Stitching Magic

As seen in

A Throne Built On Stars

Photo by Dagmara Dombrovska

Stitching magic is a lesser-known mystery of the arcane arts and is most often passed down through matrilineal lines. A girl comes into her power on the 15th anniversary of her birth.
Even as youngsters, girls are taught by their mothers, aunts, or grandmothers how to knit, sew, weave, dye, and spin fiber - depending on the girl's age. They are also taught protective runes and their meanings, even before the girl comes into her power.
There are different spells for different purposes. Intent makes a difference. If a crafter is stitching into gloves, she would include protective spells. If she is stitching into the gown of a noblewoman who is seeking a husband, the crafter would use an entirely different incantation.

History

Stitching magic and the meaning of rune patterns has always been passed down through the ages orally by women. It is female-centric magic.

Modern Adaptation

An instructional manual is rumored to exist, although no one knows precisely where it is. Of those crafters that know of it, some think a text would be a good thing. Easier to pass on the knowledge. Others do not agree.

"I think this knowledge should never be written down. It is for the old women to pass on, not some cold and impersonal document written by a stranger!"

Vareese Solani

Protective potions, or those brewed with the intent to attract fortune, love, or luck, are used to soak the threads before dyeing. This step increases the desired effect. 
Sometimes, the seamstress will produce these potions herself, sometimes she will purchase these from a Herbalist, if she can find one she trusts.
A woman experienced and skilled in stitching magic can often command a hefty fee for her talents. While she may find a more wealthy clientele in larger towns, she may also find more competition for clients.