The November workshop ‘Tyvek Flowers ‘was the first live workshop of our newly formed independent group led appropriately by one of our own talented members Kath Roberts.
Kath had painted sheets of Tyvek for us to choose from in a variety of lovely colours and patterns. She advised that acrylic paints are the best to use for this as the Tyvek takes these better. She also supplied petal shaped templates to draw round, wires and an assortment of beads.
Everyone chose their colours and templates. We used the template to draw 5 petals on the Tyvek and on Kath’s advice did not cut them out before stitching.
The stems for the petals are sugar craft stems or florist wire. Sugar craft are preferable as they are less likely to break your needle when applying it to the petal.
The stem is placed vertically down the petal and machined on leaving a length at the top to thread beads on or decorate in some other way. The petals were then cut out.
Kath offered us advice at each stage if required.
Using a heat gun, the petals can be made to curl or burn away making an attractive lacy pattern.
The main stem can be wrapped with florist tape.
Meanwhile, several ladies were busy on their own projects and Sylvia manned the shop as usual. Some real bargains were to be had.
“I have used Crewel work to create an Acer leaf. The acer was a beautiful deep red Autumnal colour, and this really inspired me along with an idea in Jacqui McDonald’s book RSN essential stitch guides- Crewel Work”. Ann R.
“I have used Crewel wool to stitch an apple in my piece”. Irene.
“This month I have stitched a pomegranate, a design from a crewel work stitch book. I have used a variety of colours and stitches including running stitch, stem stitch, chain stitch, satin stitch, whipped running stitch, French knots and Jacobean couching”. Mel.C

The December meeting includes a Christmas Make so please bring sewing materials, beads, anything sparkly ready for the morning session. In the afternoon we are looking forward to a talk by Marie Livesey – ‘In Pursuit of the WOW factor’. After the talk there will be a chance to try out the technique.
On a final note it is very pleasing to know that ' The Grapevine' embroidery is still being admired and appreciated by staff and visitors at Vine House. The embroidery is now on display in the recently decorated entrance hall.
Thanks to Kath Howarth who wrote the blog.
K.H. & A.R.