Monday, 20 May 2024

Summer outing to Haworth

 


Haworth is just on our doorstep and yet so often overlooked as a place to visit, but as we discovered on our Summer outing this week, it is full of creative surprises.

First stop was The Classroom a new studio space set up by craft cafe Cobbles and Clay in the heart of Haworth Main Street.  Our tutor Hannah, guided us through the art of printing with beautiful hand-carved wood blocks.  This ancient method of decorating cloth dates back to 3500 - 1300BC and was first recorded in the Indus valley.  It took a little practice to perfect our technique but we were soon printing bags, cushions and tea towels with our own distinctive designs.

After a delightful lunch at the cafe we made our way down the cobbled street to Wyedean Weaving to see another bit of history.  Wyedean have been making uniform, braid and accoutrement for 60 years and their work played a pivotal role in the pageantry of the King's Coronation.  Their looms were responsible for the narrow braids and ribbons that turn simple suits into military uniforms.  We were able to see at close quarters the exquisite gold work embroidery that forms regimental badges and standards.  The company is rightly proud of the 4 embroiderers that received the King's Coronation Medal for their work on the new colours and standards for the Royal Navy, the Life Guards, the Royal Airforce and the Grenadier guards.

After a tour through all four floors of the mill and encountering a dazzling array of weaving and braiding machines, we finished in the show room where were were able to appreciate all the work and history that lies behind our military regalia.  Wyedean owners, Robin and Debra were generous with their time, answering our questions and giving us a fascinating insight into their work.

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