Recently, I came across Poonam Pandit <pandit.poo...@gmail.com> who is currently studying the methods and practice of traditional needlework embroidery in Goa, broadly categorized into lace work, crochet, cut work, patchwork, tatting and hand embroidery.
Poonam is looking out for any relevant information on the history of Goan needle craft including the contribution of the Portuguese influence, its significance in religious and social practices and the indigenous or traditional knowledge of the practicing communities. She mentioned that she is also looking to photograph old designs or motifs and products, and is locating individual artisans or clusters to develop actual samples and study the needle craft techniques followed then and now. This data is being compiled under a Directorate, Commissioner (Handicrafts) endeavour to set up a design bank on embroidery through all states of India. If you have any pointers that could help, Poonam can be contacted via 9552994780 or pandit.poo...@gmail.com