Monday 28 June 2010

Woolfest 2010 /Keswick Embroiderers' Exhibition

I met up with lots of Guild members and other friends at Woolfest this weekend, and caught glimpses of several others in the distance! I went both days, and managed to find plenty of things on Saturday that I'd missed on Friday. It was a lovely show, and I came away with bagsful of goodies, and ideas. I think  I was more realistic this year about what I'd actually use, but still managed to have all kinds of purchases to enjoy all over again when I got home and unpacked them. The attendance seemed to be good............ I hope that all the stallholders felt it worth coming, because it really is wonderful to have this show here, so close by.

Among my favourite buys were a little felt doll from Diane Gaffney's stall, where I was also seriously tempted by the batik fabrics, and two of Jackie Cardy's beautiful felt and velvet embroidered brooches, which I have seen  on her blog. (http://www.dogdaisychains.blogspot.com/)   Her felt vessels were lovely too. Otherwise, my buys were supplies of threads and fabric.

 I'm sure , if you went, you enjoyed it, and if you didn't, look out for Woolfest 2011.

Our Exhibition is the next Big Thing for us! It may not be on the same grand scale as Woolfest, but will show the kinds of things we do, and the results of  workshops over the last two years or so. We're hoping for a good response at The Moot Hall on Friday.  Refreshments will be served!  See you there!

Wednesday 23 June 2010

May's Meeting; Goldwork

Pat's report, and Melanie's pictures............

On Thursday, 20th May, we were lucky to have 'Golden Hinde' visit us, with Sue Hinde giving us very clear tuition in goldwork, and her daughter Sarah Rackstraw aiding her, and letting us have many tips on how to get to grips with our attempts at a beautiful finished product. We were asked to choose a motif (mine was a shell shape) and a little kit of materials (gold or silver, lovely coloured beads, etc), and it was explained how to transfer the pattern to the fabric, by stitching through the tissue paper, and then removing it carefully. We then couched threads, sewed on padded shapes in soft leather, and cut up sparkly lengths, which then were threaded into place as beads. The overall effect of all our efforts was charming, and in her friendly, chatty way, Sue Hinde persuaded most of us that there was no fear in having a go at goldwork; indeed, I came away with inspiration to complete my Chairman's Challenge Sampler with a three inch square of goldwork, and to incorporate these well-explained techniques into future pieces of embroidery, be they traditional or contemporary. A very relaxed and enjoyable day!












Tuesday 22 June 2010

Out and about this summer!

This is Marilyn's review of a visit to Farfield Mill, Garsdale Road, Sedbergh



I have just visited the Trees in the Park Exhibition and found it very interesting, however these are Art quilts and are certainly not for the bed!

Most are long tall quilted wallhangings, as you would expect a tree to be. A variety of techniques, are displayed, including some hand and machine embroidery.

Worth a visit if you are in the area.



Mary Taylor ( machine embroidery based on landscapes) also has her workshop here, so you can see her work whenever you visit and she is often working there. I love her landscapes and also the range of embroidered jewelry she creates. The workmanship is to such a high standard, so neat and accurate and her use of colour is excellent.



Summer Exhibitions 2010

12th June to 11th July - Trees in the Park (quilted textiles)

10th July to 5th Sept - Lancs & Lakes Guild Of WSD (woven textiles)

7th July to 30th Aug - Nora Ball textile (woven textiles& mixed media)





More info at www.farfieldmill.org