Stuff You Missed in History Class Behind the Scenes Minis: Embroidery Love Letter
Jan 23, 2026
They reminisce about first embroidery memories and how museum pieces and costumes sparked deep obsessions. They trade stories of recreating on-screen designs and studying historic dragon robes. Conversation touches on guilds, formal teaching decline, and amusing stitching disruptions from cats. Plans and renewed motivation for new projects, patterns, and crafty reorganizing round out the chat.
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Museum Sparked A Lifelong Obsession
- Holly recalls obsessively studying dragon robes and Chinese embroidery after a 2008 Chicago exhibit that reignited her passion.
- She describes how seeing silk threads catch the light in person made her fall deeply in love with embroidery.
Recreating Leia’s Bespin Dress
- Holly traveled to Houston and sat in front of Princess Leia's Bespin dress for hours to document its stitching and recreate the pattern.
- She later uploaded her hand-drawn pattern and it circulated widely among costume communities.
Late Nights, Dragon Ball Z, And Supportive Boss
- Holly embroidered late into the night while listening to commentary and watching Dragon Ball Z during a costume project.
- Her boss allowed after-hours embroidery at work so she could continue the project, which she remembers fondly.