This programme aims to provide an interactive learning environment and support mental wellbeing through multi-sensory and social skills activities, such as gardening, needlework and textile exploration.
The workshops encompass all stages of fabric production, from seed to cloth. This focuses on cultivating flax and processing it into linen fibres, which subsequently become threads for weaving, lacemaking and hand embroidery. We offer introductory group demonstrations on yarn spinning, natural dyeing and various traditional textile making techniques.
Starter plots were launched in 2024 in collaboration with the Kingston Flax and Fibre Project. We have engaged University students and graduates, primary school pupils and Kingston Mencap members. Our seeds were originally planted at Stanley Picker Gallery, outside the entrance to the Kingston History Centre and in The Searchlight Community Centre garden. The full programme was introduced in September 2024 during Kingston Heritage Festival.
It is an ongoing programme with more plots and participants joining each year.
Follow links below to see how you can take part too.
Sow To Sew Fibre Fridays - Eventbrite