Sewing: Core Facts and Historical Overview

Sewing is a craft that involves fastening pieces of textiles together using a needle and thread. It is one of the oldest textile arts, with origins tracing back to the Paleolithic era. Before the invention of spinning yarn or

weaving fabric, Stone Age people across Europe and Asia sewed fur and leather clothing using bone, antler, or ivory sewing needles and thread made from animal body parts such as sinew, catgut, and veins. Sewing has evolved over time, incorporating both hand and machine techniques.

Core Facts

Sewing is a universal craft that dates back to the Paleolithic era, approximately 30,000 BC. It was initially used to stitch together animal hides for clothing

and shelter. Indigenous peoples, such as the Inuit, used sinew from caribou for thread and needles made of bone. Sewing predates the weaving of cloth and has been a fundamental process in various industries, including shoemaking, upholstery, sailmaking, and bookbinding.

Notable Details

Sewing has been adapted to share knowledge of traditional methods through technology. For example, self-paced online tutorials have enabled a Malay

sewing class to learn how to tailor and sew a traditional men's Baju Kurung garment in three days, compared to five days in a traditional class setting. This demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of sewing techniques across different cultures and time periods.

Comparisons and Contrasts

While sewing is often associated with clothing and household linens, it is also used in a variety of crafts and industries. The methods and materials used in

sewing can vary significantly depending on the purpose, such as using sophisticated sewing methods to assemble tipi shelters or combining sewing with weaving plant leaves to create baskets in Africa.

Key Data Points

Sewing machines can create various stitches, including lockstitch and overlock. These machines have revolutionized the sewing process, making it faster and more efficient. The craft of sewing continues to be an

essential skill in both traditional and modern contexts, reflecting its enduring significance in human culture.