2011

As you may have realised, Needle & Thread activity is scheduled at times when our guest cottages aren't busy (as they are in peak holiday seasons and school vacations, for example): therefore, the majority of our workshops and retreats take place in spring and early autumn. We had a great Spring 2011 with all the available slots being taken up by returning groups (two groups back for their fourth visit!) keen to kick-start their patchwork and kick-back in the French countryside.

However, we do have dates available for workshops and retreats in Autumn, including a very special offer - the 'weekend wonder' (see below). If you'd like to come for some peace and quiet - and some sewing - on your own or with a friend or partner, get in touch and we can discuss the options. And if you'd like to come in a group, ask us about our workshops or UFO retreats - or let us know what you'd like to do. Just give us a call or send an email.

The Weekend Wonder

Ever wondered what it's like at Needle & Thread? Come for the weekend and find out! This is a great option if you don't live too far from the Channel ports. Arrive Friday after lunch, start sewing as soon as you want and we'll provide dinner. Sew all day Saturday (we'll provide breakfast and lunch) and perhaps go out for an authentic French meal on Saturday night. Sew on Sunday morning (again, we'll provide breakfast) and head home in time to get ready for the new week. £120 a head (but we can discuss a group deal if there's four or more of you).

Some recent workshops

(Most of the workshops that feature structured teaching last three days and cost about £230 (this includes three nights accommodation and first night dinner). However, we are happy to discuss individual and group requirements.)

An Amish Experience
Spend a few days with the Amish - learn about the life and quilting customs of this fascinating religious group (we'll even eat Amish food). We'll make a small quilt, calling on the colours and traditions of Amish quilting. Some machine sewing and rotary cutting experience required.

Heartbeat
You know Sue loves quick results! Forget accurate cutting and seam allowances, these crazy hearts are pieced fast and furious, and then neatly trimmed to size. Try emptying your scrap basket or choose a colour theme - it works both ways. Some machine sewing and rotary cutting experience required.

New York Beauty
This is a complex block, which depends on accurate points and careful piecing. Combine traditional piecing for the curves with foundation piecing for the 'spikes' to learn the technique - and go on to design your own blocks. We have a clever piece of computer software which really helps!