Abstract
The purpose of this study was to discover what motivational factors are important to contemporary textile handcrafters who continue to produce artifacts similar to those produced by previous generations of women. Thirty-nine women completed questionnaires and 18 women also participated in in-depth interviews. Participation in guild activities and comparison to contemporary and historic literature provided further context for analysis. Three general themes emerged as useful for interpretation of participants' responses. First, participation in various textile handcraft activities provided the women an opportunity to identify their place in the world. Secondly, the production of the items brought meaning to the women. Finally, tangible and intangible benefits were gained from the end products of their labor. These objects are valued by their creators as symbols of self, who feel textile handcrafts are special because they are made with love and are connected to personal histories.
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