Andrea Mayr-Stalder

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About

Andrea Mayr-Stalder is a pioneering figure in the intersection of computer science education, creative coding, and textile crafts. Her primary research focuses on developing accessible programming environments that bridge the gap between digital computation and physical making, with particular emphasis on TurtleStitch—a browser-based, block-programming language descended from Snap! and Scratch that generates patterns for embroidery machines. Her major contribution lies in democratizing computational thinking through tangible, creative outputs, allowing users with no prior programming experience to engage with complex coding concepts while producing physical artifacts. Her most cited work, "Programming embroidery with turtlestitch" (2019, 11 citations), establishes the foundational framework for this approach, while "Code crafting with turtlestitch" (2019, 9 citations) deepens the connection between computer science's historical roots in handcraft traditions like embroidery, tapestry, and weaving. Mayr-Stalder's work is notable for reframing programmable embroidery machines as robots and positioning textile crafting as a legitimate entry point for computational literacy. Her research has significant implications for broadening participation in computing, particularly among groups traditionally underrepresented in STEM, by leveraging the universal appeal of making and crafting. Through TurtleStitch, she has created a powerful pedagogical tool that honors the rich heritage of textile arts while preparing learners for a computationally-driven future.