Embroidery from the RSSK Collection at Gawthorpe

Well what a wonderful unexpected surprise I have just had.  I have been poorly recently and not got out much recently so it was a treat to get to the library in Alsager last week. I flicked through an embroidery book and noticed a reference to Macintosh early on so decided to take the book home. What a gem it is. The book is Early 20^th Century Embroidery Techniques, written and beautifully illustrated by Gail Marsh the ex curator of the RBSK textile collection at Gawthorpe Hall, Padiham, Yorkshire . My husband looked on the Internet and found out about the collection noticing that there was an embroidery exploration day on August 9th, just the thing to cheer me up.

The course was extremely well planned and organised - gloves and a magnifying glass were placed out for us. The curator Rachel Terry was supported by a very helpful volunteer and throughout the afternoon both of them made every effort to allow us to appreciate the chosen items to the full. Rachel is extremely knowledgeable about the items (approximately 50 were chosen for the afternoon). The best word I can use about the afternoon is excellent. The course is held in the textile library - a real treat in itself. If you are interested in embroidery (in its widest sense) , patchwork or lace do watch out for other courses based on the rich and fascinating RBSK collection, you will not be disappointed. www.gawthorpetextiles.org.uk I am looking forward to returning.