During the last few years we have held many successful embroidery workshops which have encouraged others to experience the techniques and stitches used in the distinctive style of the Quaker Tapestry. The workshops can accommodate equally the experienced embroiderer and those who have had very little embroidery experience.

During the day you will be treated to demonstrations, practical sessions and a guided tour of the Exhibition. In the course of the day you will hear stories and anecdotes of the Tapestry and the people it has encountered.

We provide a simple vegetarian lunch of soup, bread and cheese, fresh fruit and coffee. There is no need for specialist equipment. All materials, food and refreshment for the day will be provided for you and they are included in the course fee.

This course is designed for those who have never before experienced the techniques used in the 'narrative crewel embroidery' as seen in the Quaker Tapestry. The Foundation Course can accommodate equally the experienced embroiderer and those who have had very little embroidery experience.

Quaker Stitch - which includes how to create the popular letter style
Design - create your own narrative designs for embroidery

"The chief attribute of a good embroiderer is love" - Anne Wynn-Wilson

Anne Wynn-Wilson, founder of the Quaker Tapestry, died suddenly on 13 October 1998, aged 72. She gave the last 17 years of her life to this unique project, The Quaker Tapestry.

This is an extract from 'Quakers in Stitches' the stitch manual, written by Anne.

How the Quaker Tapestry began

"On the first Sunday in January 1981 I began teaching a boy in the Quaker meeting in Taunton, (Somerset, South West England).My intention was that we should make a long scroll illustrated with stories from Quaker history, Jonathan, then aged 11, knowing that I was an embroiderer, asked, 'Can we do it in embroidery?' The Bayeux Tapestry flashed across my mind and I promised to think about it. Jonathan had dropped the pebble into the pool and the rings are still increasing. His seemingly impossible request could become reality if the work was shared by many people.

At that time I sensed within the Society pockets of loneliness, especially amongst the elderly, and a lack of knowledge about Quaker experience amongst the newcomers and the children. Because the Tapestry had not been commissioned, I was free to base the project on people, their needs and well-being. This consideration led to many of the unique facets of the Quaker Tapestry Scheme. Embroidery was the catalyst which opened opportunities for an unusual experiment in education, communication and community experience."

The Quaker Tapestry, Friends Meeting House, Stramongate, Kendal, Cumbria, LA9 4BH, England, UK
Telephone/Fax: +44 (0)1539 722975  E-mail: info@quaker-tapestry.co.uk
Registered Charity No. 1035077