The Tawe Guild of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers, - Home Page

Chairman's Challenge

2012-01-17T20:04:00.002Z

Eirian has come up with the challenge for this year - "To Autumn" by John Keats. An interesting choice with plenty of opportunities for interpretation. Enjoy!

All items to the Guild at The Cross by the end of March please

Nell

Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness

Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun

Conspiring with him how to load and bless

With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eaves run;

To bend with apples the moss'd cottage-trees,

And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core;

To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells

With a sweet kernel; to set budding more,

And still more, later flowers for the bees,

Until they think warm days will never cease,

For Summer has o'er-brimm'd their clammy cells.

Who hath not seen thee oft amid thy store?

Sometimes whoever seeks abroad may find

Thee sitting careless on a granary floor,

Thy hair soft-lifted by the winnowing wind;

Or on a half-reap'd furrow sound asleep,

Drows'd with the fume of poppies, while thy hook

Spares the next swath and all its twined flowers:

And sometimes like a gleaner thou dost keep

Steady thy laden head across a brook;

Or by a cider-press, with patient look,

Thou watchest the last oozings hours by hours.

Where are the songs of Spring? Ay, where are they?

Think not of them, thou hast thy music too,-

While barred clouds bloom the soft-dying day,

And touch the stubble-plains with rosy hue;

Then in a wailful choir the small gnats mourn

Among the river sallows, borne aloft

Or sinking as the light wind lives or dies;

And full-grown lambs loud bleat from hilly bourn;

Hedge-crickets sing; and now with treble soft

The red-breast whistles from a garden-croft;

And gathering swallows twitter in the skies.

2011-12-29T20:57:00.003Z

Wonderwool Wales

Yes ladies and gents, save your Christmas money from Santa and keep it safe to spend at Wonderwool Wales. I shall be going as per usual, but rather than just taking my usual shopping trolley, I might just have to take the rucksack as well. So many ideas, so much stash... Happy days!

www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk

Campaign for Wool

2011-12-09T22:48:00.003Z

Your intrepid reporter made the arduous journey to London (cough cough) to view this fantastic exhibition a couple of months ago. I can honestly say, having seen the Vivian Westwood coat close up, it is the first time I have really appreciated her as a designer.

Sorry folks - still learning how to use my new laptop - cannot get the photos the right way round!!

Nell

Christmas Exhibition

2011-12-09T22:20:00.006Z

What a fantastic exhibition! A huge thank you to everyone who gave their time and expertise to make the opening night such a success. A few photos....

Christmas Exhibition

2011-12-04T21:43:00.002Z

I'm back.... Arnie eat your heart out!!

Looking forward to seeing everyone at the opening of our Christmas Exhibition at the Civic Centre in Swansea on Tuesday 6th December. Evening kick off at 17:45.

Bring all the latest photos and gossip so I can update the blog.

See you then

Nell

notice of a change of venue

2011-08-12T22:38:00.003+01:00

We will be at Heather's house for our next meeting, any time from 10am is fine to arrive.

It will be the same as on Saturdays, bring food, not too much, just something to share. Tea and coffee will be provided. If you need the address contact Ann or Heather who will give you directions. There is plenty of room for wheels, regardless of the weather!

I look forward to seeing you all

Heather

A new arrival

2011-03-27T19:51:00.003+01:00

On the 26th March at 12.45, baby Marcus Dominic arrived speedily to make Carol a grandmother! He weighed in at 7lbs 5ozs, mother and baby are doimg well. Congratulations from all of us at Guild, send our good wishes to your daughter - you will be able to go to Wonderwool now!

Chairman's Challenge 2011

2010-10-05T22:54:00.003+01:00

This challenge seems to have become a regular event in our Guild, I would like the next one to be our theme for our 30th anniversary on April 13th, 2011.

Pearls and Sweetpeas are the symbols for a 30th anniversary celebration, so my challenge to you is to create an item from any fibre using any or many of the colours of sweetpeas. If you can include a pearl or two so much the better.

This is not a competition, but there may be random prizes, and I would like to retain all the entries for the duration of 2011 so that we can use them for the basis of our exhibition.

