Great Western Embroiderers at Lydiard House

As I've mentioned many times before, I stitch and exhibit regularly with Great Western Embroiderers, a group of enthusiastic and accomplished stitchers, based in Cricklade, Wilthsire. Working and exhibiting with the members is always a pleasure. 

From 3 April, we will be exhibiting again in the staterooms at Lydiard House, Swindon, with the theme Customs and Crafts An Exploration in Stitch. This time we will be joined by the Kingsdown Woodcarvers - poster with details shown left for anyone who might able to come.

We are a varied bunch. Our work ranges from beautifully executed traditional stitch, quilting and lace-making to explorations of new and unusual ways of working with the old crafts and techniques.

Following visits to Lydiard, we have been inspired by the crafts and customs to be found in large houses and estates in times gone by. Many crafts will be on show including weaving, smocking, knitting, crochet and basket work. 

One member has delved into her own past when she was learning her craft to find a tiny baby's dress completed in shadow work for an A level examination in the 1960s. This will be on show alongside our current work.

We will be stewarding regularly throughout the two months of the exhibition and we have a 'Meet the Artists' day at Lydiard on Tuesday 8 April. On that day, most of the group will be stitching in and around the house and will be very happy to talk about their work and about all things stitch and textile. 

Lydiard House and Park are both well worth a visit at any time. On a sunny spring day, the grounds are a delight - and excellent for any non-stitch partners who want to come on a day out.