Surface Design Association’s mission since 1977 is to promote awareness and appreciation of textile-inspired art and design through member-supported benefits including publications, exhibitions, and conferences events, covering a wide range of practices such as papermaking, dyeing, sculpture, stitching, knitting, weaving, embellishing, collage, and much more.
The SDA Personal Development Grants aim to foster excellence in fiber and textile arts among SDA members by supporting their creative and scholarly activities. This includes funding studio projects, workshops, residencies, research travel, or assistance with written materials. These grants are intended to significantly contribute to the grantee’s artistic and/or scholarly development, with funds up to $1,000 awarded twice a year. The exact amount available may change annually. Membership in the Surface Design Association is required to be eligible for this grant, which is open to all members, including those international. Additionally, SDA provides membership support for those facing financial barriers.