Please provide some information as to the content and techniques of your item (not more than one side of A4 paper).

This challenge is entirely optional but it would be nice to have lots of participants.

Eirian

2010-10-05T19:49:00.005+01:00

Hello,
So, this is my first attempt at Blogging, here goes, after a discussion at guild today I was asked to put on the site a plea for us all to look at home and check whether we have borrowed spinning bobbins from Guild, and to then return them a.s.a.p. as we are desparately short of them in the studio.

Our first Taster Day went well, those that came enjoyed their time, and provided work and other commitments permit, they may be back!

I am looking forward to being in Brecon on Saturday and most of us will probably be adding to our stashes. So bang goes that idea I had of finally having a clean slate. So many ideas and so little time.

Heather takes on Blogger

2010-10-03T14:43:00.005+01:00

Major changes afoot,

Watch this space!

pictures taken by Bob Grainger www.bobgraingerphotography.com at the Owain Glyndwr Festival

AN INVITE FOR THE GUILD

2010-05-10T20:55:00.002+01:00

An Invite from Ann Jordan

Welsh Guilds

2010-05-10T20:00:00.001+01:00

List of Welsh Guilds

Nell does it again!

2010-05-10T19:56:00.001+01:00

Hi Nell,

Many thanks, excellent presentation and informative talk - all enjoyed. Overwhelmed by the numbers that turned up, your spinning reputation is certainly "out there" now. Much appreciated.

See you soon,

Joan pp St.Hillary's Laidies Guild.

2010-05-10T19:53:00.001+01:00

Dear Guild Secretaries
The catalogue for the National Exhibition, opening on 17th April, is now available via the Association web site at http://www.wsd.org.uk/ex.htm.
With best regards
Matty

Dye Tuesday!!!

2010-05-10T19:37:00.003+01:00

Please bring comfy no worry clothes,
the stuff you want to dye,
towels for insulation and mop ups,
any dye you have that you want to try,
steamer bags or cling wrap or a container with a lid that can hold all your fibre etc.
thermometers, jugs, gloves and other useful bits and bobs.
gas hob b'b'q would be great(well I can wish)/
at least bikkies to keep you going. probably lunchy stuff!

Expect colourful chaos! Lots of shared fun and some amazing results!!!

See you the morrow and lets hope for a dry day!

Aberdulais Exhibition

2010-04-27T10:55:00.001+01:00

Aberdulais Exhibition

May 15- 16th

Chairman's Challenge plus anything else for exhibition or sale must be at Guild next Tuesday at the latest!

love Debb.

Congratulations Ann Jordan

2010-04-04T18:03:00.005+01:00

Ann's website

bbc

Beautiful Exhibition at the Blackmoountain Centre.

More from the press

New Season of Spinning in Public!!!!

2010-04-04T17:01:00.006+01:00

Bank Holiday Monday at The Cefn Coed Colliery Museum
Map

From 10ish til 4ish why not pop in for an hour.

See you there!

Need a wheel!!!

2010-03-30T10:01:00.002+01:00

Dear Secretaries.

The following information has come to our attention. The bid deadline is 31^st March but if you are able to circulate it to your members they may be interested. We understand that these wheels are much sought after and there are unlikely to be many more as the person who makes them is in his mid 80s.

With best regards

Matty

Mrs Matty Smith

Honorary Secretary

General Purposes Committee

Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers

secretary@wsd.org.uk

www.wsd.org.uk

---------------------------------------------

I am contacting you from Fair Isle, famous for its knitwear.

The island is very small (5km x 3km) with a population of around 65. We are a fragile community and The Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust (a tiny independent charity) is vital to the economy of the island as it brings in visitors, provides employment and also maintains the transport links to the outside world.

The Observatory is currently being rebuilt and will hopefully be finished this spring. However we are still trying to raise the last of the funds required to complete the project. One of the local islanders has been making beautiful hand-crafted spinning wheels here for the past 40 years and has donated one (no 106) for auction to help us raise funds. It would make a wonderful gift for a spinning enthusiast. However spinning is not my forte and I am finding it difficult to know where to publicise this. I wonder if you would be so kind as to help advertise this or provide a link to our website www.fairislebirdobs.co.ukwhere further details can be found.

very many thanks

Deryk Shaw.

