St. Martinville native and Leathersmith Liz Mire, was the guest speaker for the March 24 meeting of Beta Rho Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi. Mire presented a program on textiles, practical and decorative uses in the home, with an emphasis on leather and crafting bowls.
Mire showcased her art working with leather. Members viewed her leather craftsmanship in the art of creating saddles.
Mire further explained the process of completing each by cutting, sewing, punching and finishing the material. Mire uses an exacto knife to cut the leather, strong blades to cut through the thick and thin leather, and clips to secure the fabric.
Large needles are used in completing the project. Punching clean holes are a must with the use of a mallet. Mire also explained the different types of punches used and the tips used in completing the leather project.
Members learned leather working is relatively easy to get started. Simple projects for beginners are keychains and wallets. Fine motor skills and patience influence success in leather working. Mire also displayed wooden bowls made from black cherry and oak wood.
Members enjoyed participating in placing punches in the leather with specific tools and agreed our area is fortunate to have such an accomplished craftsman.
Special guests assisting Mire were her parents, Jimmy and Mary Mire, who shared with members stories about leather working and how it has been passed down for future generations.
At the conclusion of the presentation President Lynnie Bienvenu called on committee chair to report on coming activities.
Adopted Family chair Shirley Fuselier announced the chapter continues to support a local family monthly.
Program chair Bobbie Theriot announced the first meeting in April will be held on April 14 at the Theriot home. Parish Clerk of Court Laura Blanchard will present a program on How Well Do You Know Your Parish?
Founder’s Day chair Arleen Oubre announced the annual event will be held on April 28 at El Corazon Restaurant.
President Bienvenu was the recipient of the Courtesy gift presented by chair Arleen Oubre.
At the conclusion of the meeting officers for the coming year were elected. Officers selected are: Lynnie Bienvenu, president; Bobbie Theriot, vice president and extension officer; Arleen Oubre, recording and corresponding secretary; Shirley Fuselier, treasurer; Louella Champagne, civil defense; and Elaine Case, parliamentarian.
Members present for the meeting were President Lynnie Bienvenu, Shirley Fuselier, Elaine Case, Arleen Oubre and Bobbie Theriot.
