What is EGA?

Who We Are

The Embroiderers’ Guild of America (EGA) was organized in 1958 in New York by three members of the Embroiderers’ Guild of London. Today, EGA has grown to include 13 regions across the US and Canada comprised of 345 chapters, with a total of nearly 18,000 members.

The purpose of the EGA is to foster the highest standards of excellence in needlework through an active program of education and study to preserve the needle arts heritage of our country.

EGA defines embroidery as that which is done with a threaded needle. EGA studies include quilting, counted thread, canvas, crewel, machine embroidery, beading, silk and metal thread, and much more. Each are is treated with respect and as an art form.

The Show-Me Stitchers chapter of the EGA was chartered in 1988. Our chapter has monthly meetings. These programs include hands-on demonstrations, group stitching projects, videos, and lectures by local and nationally known teachers. In addition, we hold special stitching workshops. These workshops are conducted by nationally recognized teachers. Special interest groups may also be formed by members.

On the region and national levels, members can participate in seminars, exhibitions, and competitions. Correspondence courses ranging from silk embroidery and lace making, to hardanger and fine hand sewing are available. Newer courses include machine embroidery and beading.

Also available to members are certification programs for teachers and judges, and a Master Craftsman program. The national resource library in Louisville, Kentucky houses historical and modern works, study boxes, and hundreds of books and videos available for loan to members and chapters.

Membership is open to all stitchers regardless of expertise. We encourage beginners to join, along with more advanced stitchers. Annual dues are $67 per year and include NeedleArts magazine published quarterly by EGA, the chapter newsletter, ThreadLines, and attendance at all chapter meetings. A national seminar is held every year hosted in cities around the US. Guests and visitors are welcome to attend two chapter meetings free of charge before being invited to join.

For more information about EGA, see the national website. For local membership information, contact the chapter membership chair.