Stewart Thomson of Shirva has very kindly donated his 106th spinning wheel to raise funds for the New Obs.
Made from parts of the old and new observatory, this unique, fully functioning, smooth-running, well-balanced wheel is now being auctioned.
For your chance to own a beautiful piece of working art, a piece of Fair Isle history and help FIBOT furnish its brand new building, send your bid using the contacts below.

The current highest bid for the spinning wheel is £500 on 30th march

Phone
01595 760258
or e-mail
fibo@btconnect.com
with your bids!
Closing date: 31st May

Stewart Thomson Spinning Wheel No 106

made from bits of the old & new Obs

Deryk Shaw

Warden, Fair Isle Bird Observatory, Fair Isle. Shetland. ZE2 9JU

Tel/Fax: 01595 760258

e-mail: fibo@btconnect.com e-mail: deryk.shaw@btconnect.com

www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk

March Newsletter National AssN

2010-03-16T14:31:00.001Z

WHAT’S ON

Details of these and other events are listed on the AGWSD website: http://www.wsd.org.uk

National Exhibition 2010: Kaleidoscope

Mansfield Museum 17 April-29 May 2010

For further information please contact Steve Kennett: exhibition@wsd.org.uk

Association AGM 2010: Mansfield Civic Centre - 1 May 2010

National week of spinning weaving & dyeing: 1-7 May 2010

Let us know what your Guild is doing to celebrate this week.

Shows (GPC Contact: Stuart Groom: Events@wsd.org.uk)

Wonderwool Wales 2010 – 24th & 25th April

Woolfest 2010 - 25th & 26th June

Knitting & Stitching shows:

7-10 October 2010 London, Alexandra Palace

25-28 November 2010, Harrogate International Centre, Yorkshire

New Spinning title - Call for submissions

I am the former editor of Yarn Forward magazine, and have been asked by KAL Media to assemble a special preview booklet of their forthcoming spinning title (to be launched later this year). We're pulling together features/articles and patterns both, and the preview booklet will be distributed at all the major fibre festivals this spring and summer.

For further details contact Shannon Okey, Knitgrrl Studio, knitgrrlstudio.com/shop, Alt Fiber: http://tinyurl.com/6byj8p

The Textile Society’s London Antique Textile Fair

Sunday 26 September 2010 at Kensington Town Hall

The Textile Society launches its’ first London Antique Textile Fair to complement the highly successful Manchester Fair, now in its 18th year. Good quality worldwide antique costumes and textiles from the 17^th century to the 1970’s will be available. Rugs pre 1950’s and good vintage dress and accessories will also be sold. There will be conservators and dealers in secondhand and new books.

For further information please visit the website: www.textilesociety.org.uk or email Kay Bryant at atf@textilesociety.org.uk or tel 01491 5721.

Masham Sheep Fair 25th & 26th September 2010

For further details contact Mrs. S. Cunliffe-Lister, High House, Swinton, Ripon HG4 4JH, email susan@burtonagnes.com

If you have any queries concerning anything in this newsletter please contact:

Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Road, Braddan, Isle of Man IM4 4HS. Email: newsletter@wsd.org.uk

THE ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF

WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS

NEWSLETTER NO 51 March 2010

From the Chairman

I am sure you are all looking forward to attending the Exhibition in Mansfield either as a special visit or as part of the attendance at the AGM. I am sure you will be inspired as ever by the work on show.

Do not forget to buy your raffle tickets - the stubs and money can be brought to the AGM to save postage etc. You can of course purchase even more tickets if your Guild has run out by then. Related to this - a number of Guilds have already returned their tickets with not one purchased. Could you please let me know the reasons for this. I do understand many have principles about buying such items but you may have other reasons. It would help if the GPC knew what these might be. It may mean that in future raffle books are not sent to some Guilds as a result of information you provide now.

The draw will take place mid afternoon on the final Saturday 29 May.

