A Bird in the Hand – Textile Workshop

Join us on Sunday 26th November to make a realistic stitched and stuffed cloth bird to put under a glass dome, adorn your Christmas tree or perch on a winter windowsill.  Debby, textiles teacher and maker at Morley College, will guide you through the process from beginning to end using hand stitching and some machine sewing.

Choose from a range of birds, including seasonal robin, and be guided through painting colours and markings onto cloth. You will then be taught how to cut, seam, stuff and insert wire legs and eyes to create your bird.

All materials will be provided and refreshments will be available during the day.

Programme

10.30am Welcome and introduction.  Debby will show you three characteristic bird body shapes and leg positions.

11.00am Break

11.30am Choose your bird and trace body, gusset, wings and tail onto calico using templates.

1pm – 2pm Lunch – You are welcome to bring your own, or alternatively, the Garden Cafe will be open, serving delicious hot food and snacks.

2pm Cut out and stitch body seams.  Stuff and shape, insert and secure your bird’s wire legs.  Close remaining seams and stitch wings and tail into position. Insert eyes and apply finishing touches with additional paint or embroidery stitches.

4.40pm – Admire your bird; take photos, either in the hand, or in a Garden Museum bush