Cross Stitch Class

April 12th, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
(Rain or Shine)
$50

In this class, we will explore the basics of traditional Hmong cross-stitch, focusing on the paj ntaub (pronounced "pa doe") pattern, commonly used on the back collar (dab tshos - pronounced "da chu") of a Hmong outfit.
The dab tshos carries deep cultural significance, once believed to be a secret hidden map worn on the back for protection. Traditionally, every Hmong girl was expected to learn this craft—there was even a saying that if you didn’t know how to do it, you weren’t considered a good daughter or daughter-in-law. As we immerse ourselves in this beautiful art, remember that being a "good girl" in our tradition means embracing the craft with patience, creativity, and focused dedication. Though life today is busier than ever, I believe it is essential to keep this meaningful tradition alive for generations to come.

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Ker Lor

My name is Ker Lor, and I currently live in Newton, North Carolina. As a young girl growing up in a refugee camp in Thailand, opportunities were limited, especially for young girls. However, I was introduced to the art of cross-stitch by the elders in my community. I vividly remember being around 8 years old when I first learned this craft, and I continued practicing it into my mid-20s after moving to California. Although our busy lives today leave little time for traditional crafts—and we may no longer pass them down to our children as often—we still honor these skills during special events. I am passionate about reviving this tradition, ensuring that future generations can learn, appreciate, and carry it forward.