There have been many comments made about 'not knowing' Association information. Most of the time all these details are readily(?) available from the Guild secretary off the Association CD provided to all Guilds. The introduction page on the CD states "It is hoped that the information contained on the CD will be printed off by each Guild into a hard copy which can then be made available to all Guild members at their meetings." I often receive remarks about the Association 'needing to provide information to members' that is already available. Each Guild is autonomous and the Association cannot be blamed for the Guilds not providing information provided for dissemination. I shall be bringing a full printed copy of the CD information to the AGM to show delegates what each Guild should be providing for their members. Longer term members will remember an item termed the 'Brown Book' - this is today’s modern counterpart.

It is not too long now before publication of next year's Summer School details - keep your eye open for full information in the Autumn edition of The Journal.

Happy fruitful summer weaving, spinning and dyeing - in the open air.

Peter Penneck

GPC Matters

2010 AGM

The Association AGM will be held on 1^st May, 2010 at Mansfield Civic Centre. This will be during the National Exhibition which will be on display at Mansfield Museum. The AGM is timed to allow Guild Delegates and Observers to visit the Exhibition as well. If you have not yet received your AGM papers, please contact Matty Smith as soon as possible - secretary@wsd.org.uk.

Kaleidoscope Exhibition

Guilds will have received invitations for 2 members to attend the preview of the exhibition. If you have not yet responded, and will be attending, please respond as directed on the invitations. In view of the numbers involved, a non-response will be assumed to mean a non-attendance.

Prince Charles Woollen Initiative

The Times reports that Prince Charles hopes to establish a new green label for woollen products, and hopes that high street shops will commit to promote wool each season. The initiative would also back a Wool Week, set to take place before London Fashion Week in September – just as shoppers begin to acquire their winter wardrobe.

National Handweaving & Hand Spinning Week 2011

For National Handweaving and Hand Spinning Week in 2011, the Association is hoping to establish a working partnership with the National Trust, and other similar organisations, to enable historic venues to be available to Guilds as a focus for their activities. In addition we are planning to work with a national initiative called The Big Weave (see the article on page 12 of the Spring 2010 Journal), enabling those Guilds who are interested to set up a community weaving project. More details will be released soon, including details of regional centres where Guild members can gain the necessary training to run a community weaving project.

Journal Editorial Committee

There are a number of vacancies on the JEC. At present there is a need for someone to help with advertising and someone to look at new ways of promoting the Journal, but there will be other vacancies from April 2011. Working with the committee is rewarding and very interesting. Please consider volunteering your skills! If you would like to find out more about the work of the JEC, please contact Hilary Miller (or any other member of the JEC) (sec@thejournalforwsd.org.uk).

Speakers List

Irene Taylder has very kindly agreed to take over the Speakers List and invites feedback from Guilds on recent speakers used both off and from the list. Please channel feedback through Guild secretaries to Irene, who can be contacted at speakers@wsd.org.uk. Please do let us have any feedback, so we can keep the list up to date and relevant.

Calendar 2011: Call for photos

Please send good quality, attractive images in landscape format to Brenda Gibson to be considered for inclusion in the 2011 calendar. The deadline is 10 May 2010. Full details are given in the AGM papers, but, in brief:

· Email full resolution images to calendar@wsd.org.uk or

· send prints/ slides by post to: AGWSD Calendars, c/o Brenda Gibson, 20 Airedale Road, London SW12 8SF.

Each selected item qualifies for a complimentary copy of the final calendar.

Shows 2010

Knitting and Stitching Shows

Volunteers to organise the London show and the Harrogate show this year (assuming we’re invited!) would be welcome, and anyone wishing to help at either of these shows should contact Stuart Groom at Events@wsd.org.uk.

The new size association badges will be on sale price £3.00 at the AGM and all shows at which we have the stand or they can be purchased direct from Stuart Groom – Events@wsd.org.uk.

Woolfest

Can any Guilds exhibiting at Woolfest this year please let Stuart know your stand number so that a list can be displayed on the Association stand.

Communications to Guilds (via email and post)

Below is a list of communications you should have received from the GPC, and the dates on which they were circulated.

