FORGOTTEN HISTORY — OUR FUTURE RECLAIMED
Our Story — The Heritage of Men in Textiles
The term "haberdashery" (pronounced hab-er-DASH-er-ee) originated in Anglo-Norman as "hapertas," referring to small merchandise. By the 13th century, haberdashers became established craftsmen dealing in men's accessories and sewing notions—a reminder of textiles' rich masculine history. Textile crafting isn't just a "women's hobby" – it is a skillset with deep masculine roots throughout history. From ancient Egyptian men who wove intricate fabrics to the medieval European craftsmen's guilds dominated by male weavers, knitters, and tailors, men have been central to textile traditions for millennia. Historically, men's crafts like quilting, knitting, and crocheting were considered valuable skills passed from father to son. These traditions live on today through the dedicated artisans who continue to practice and innovate within these time-honored crafts.
Our Founder Brice Gastons' Journey
Brice, a veteran who found healing through quilting, began as a hobby. Brice had t- t-shirts collected from each one of his flights (a group of trainees in the military)
and later expanded to knitting and crocheting, created MTC to share these benefits with other men. After experiencing firsthand how textile crafting improved his mental health and how it connected him to an amazing community, he was inspired to introduce the textile arts to as many men as possible, and MTC was created.
His passion for supporting fellow veterans and first responders drives much of MTC's mission. Understanding the unique challenges faced by those who serve, Brice has dedicated himself to creating spaces where these individuals can discover the natural focus and satisfaction that comes from working with textiles. The structured nature of textile crafts provides a familiar framework that resonates deeply with the service mindset. Discover How Textile Crafts Transform Veterans' Lives.
The Fiber Fellas emerged from a core group of men dedicated to textile crafts who regularly meet to share skills, stories, and support. These gatherings have become a cornerstone of the MTC community, welcoming craftsmen of all experience levels. Today, MTC stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, celebrating the historical contributions of men to textiles and the modern male artisans who continue to advance these crafts.
Our Mission
To revitalize men's connection to textile crafts by educating, supporting, and inspiring the next generation of male textile artists in Texas and beyond. Through MTC and our Fiber Fellas community, we're building a movement that honors tradition while creating space for men in the modern textile arts landscape. Our vision extends beyond craft—we're fostering a renaissance of creativity, skill-sharing, and camaraderie that reconnects men with their rich heritage while forging new paths forward. Join us in this revival and be part of reclaiming these valuable traditions.
A Focus on Men's Textile Heritage with Room for All
MTC's primary mission is to reconnect men with their rich heritage in textile and fiber arts, encouraging a more masculine aesthetic and creative perspective in patterns, designs, and finished pieces. We aim to show that textile crafts have a strong masculine tradition worth revitalizing.
While our focus is on men, we welcome women who are military personnel and first responders to join our community. We recognize that the shared experiences of service create unique bonds and perspectives that transcend gender.
Our goal isn't exclusion but rather to create space for men to explore these crafts comfortably while honoring the historical contributions men have made to textile traditions. By encouraging more men to participate in these arts, we're working toward a more balanced and diverse crafting community that benefits everyone.
The textile world is enriched when it includes diverse perspectives, experiences, and aesthetics from people of all backgrounds. MTC is proud to contribute to this diversity by highlighting masculine approaches to textile arts while remaining respectful and appreciative of all who share our passion for these crafts.
Supporting Veterans & First Responders
As a veteran himself, Brice understands the unique perspectives and experiences of military personnel and first responders. MTC is committed to introducing these communities to textile crafts as a natural extension of the skills and mindset developed through service.
For veterans transitioning to civilian life, textile crafting offers a structured creative outlet that engages the same problem-solving skills and attention to detail that were valued in service. The rhythmic, tactical nature of working with your hands creates a natural state of focus and accomplishment that many find similar to the satisfaction of completing a mission or task in service.
For first responders balancing the high-intensity demands of their profession, these crafts provide a grounding counterbalance—a space where focused handwork naturally calms the mind through the simple act of creation. Many find that the concentration required for following patterns or developing techniques creates a natural "flow state" that refreshes the mind.
Beyond these natural benefits, MTC creates a community where veterans and first responders can connect with like-minded individuals who understand service culture. Here, the conversations flow easily among people who share similar experiences and perspectives, all while creating something tangible and lasting.
Whether you're looking to develop a new skill, find a community of peers, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of creating something with your hands, the Fiber Fellas community offers an environment where your service background is understood and valued.