Over the last few years the whole team at MMW has fallen in love with making Banners. Sometimes it is to support political movements and trade unions other times it’s just to make something beautiful to hang in our homes. The art form feels very alive, responsive and creative to us, which is why this is one of our favourite workshops to teach. You may have noticed we used to teach Quilts and Banners together in the same weekend but we have decided to split them up this time so that we can do an extra deep dive on banner techniques, as well as cover some of the rich history of banner making.

What will be included:

• Two days of teaching from Rachel Preston

• Designing intuitively, responding to fabrics and shapes

• Patchwork, lettering, appliqué, embroidery and other banner sewing techniques

• Backing, edging and hanging techniques

• Introduction to using our PFAFF sewing machines

• Delving into our epic patchwork fabric stash you can pick out a whole array of fabrics to make your banners.

• If you don’t finish your banner in one weekend that’s no problem, we all know these processes take time and devotion. You can always join our Open Studio sessions on a Wednesday evening to finish off.

When: Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th July 2024, 10am till 4pm

Where: Made My Wardrobe Studio, 27 Portland Square, Bristol, BS2 8SA

Who: This course will be taught by Rachel Preston. Whilst working in London making costumes for the National Theatre and period films (Little Women; Phantom Thread), Rachel also maintained a personal art/making practice including making clothes, quilts and drawing. She then completed her studies in printed textiles and adult education. Now based in Bristol, she is busy gifting the city’s creatives with her sewing skills and her love of creating all sorts of textile artefacts that can become part of people's lives, all the while empowering people to nurture creative confidence.

FAQs

Is this workshop open to beginners?

• Yes, we are welcoming all levels of sewers on this workshop. We often find having varying degrees of experience adds to the atmosphere for all involved. We will form a supportive, encouraging, creative environment for one another. Even if you have never used a sewing machine before we can coach you through all the basics and get you making!

What about food and accommodation?

• We’ll provide tea, coffee and sweet treats

• We can recommend lots of cafes and tasty spots nearby for lunch

• We have decided to ask participants to make their own accommodation arrangements on this occasion. There is a beautiful boutique hotel next door to the studio called Artist Residence if you feel like treating yourself.

• If you are visiting Bristol from out of town, we have a handy guide full of top tips here

What is your cancellation policy?

• If you can no longer attend a workshop please let us know as far in advance as possible. We can usually re-sell your place and give you a 90% refund, but we cannot guarantee this if you cancel at the last minute.