Margo is joined by artist, designer, and educator helping to lead the modern revival of punch needle rug hooking, Micah Clasper-Torch. Based in Los Angeles, Micah’s work blurs the lines between art, craft, and design, creating one-of-a-kind textile pieces that range from coats and accessories to wall hangings and soft sculpture.
With a background in fashion design from both The Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and the Politecnico di Milano in Italy, Micah weaves together her love of fine art, heritage craft, and wearable design. In 2019 she became a certified Oxford Punch Needle Instructor and, in 2020, launched Punch Needle World, an online community, shop, and educational platform dedicated to uplifting the craft and its history. Her debut book, Punch Needle Fashion (Quadrille, June 2025), brings punch needle into the world of contemporary fashion with 15 original projects and a beautifully photographed exploration of the medium.
Margo and Micah discuss:
- Micah’s journey from fashion design to punch needle leadership
- The revival of punch needle and its fascinating history
- How tailoring and handmade construction shape her work
- The inspiration behind Punch Needle Fashion and what sets it apart
- Building creative community through Punch Needle World
- Tips for beginners (including her go-to needle size!)
- Embracing the blur between art, craft, and fashion
Connect with Micah
https://www.micahclasper-torch.com
https://www.punchneedleworld.com
https://www.instagram.com/claspertorch
https://www.instagram.com/punchneedle.world
Punch Needle Fashion Book – https://tinyurl.com/mrx5rmez
