Newsletter – September 2026
Looking forward to starting a new membership year with you all – some good news is that we intend to keep the annual membership renewal cost at £45, which I’m sure you’ll agree is great value for money given the programme that Carol has arranged for us! Please see posters attached for the upcoming speakers, workshops and group project.
Last speaker meeting recap (July 11th):
It was a hot summers day and Carol treated us to lollies to cool us down. Ninya Mikhaila shared how her family history with tailoring, and her enthusiasm to create costumes for events at Kentwell House, inspired her career in historical costume design. Our members were enthralled by her talk and the fabulous samples that she brought along. You can follow Ninya on Youtube in the BBC production ‘A Stitch In Time’. Pictures can be found online here
Following Valentina joining us to describe the production on ‘Market Town’, a heritage project that celebrated the history of Romford, several members of our group volunteered to help with costume and bunting making. Thanks to Annie, Julia, Rachel, Dora, Linda and Mary Biagioni for getting involved. Dora will be sharing some pictures from the event at our next meeting.
Upcoming speaker meeting (12th September, 1.45-4pm)
Our speaker is Mary Schoeser on Scandinavian stitch. Workshop signups will be available for Nik Ravenscroft Bayeux stitch (26th September), which is at no cost to members) and Bev Caleno’s coral workshop (24th October). Please see posters attached.
The first swaps for the new ‘A Year in Stitch’ hoop project will happen in October. You will need a hoop that is 10 or 12 inches wide, divided into 12 sections. Each segment is month of year being stitched in, and stitches show meaning to you. Red or green ribbon or thread is to be attached depending on whether you want to share with another person to help complete or complete it by yourself. Name your work, and speak to others about any swaps so they are aware who has it.
Please can members:
- Bring in any work to view on the stage i.e flowers projects from residential and completed workshop pieces or anything else that you’ve worked on over the summer.
- While there is no sales table in September, please let Karen (from the sales table) know if you want a hoop for the project.
- Remember to renew your membership with Diane (either BACS, cash or cheque).
Residential Recap
The residential took place this year at Manor of Groves and the group enjoyed working with Jill Kipniss to make hand embroidered flowers. A huge thank you to Jill Kipnis for leading us. Also, to Carol and Diane for organising this excellent opportunity to stitch in a delightful location. Jill provided all the materials for a choice of flower and provided an extensive range of threads. Each stage of making was expertly delivered with clear instructions and advice on a variety of finishes. Pictures are available here.
Please note that the intended dates for the residential trip next year are 2nd – 4th August 2027, at Manor of Groves. Members can set aside the dates if they might be interested.
Trip to Farnborough (11th September)
Carol has organised a coach trip to Farnborough for the Creative Craft exhibition on 11th September. Please note that car parking at the church is not available to all on that day. The coach will be departing from the church promptly at 9am, so please ensure you are present at the church ready to depart by 8.45am.
Some events, and online content, you may be interested in:
Thanks to everyone who kindly shares info that may be of interest to our members.
- On until 13 Sept 2026 The Material Heart: Front Line to Home Front – Fashion and Textile Museum Sarah Campbell, who is currently exhibiting at the Textile Museum, is our speaker in January.
- On until 13 Sept 2026 Paint! Pattern! Print! – Fashion and Textile Museum
- 4 September to Wednesday 7 October 2026 Threads through Creation Exhibition – Chelmsford Cathedral
Best wishes, Annie – R.E. Chairman
