National Needlework Archive

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The Old Chapel Textile Centre in Newbury, home of the National Needlework Archive, offer courses, workshops and exhibitions in sewing, haberdashery, needlecraft, textiles, embroidery, cross stitch, quilting and textile art. Our shop carries an extensive range of all needlework and sewing products including fabric, threads, wool, zips and patterns. We have an archive of historic textiles and patterns and are home to The Country Wife mural.

Activity Saturdays at The Old Chapel Textile Centre

Activity Saturdays 2025. Free demonstrations at 10.30am

On the first Saturday of each month The Old Chapel Textile Centre hosts a free sewing or craft demonstration at 10:30am. The demonstrations last for approximately ½ hour and are a great way of learning a new skill. The demo’s take place in our café so why not enjoy a tea/coffee whilst you are here.

1st March: Making simple knitted leaves & flowers.

5th April: Easter chick applique for seasonal projects.

3rd May: Examples of stitching on paper & using up scrap threads.

7th June: Introduction to cross stitch including choosing threads & fabrics for your projects.

5th July: Canvas work & quilt blocking.

2nd August: Creating mock chenille with fabric.

6th Sept: Making your own bias binding. Short length, continuous, and using clover folders.

4th October: Halloween inspiration. Applique a witch silhouette onto a sweet bag.

1st November: *Christmas theme decorations* See workshop programme for information.

6th December: Big Sale Day