Discover the rich rewards of quilting, weaving and embroidery at Fine Art of Fiber

Have you loved an heirloom quilt to threads, and wish you could make a new one for future generations? Do you sit in awe of the people you see happily knitting on the train? Are your fingers itching to embroider flowers along the hem of an old pair of jeans?

You may be channeling that age-old creative force that compels people to make things with their hands and express themselves through craftwork.

Interested in learning more? You can explore the world of quilting, weaving, embroidery, knitting, lacemaking and more at "The Fine Art of Fiber." The exhibition runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, through Sunday, Nov. 9, at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

An opening night celebration offers early shopping opportunities from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 6. The show is free and open to the public. A parking fee applies for nonmembers.

"The Fine Art of Fiber," one of the oldest and largest needle art shows in the region, is put on by three local guilds: Illinois Quilters Inc.; North Suburban NeedleArts Guild and Weavers Guild of the North Shore. All are nonprofit organizations dedicated to increasing awareness of the fiber arts, promoting quality design and craftsmanship, and preserving fiber heritage.

Thanks to their efforts, the exhibition will include ongoing demonstrations of weaving, spinning, needle felting, bobbin lacemaking, beading, quilting, knitting, crocheting, Japanese braiding and more.

Guild members will be on hand throughout the exhibition to field visitors' questions about all aspects of the fiber arts.

Inspiration can also be found in exhibitions staged in Nichols Hall, and the Krehbiel and Bridge galleries. More than 150 pieces will be on display, including wearable art, dolls, bead embroidery, jewelry, and traditional and contemporary quilts.

A special exhibition will explore the theme "Masks: Disguise, Expose, Celebrate." The Great Wear Fashion Show will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Seating for the popular event is on a first-come, first-served basis and fills quickly.

Not ready to take the plunge into fiber arts? You can still enjoy beautiful handmade items in your home. Boutiques in Burnstein Hall and the Greenhouse Galleries will sell a variety of quilts, holiday gifts, knitwear, woven goods, wearable art, jewelry and many other handmade items.

A silent auction will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Raffle tickets can also be purchased for original handwork donated by each guild. The drawing will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday. Visit chicagobotanic.org/fiber for the latest information on the exhibition.