Not too many in India would disagree that 2020 has truly been an annus horribilis.

For those who have felt the scourge of COVID-19, it has been a year of disease and death. For those who have lost their jobs, it has been a year of deprivation and depression. To say that the novel coronavirus pandemic has changed the world would be an understatement. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought sewing and craft and their practical uses into the news. Some sewing machine manufacturers saw a shortage as both big-box retailers and small shops experienced a pandemic sewing rush.Many sewists and crafters dusted off their sewing machines to begin sewing masks, whether for personal use, for front-line workers, or sale. Some fashion designers and large brands also ramped up mask production.

“A stitch in time saves nine” is the favorite proverb of our Founder. Once out of the closet, sewing and all the other practical home-based activities of pandemic times have the potential for utilitarian, psychological, and environmental benefits. That is why some designers, makers, and consumers are imploring us not to stop sewing after the pandemic and why home economics still matters. Employment opportunities can be generated, New innovations can be made. Crisis and deadlocks when they occur have at least this advantage, That they force us to think!