Li Chao Knit

Li Chao Knit became the youngest worker learning to stitch. With her thimbled thumbs, she sewed and sold white dresses for porcelain belles across the Pacific. While hemming and altering gowns of silk and chiffon glory, Li Chao’s mind began another wander-story: “I wonder if anyone knows who helps the threads grow from a lonely string to a gathering scene of flowered lace and more.” Li Chao Knit signed her name, needle and string to the inside hem—a special signature to an unknown friend. Poetry 53