Please contact Matty Smith in the first instance if you have not received any of these items. (secretary@wsd.org.uk)

19th November 2009 2010 AGM initial letter plus nominations forms for GPC and JEC

6th January 2010 Kaleidoscope National Exhibition final version documents

17th January 2010 Revised Insurance Document

25th February 2010 Association 2010 AGM documents (nine attachments)

Assn news and Chairman's Report

2010-03-16T09:06:00.001Z

Go here for the covering letter and Agenda.

TH E ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS
Reg. Charity No. 289590 Website: www.wsd.org.uk President: Sheila J C Smith
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
REPORTS TO THE 2010 AGM OF THE ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF WEAVERS, SPINNERS & DYERS
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT
We say ‘Welcome’ to our new President, Sheila Smith who will serve the members well I am sure. You will
feel the benefit of her experience as time progresses.
We say goodbye to GPC member Val Thorne - retiring having completed her allowable time. I thank Val
for her quiet dependable approach to her work serving the members in their requests for information and
passing on information to the various officers and job holders. Although you think, Val, that you made
little difference to the GPC working you have proved a vital cog in the machine.
The period covered by this report contained one of the flagship events of the Association - a Summer
School. As you can read in another report from the Convenor it was a very successful and much
appreciated event.
As I had inside knowledge of the organising I know how hard a convenor works to provide members with
all that a Summer School entails. I was involved with the Companions activities - the comments received
from them about their partners’ enjoyment confirmed to me the comments made directly from many,
many students. The Association is very fortunate to have had the use of the facilities provided at Bishop
Grosseteste. I wish to place on public record the Association’s thanks to Judith Penneck for taking on the
Convening of the 2009 Summer School at short notice and making a success of it. She and I take that
thought from the comments made directly to us both, in our official positions, and directly to the College
Staff.
Apart from being involved with the Summer School the past year has not been an easy year regarding the
GPC. This is a result of the dramatic number of changes in the membership of the committee, gaining six
new members with only four experienced remaining. The Association lost a great deal of experience in
the retiring members in one fell swoop - as usual one does not appreciate what one has until it has gone.
I thank Trudi Thompson for taking on the Vice-Chairmanship, although it has not been an easy year for
her. It is good to see her back in better health. I wish to thank Matty Smith, Secretary and Jenifer Midgley,
Treasurer for taking on those positions after an exceedingly short membership of the GPC - less than a
year each. The other new members have had a great deal to learn in a very short time, becoming involved
in another Association big activity - the biennial Exhibition, and looking further ahead to both the next
locations of Summer Schools and Conferences, and new communication systems. The new members have
had to accept directions from the more experienced GPC members - not always easy on either side. Each
member has had to accept we all have different viewpoints resulting from enthusiasm and/or experience.
As a result of appeals to Guilds placed previously we appear now to be back on track with the system of
knowing who the next and next-but-one organisers are. This is important both for the Association and
local organisers, giving all more time to deal with the matters involved.
All members of the GPC recognise that it has not been an easy year for any GPC member. We have settled
together as a working team that will gain in experience.
I thank all the GPC members for pulling together for the benefit of the Association.
The Journal Editorial Committee has continued to produce excellent issues of our quarterly ‘The Journal’ -
I think the standard improves as time goes on. Thank you to all the JEC members.
Two Association members undertook assessment of their Certificate of Achievement work, with a third
having to delay until next time in Scotland due to illness. We congratulate them on gaining their awards.
You will notice from the Agenda that one item is headed ‘Special Award’. This involves an award to a
person whom the GPC wishes to recognise publicly for all the work carried out on behalf of the
Page | 2
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
Association over many, many years. The person concerned knows of an award being given but not exactly
what it is.
I wish to put on public record the work carried out by our Minute Taker, Beverly Usher. I am always
amazed how organised the minutes turn out from some of the discussions at the meetings. How she
keeps from commenting on our discussions is a feat in itself -she is not allowed to remark at all.
You will have read reports from all the activity position holders - I will not comment further except to say
‘Thank You’ to them on your behalf that they are willing to carry out these various jobs, often
