History of the ASG

The forming of the Australian Sewing Guild Inc. (ASG) was the brainchild of our founder Michelle Pullen and stems from her experiences with the American Sewing Guild. Michelle realised that such an organisation would be of tremendous value to Australian sewers. The need arose for the establishment of the Guild when the Government downgraded textile courses in the schools and TAFE colleges.

The American Sewing Guild has assisted with the formation of our Guild by allowing us to utilise their Procedure Schedule and draw on their years of experience. Having this information made available to us has been fantastic and without it the establishment process would have been a lot slower. The Australian Sewing & Craft Industry Association (ASCIA) financially supported the formation of the Guild.

From October 1996 through to February 1997 a series of editorials were published in sewing related magazines to launch the Guild to potential members. This proved very successful in obtaining members, Neighbourhood Group Coordinators and Regional Organisers.

The National Board was appointed in March 1997. The appointment of the National Board was a very important stage of the Guild's development. Finding the right people for the job took a little time, but has certainly been worth the wait. The board members represent the sewer, the teacher and the industry.

The Guild changed its name from Australian Sewing & Creative Textiles Guild Inc. to Australian Sewing Guild Inc. in October 1999. Jessica Dunn, who is a junior member of the Nambucca Valley Neighbourhood Group, won the Australian Sewing Guild logo competition, at 13 years of age. Jessica’s logo depicts Australia as a sewing machine and pin cushion.