About EGA:
EGA is and educational organization devoted to the heritage and art of embroidery.
The Embroiderers' Guild of America is made up of:
- 13 regions across the USA and Canada
- 340 chapters plus 1 cyber chapter
- international representation at around 16,000 members
Purpose Statement:
The EGA website states "The purpose of this organization shall be to foster the highest standards of excellence in the practice of the art of embroidery through an active program of education and study and to preserve the heritage of the art of embroidery."
Brief History:
The Embroiderers' Guild of America started first in 1958 as a branch of The Embroiderers' Guild of London. In 1970, EGA broke away from this group, and became the independent organization that it is today.
EGA's Website:
The Embroiderers' Guild of America website hosts an impressive range of helpful information. From membership options, to online class details, free projects, links, outreach opportunities, and scheduled events including exhibits, the website will prove to be informative and interesting at every level.
Embroidery Museum:
The Embroidery Museum and Resource Center, has free admission, and is open to the public.
It houses over 900 pieces for education and exhibit. Made possible by donations, the collection is made available in the embroidery museum on a rotating basis.
The Margaret Parshall Gallery changes quarterly, and features work from many artists. This gallery offers some pieces for sale, with a portion of proceeds to benefit EGA.
The Leslie Durst Gallery shares pieces from EGA's permanent collection, and pieces from private collections.
There are additional exhibits throughout the year, and in different locations.
Membership:
EGA Membership is open anyone interested in needlework, whether novice or expert.
Some benefits for membership include:
- Participation in local groups, or in "member at large" status. Also available is an online membership option known as CyberStitchers.
- Chapter events include opportunities such as stitch-in's, meetings, workshops and lectures.
- Correspondence courses
- Teacher and judge certification
- Master craftsman classes
- National, juried exhibits
- Online lending library
Membership costs vary depending on options chosen. The Membership section of the website has additional details.