unrecognised by members until queries are raised.
The AGM takes place in Mansfield so that delegates and observers have the chance to view the Exhibition
after a shortened meeting. I hope more Guilds will feel able to send Delegates and Observers to the AGM
- this is your chance to question face to face those running the Association, or the work being carried out
on your behalf.
Peter Penneck, Chairman
HONORARY TREASURER’S REPORT
I faced another steep learning curve after taking on the task of Calendars 2010, by following Joy McMillan
as Hon. Treasurer of the Association and she has been indeed a hard act to follow. However help has
been constantly on hand both from Joy and the members of the GPC.
I will list some items for income and expenditure using data from my own records and the bank
statements. The complete figures are still subject to audit.
INCOME
Affiliation fees are still set at £3.75 per member except where membership is below 10 when a fee of
£37.50 is paid.
Guilds which meet outside of the U.K. are not full members but pay a fee of £15. These guilds are not
covered by our insurance policy, cannot claim travel expenses for sending a representative to an AGM but
can subscribe to the Journal at membership rates, attend Summer Schools at membership rates and
receive Association news via our newsletters. At present we have two guilds in Ireland, one in South
West France and one in Serbia in this category.
I am pleased to say that only two U.K. guilds and two non U.K. guilds did not pay their fees in 2009 but all
were paid by the end of January 2010. I am sure this promptness is partly due to the earlier date
requested for fees to be paid but also to the constant vigilance of our Secretary Matty Smith in keeping
the data on guild contacts up to date and to Val Thorne for her timely reminders. Total income from
Affiliation fees this year was £20018 and this includes the fees from 20 guilds paying their 2008 fees in
2009.
Summer School has again given us a boost in income with a profit of £12666
I intend to make some changes to our deposited funds as interest rates this year have reduced our
income from investments by over 50%.
EXPENDITURE
Most categories have shown a drop in costs although our largest outlay was again for insurance. Our
Public Liability cover was increased to £5,000,000 with an increase in the premium of £1083. This was to
bring us in line with requests from the organisers of venues for demonstrations and exhibits.
I hope by now that all guilds have received documentation of this increased cover, certainly all guilds have
been sent this information but electronic communications still seem to fall into loopholes. Hard copies
can be sent if they are still needed.
Page | 3
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
Detailed figures will be circulated once the accounts have been audited by our accountants, CLB Coopers.
However the Association figures which I have to hand show an excess of income over expenditure of
£17,300, the major part of which is the profit from our Summer School.
Many thanks again go to Peter Penneck, Val Thorne and to Joy McMillan for their help during the year.
Jenifer Midgley, Hon. Treasurer
HONORARY SECRETARY’S REPORT
This is my first AGM report so I am finding my way a bit in terms of reporting what I have been doing over
the past year. Indeed now that I sit down to summarise it, it doesn’t look like very much!
Communication has been, and remains, a key part of the Secretary’s role. It has been rewarding that now
all except five Guilds have an email contact address. This allows for speedy transmission of information to
the Guilds and enables me to respond quickly to any issues or questions raised by Guild Secretaries
themselves. Equally generic email addresses for GPC members have also been established which will
make for greater efficiency going forward. Continuing on this theme of using technology to enhance
effectiveness, the GPC now has a shared area on the Internet that allows for the efficient sharing of
documents and information.
As we shall see later this morning, there are a number of further possibilities around the use of
technology that have been developed to improve communication further– especially in relation to the
sharing of information directly between Guilds.
However, we are very aware that access to the internet is neither universal nor constant and so seeking
confirmation of receipt of messages is very important as is the use of postal services when necessary.
The number of GPC meetings has increased to four a year and planning these, as well as the AGM, has
been something of a learning curve for me. Things are gradually falling into place and hopefully each year
going forward through my term in office will see improvements in the quality of ‘secretaryship’.
I would like to thank my fellow GPC members for their support and forbearance this year, especially
Peter, our Chairman, whose knowledge of the all things Association and GPC has been vital in keeping us
focused.
Matty Smith, Hon. Secretary
CORRESPONDENCE SECRETARY’S REPORT
Please accept my apologies for not being present at the AGM. I feel sure that it will be a good event,
especially as it is combined with a visit to the National Exhibition.
