Embroidery, knitting and crochet: techniques from the past? This traditional handicraft finds its way back on the catwalk, in the streets and on social media. It connects, gives strength and helps to express emotions.

In the new exhibition Continue This Thread, Amsterdam fashion designers Karim Adduchi and Tess van Zalinge explore the power of handicraft as guest curators. Based on their own vision, they make connections between the collection of the Amsterdam Museum, work by makers from the city, and supplement it with their own creations.

Much more than textiles and technology
Carrier of personal messages and communal identity, therapeutic tool, guide to a more sustainable fashion industry and beacon of comfort. All of this can be done by hand, according to Karim Adduchi and Tess van Zalinge. They set to work as guest curators of the Amsterdam Museum.

It wasn’t the party dresses or other top pieces that they immediately fell for. On their first visit to the museum’s depot, they immediately pulled a concertina folder off the shelf. The 19th-century object does not look very exciting, but it is filled with 97 test pieces for various handicraft techniques. The portfolio shows dedication and represents many hours of intensive work. And it inspires, just like the beautiful handicrafts of today.

To do: a series of Threads
Embroider the exhibition with us and come along (on one of the) three Saturdays to watch, listen and make. With a speed tour, workshops and a talk, we explore three pillars during the various Threads together with fashion heritage platform Modemuze: healing, expression and connection.

Continue This Thread, until 3 September, Amsterdam Museum, Amstel 51