry pot - symbol of Suffrage for women living and working in rural Scotland during the 1920s.

Gathering Strength

On Saturday 2nd December, 35 people took part in a Festive Stitch & Bitch. They had travelled from all over Edinburgh, from Dunfermline and from the Borders to sew and make beautiful gifts. With teachers, doctors, writers, administrators and designers attending, we had most professions covered and it made for a brilliant event.

It was the Mak Merry pot that made me understand this kind of gathering was needed.

During the whole of the afternoon and into the early evening, extraordinary creativity and talk flowed. New connections and friends were made and as with all our events, money (over £4000) was raised for The Super Power Agency.

The Women Who Came Before Us

Stitch & Bitch was inspired by an industrious and determined group of women who came together under the banner of The Scottish Women’s Rural Institute. The Institute was founded in 1917 by Catherine Blair in the town of Macmerry, 13 miles to the east of Edinburgh.

Catherine was a Suffragist who campaigned for Votes for Women. She also knew that developing an income stream was a way for women to become increasingly independent. And so, in 1920, ‘Mak Merry’ was established as the Trading Arm of the Institute. A range of craft and homemade products was created by the group and by the 1920s, this included painted pottery.

It was not until 1928 that women over the age of 21 gained the same voting rights as men. But in that time, in addition to continuing their vigorous campaigning, leaders such as Catherine enabled women to come together and form a different future for themselves.

Pins & Needles

From a very young age I have loved to sew. The focus needed for the task calms my mind. As I stitch, thoughts and ideas step forward in a measured, almost meditative way and although the end-product can be useful, it is always highly decorative and layered with love.

Throughout the centuries, women have used stitching and embroidery to tell their histories and express their creative talents. To outsiders, it may look like a gentle pastime but, there is quiet rebellion at its heart.

Stitch & Bitch events are certainly not quiet but they are occasions that stream wisdom and laughter. They are supported by brilliant suppliers who donate fabric, cotton and ribbon. We even feast on stunning and deliciously tasty treats given by a brilliantly talented baker.

Together we work carefully to make gifts for ourselves or loved ones and while that happens, lanterns of hope are lit and plans for change are made. All thanks to the women who came before us.