Thanks to a generous bursary awarded by Hampshire WI, Brockenhurst WI member, Kim Hill, developed a 3-day programme of workshops designed to enhance the craft skills of participating members from Brockenhurst and other local WIs.

To start the ball rolling on Day1, Sara Sullivan gave an intriguing and interesting talk on the history of Sylko cotton reels and threads imbued with the history of colours through the centuries. More than 20 ladies attended, some of whom brought along old Sylko reels to show Sarah for an opinion of their age, collectability and value. Regrettably, no one discovered they had a rare and valuable item hidden away in the murky depths of their work boxes, but it was an interesting exercise nonetheless!

The rest of Saturday’s activity was led by Kim. She demonstrated the stages of creating 2 styles of “Folded Stars” to Crafters, who proceeded to make their own Stars using a range plain and patterned fabrics. 

Day 2 was led by Sarah Richards who guided the participants through the making of a cushion with a zip and perfect piping.

And, finally, on Day 3, Kate Findlay taught members how to make a printed fabric panel using fabric painting and stencilling, appliqué techniques and hand or machine sewing.

Over the 3 days, participants were supplied with tea. coffee and cake by Liz and Maureen. Maureen also ran a raffle of donated prizes.

It was such a wonderful weekend! All of the participants achieved their objectives and made lovely items. They are now looking forward to putting their new skills to good use in future projects.

Grateful thanks go to Kim and the QuiltFest team for all their organisation and to the tutors for their expert teaching and patience.