February 1, 2026"THIS IS THE WORK OF MANY HANDS."
"This is the work of many, many hands bringing everything together."
– Natalie Chanin
– Natalie Chanin
The future of craft rests in the hands of young makers. At Project Threadways and Alabama Chanin, we are working to foster that connection, to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, and to train the craftspeople of tomorrow.
For many years, Project Threadways has partnered with schools and universities to educate students, record oral histories, and share knowledge. A meaningful and long-standing collaboration has been with Florence High School and its cooperative education program, Launch. Today, we highlight two Launch students, Grant Billingsley and Izzy Cassady, both seniors at FHS. Their dedication, growth, and accomplishments are a source of great pride.
Learn more about their work at Project Threadways below.
About the Launch Program
We work closely with Florence High School’s learning coordinator, Jessica Flanagan. Here’s what she says about Launch and its connection with Project Threadways.
"The Florence High School Launch Program gives students an opportunity to work a position within a career path they hope to pursue after high school. Launch allows students to gain an insight into their future careers that can only come from hands-on learning experiences with reputable business partners who are willing to teach and support student learning.
While most career preparatory programs give meaningful information about different career options, Launch allows students to step into a career role and receive the whole work experience. They're immersed into the day-to-day and are given the tools to decide if a particular career path is the one they want to continue to pursue.
Project Threadways has been an exemplary partner with the Launch Program over the years. Students interested in the world of fashion and/or business receive unmatched training and experience they can carry with them throughout their careers.
Current Launch students, Grant Billingsley and Izzy Cassady, have shown a commitment to learning and pursuing excellence in their positions at Project Threadways/Alabama Chanin. They have both expanded their knowledge and sharpened their skills, and they each have gone above and beyond to represent the Launch Program well.
I can't wait to see what the future holds for Grant and Izzy and for our partnership with Project Threadways!"
From Izzy
“I learned about Project Threadways through a friend who worked there through Launch, and I thought it would be a great placement for me where I could really learn a lot because of my interest in fashion. I started out assisting Leslie with shipping and Iona with stenciling. I go back and forth depending on the day. I really enjoy getting to see the different sides of both roles and what it takes for everything to run smoothly.
Working here has had a big impact on me. It has shown me how important work ethic is in order to get everything completed on time and has given me a deep appreciation for attention to detail. It has helped me develop patience and creativity, and I’ve learned how much skill and care goes into making each piece unique.
I’ve enjoyed learning from all of the different projects I’ve done. Each one has taught me something new and helped me improve my skills.”
From Grant
“When I first joined the team I was welcomed with open arms and was immediately exposed to all the different facets. Now in my second year, my role has evolved to working directly with head of stenciling, Iona, where I paint entire yardages and assist in the entire stenciling process.
This work has impacted me on a much deeper level than just painting fabrics. Working at Project Threadways, and the conversations and knowledge that I have gained from my co-workers, goes far beyond just the craft of garments. For me, working in hand craft has become a form of therapy, and a way for me to escape the chaos of the outside world.
What has surprised me most in my time working here is the sheer time and attention that goes into each and every piece that leaves the building. When I look at a garment from Alabama Chanin, I feel that I can now actually see the hours that were put into it. I see the design, cutting, painting, sewing, and packaging.”
Izzy and Grant receive training under our expert textile artisan, Iona Gonsalves. Collection garments from Alabama Chanin (along with DIY Kits and Fabric from The School of Making) are all painted by hand in our studio.
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