On a small island near Venice, the fine art of hand-sewn lace somehow remains alive. Our correspondent visits with the master craftswomen of Burano to learn their history, their secrets, and the prospects for their future.

Women Who Embroider the Air originally appeared in Craftsmanship Quarterly, a multimedia online magazine focused on master artisans, innovators, and the architecture of excellence. You'll find many more stories, videos, audio recordings, and other resources on our site — all free of charge, and free of advertising.

Written by ERLA ZWINGLE

Introduction by ANH OPPENHEIMER

Narrated by NANCY LEBRUN

Produced by LARRY ROSEN

Music by MIKE SNOWDEN OF “THE CIGAR BOX GUITAR MAKER”

Additional Music by BLUE DOT SESSIONS