February 2023 - First Meeting of the Year

Our first meeting of 2023 was a small red-work project supplied by MW. Red-work uses simple embroidery stitches; stem stitch, split stitch, satin stitch and French knots. The resulting embroidered pieces can be used as blocks in a quilt. The technique was popularised in the 1800's with the development of Turkey red dye, as this was one of the first dyes to be made colourfast. Red fabric dyed with turkey red also started to make an appearance in quilts during the 1800's. Signature quilts often used this red thread as a colourful alternative to black. Click here for instructions.

MW, D, TL, VW

HM, MM, MW, CD

As you can see, these designs are quick to stitch as they are outlined with minimal dense stitching. Our fabric was backed with iron on interfacing, which gave it enough body to minimise puckering of stitches should you not want to use a hoop. It was a relaxing and enjoyable process.

Although most participants did the red-work project others chose to knit or crochet.

Baby jumper JN

Crochet beret SW

This Crazy patchwork panel is destined to become a wall hanging.

Crazy patchwork wall hanging HM