April Meeting

Listening to comments today, last months speaker and workshop by Jessica Grady, was enjoyed by all who attended.  Unfortunately, there wasn't any finished pieces on display this month so I couldn't get any photographs to show.
This month's workshop was with Elizabeth Almond who gave us an Introduction to Whitework.  I know many of the members do enjoy doing whitework, pulled and drawn threadwork and other forms of traditional hand embroidery but all those there today thoroughly enjoyed what Elizabeth brought for us.  It is good to go back to traditional stitches and remind oneself of them, it is surprising how well they sit within a piece of modern embroidery.  We also had a couple of visitors who were interested in the stitching and hopefully are now interested in joining the group.

This is a bit difficult to see but it was the design included in the pack.

Several people liked this swirl and bought the pattern.

Some of Elizabeth's own work.

Just to prove that you can stitch on anything, this is an inexpensive apron from Dunelm which Elizabeth embroidered on.

Guild AGM

I was unable to attend the March meeting as my sister was getting married that day and I felt I should be there instead. 
However, I did manage to attend the Guild AGM in Newcastle.  It was a lovely day out, all the train times worked and the Assembly Rooms were a short walk from the station.  What a lovely building, it took you back to the Regency days of balls and concerts.  The meeting however was bang up to date with powerpoint presentations and fascinating speakers.  In the morning Scott Gordon heron, head designer from Hand and Lock gave us a brief history of the company and some insight into the work the company does, from designing military goldwork to fashion pieces for top designers.  They have even designed badges for the pilots of the first commercial flight into space!
During the afternoon we heard from Dr. Nigel Hurlstone who took us through his recent work 'Men Do Cry' and what a journey that was.  I don't think anyone came out of that room not feeling ragged and drawn, some were nearly in tears.  The work looks at a ward of men in a hospital, all who have cancer and their experiences together, particularly after lights out.  Have a look at his website and the work called 'Sleepers'.
The Guild is just in the black this year and membership fees for next year will be held at £38.  A summary of the day can be found on the website with copies of the various speeches.
Four regional branches put on displays of their work and the Needle Points North banners were prominently displayed.  There was also a display of all the entries for the 2018/19 Guild competition 'Life's Rich Pattern' and very spectacular they were.  Look out for them at the Knitting and Stitching shows.

Some of the Travelling Books displayed by Hexham Branch.

Some of the entries in the Guild competition.

My favourite piece.