At the February meeting, we were treated to an interesting talk by member Ruth Walker, who talked us through her ‘textile journey’. Ruth brought with her a beautiful collection of her work, including machine-embroidered bowls, pictures and bags. By her own confession Ruth has quite a ‘thing’ about bags, and they are such a good vehicle for displaying a range of techniques. Ruth also showed us a wonderful range of designs based on peacocks. Some years ago she was treated to a magnificent display by a peacock who shook his tail-feathers at her and ‘strutted his stuff’, and peacocks have featured in her work ever since. Thanks to Ruth.
We had a whole-day meeting this month, so there was plenty of time to ‘sit and sew’, and to see what people are working on. Jill showed people the results of a recent embellishing course she has been on, and demonstrated how she makes background fabrics using scraps and threads (don’t forget that the branch has an embellisher that you can rent for just £5 a month). And thanks for the encouraging feedback on the website everyone. Do keep sending in the photos – we are starting to build up a good range in the ‘gallery’.
We took part in the Findon Christmas Tree Festival this year for the first time. This is a fund-raising event when the wonderful old Church of St John the Baptist is filled with Christmas trees decorated by local groups and societies. They ranged from children’s groups to a ‘Men in Sheds’ group. It was a lovely sight. Unfortunately the low lighting made it difficult to photograph, so only a few of the close-ups came out. Apologies for the lack of focus!
The Christmas meeting was a chance to relax and chat, stitch in company, and eat some naughty cakes and sweets. A successful raffle raised a good donation for the Sussex Air Ambulance. Happy Christmas everyone.