





Above: A couple of my finished 'blocks' - one day they could be part of a quilt!
It's a great setup at The Little Stitchery. Run by couturier Nicola Ridd-Davies, it's a bright and modern space with lots of machines, cutting tables, and bolts of fabric. There were about a dozen of us attending the taster workshop, which was led by two very experienced and enthusiastic quilters. We learnt a little about the history, which was particularly interesting as quilting is known as such an American craft these days, but there's a long history of quilting in Wales that predates American quilting. After learning about the basic construction technique, we then had a go at cutting out our pieces and stitching them together. Accuracy is key, apparently. Accuracy is hard. There were lots of 'whoops' moments with the rotary cutter...
I could see how it could become addictive. I think I should probably concentrate on one thing at a time though and stick to dressmaking for now. I may revisit quilt making in future, when I'm a bit quicker at sewing and could make one in less than a year!!
I seem to recall reading that wholecloth quilts were popular in Wales - the emphasis was on the stitching rather than the piecing - and the colours quite restrained because of the influence of Methodism. I bet St Fagans has a good display.
ReplyDeleteThis could be a good way to use up all your offcuts from dressmaking.
I think you're right. There is a quilting museum somewhere in Wales too! I will have to find it.
DeleteNo wonder you're so busy all the time, you have so many hobbies!! xx
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos! I love vintage...you have a lovely blog! Thank you so much for sharing. :)
ReplyDeleteWow! What a beautiful drive you had.
ReplyDeleteI know that I'd enjoy learning about the history of quilts and I bet that book on Quilts in Morocco is filled with inspiration stuff. I feel anxious just looking at all that scary apparatus, I think I'll stick to my shoebox lid! xxx
I love quilts, but I'm not sure I'd have the patience for it. Maybe one day when I'm retired ;-) Seems you had a great day and what a fabulous drive. The Neath valley is so beautiful. xxx
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you had a fab day! It's great to see so many people there, the crochet workshop I went to only had 4 attendees including myself. xx
ReplyDeleteSounds like fun! My grandma used to make quilts, and I wish that I still had one. It's definitely an art form.
ReplyDeleteThat's awesome that you got to attend this workshop for free. And wow, take my breath away. That first photo of the scenery during the drive is so amazing!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you made the comment about accuracy. I've always felt that quilting was Not For Me for that reason, but also felt guilty about not trying. I think I'll stick to my instincts on that one.
ReplyDeleteOh I'm so jealous!! I have done a bit of quilting, but I feel like it would work much better in a group setting, with a cup if tea and some chit chat. Makes the time fly by. On your own it feels a bit daunting, working on something so big makes it a laborious task.
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