Join us for a evening taster session in the wonderful art of Japanese stitching – and make yourself a beautiful lavender bag at the same time!

Not only is Japanese stitching a great way to extend the life of your clothes, but it also allows you to create beautiful and original accessories, samplers, wall hangings, cushions and much more.

Traditionally used as a way to mend clothes, we'll show you how Sashiko and Boro hand sewing techniques can be used decoratively.

In this relaxed and mindful workshop with experienced tutor Suzanne Strachan, you'll be shown various techniques and tips and then she'll guide you as you work on your own designs.

We'll have a range of small pieces of fabric and Sashiko threads which you can use to sew onto calico to personalise the bags. We'll also give you a pre-prepared insert filled with lavender to put inside your bag.

You won't need to use a sewing machine at all, as the focus in this class is all about relaxed and mindful hand stitching (though if you'd prefer to finish the lavender bag at home by stitching the outer casing together on a machine, that's perfectly fine too!).

The class is suitable for both novice and experienced stitchers.

We'll also provide wine, hot drinks or juice to help your creativity!

The workshop will be led by expert sewer, knitter and textiles consultant, Suzanne Strachan.

"very good participation workshop. Really good seeing a selection of samples"

"a wonderful crafting session – my new obsession!"

Please note that the class is held upstairs at The Railway and there is unfortunately no lift access.