It is now time for me to stand down from the GPC so this final report is by way of a reflection. I joined the
GPC knowing little of how it and the Association functioned, so I have learnt a great deal!
When I first joined the GPC we had no nominated minute taker, so I enrolled for a day course and when
the organiser learnt that the Association has NO PAID STAFF my fees were refunded. So the Association
and The Journal are both products of entirely voluntary teams who meet regularly across the year to coordinate
and begin the organising of the AGM, Summer Schools and conferences, and to produce our
excellent quarterly magazine. Needless to say these could not come to completion without the support
of guild members. I think that is amazing.
So to summarise, the position I have held acts as information or filtering point dealing with:
• Daily junk mail that comes via the post and email.
• Putting people in touch with each other- to sell fleece or equipment, learn to spin etc.
• Giving prospective new members information about their local guild.
Page | 4
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
• Giving information to professionals making enquiries about the Association; TV production teams and
journalists, and so on.
It was satisfying to see an end product for one set of enquiries; the article entitled ‘Spinning a Yarn ‘by
Clare Kelly, published in the January issue of ‘Knitting’ magazine - not something that happened very
often. We exchanged several emails and spoke on the phone regarding the article, and thank you to the
Devon guild for their help.
My thanks go to the many secretaries with whom I have had contact, also to my colleagues on the GPC for
their help and support.
At this moment in time we have a very strong organisation and each individual guild member is important
in its’ continuing success. The GPC needs to be able to draw on your skills and support as and when a
position/vacancy arises.
Please consider offering your skills to allow the Association to continue going from strength to strength:
YOU ARE THE ASSOCATION!
Valerie Thorne, Correspondence Secretary
2009 SUMMER SCHOOL REPORT
The Summer School took place at Bishop Grosseteste University College, Lincoln 2-9 August 2009.
13 courses were advertised covering the three areas of our crafts. Two were cancelled due to not
attracting sufficient numbers to be financially viable. In all 152 students attended, 8 of whom were day
students. The weaving courses attracted the most applications. There were 12 members involved with the
Companions programme. An evening programme of talks was arranged and the topics were well
attended. Of the total, 33% were first time Summer School attendees. 84.2% got their first choice, 13.8%
their second choice with 2% getting their third choice.
Some people who had chosen the courses which were cancelled hung on to see if the numbers increased
and were disappointed and had their deposits refunded. Some did not wait for cancellation but moved to
another course. The third choice students came mostly from this group. Most of those went onto the Spin
to Knit course which was a double tutor course and could take a greater number of students.
Course student numbers ranged from 11 to 24.
The tutor fee was increased by 20% from 2007 along with an increase in the mileage allowance, over the
Association rate when set. Even so the charge to students was only slightly higher than 2007 as the
advertised Falmouth fees included VAT whereas this one was VAT free. A comment has been made that
perhaps it would have been better to increase the student fee more - in reality the fee had been
increased, as the Association, being a Charity, does not have to pay VAT.
Unfortunately one student ended up in hospital - not from any problem originating from Summer School -
and had to have an operation, missing the Saturday Dinner. She was released from hospital on the Sunday
to be taken home by a fellow student.
The Trade Fair attracted 16 suppliers - more wanted to come. It was crowded but I tried to get a cross
section of different traders. Some who had been to previous Fairs assumed that they could attend again.
This is not necessarily true as some new traders need to be brought in each time to add variety. The
space, costs of the venue etc. all affects what is possible in each venue - they all differ. The local Convenor
knows what will work for each venue.
You will read about the Certificate of Achievement in Amanda’s report.
I took on the job with under two years from start to finish which sounded a long time but with many
deadlines to meet meant that all arrangements had to be finalised within six months of starting. To help
future convenors could all students, tutors and traders please remember that deadlines set for them are
Page | 5
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
not set arbitrarily. They are timed to enable convenors to do the job and to meet their deadlines -
advertising, brochures, etc.
No sooner had I volunteered than the Credit Crunch crunched!! It was a worrying time that it might not
break even let alone make a surplus. I hoped that the Raffle and Silent Auction would help with this
possibility. These two supplied £961.65. Thank you to those who supplied raffle prizes and goods, and to
those who spent their hard earned money.
I thank the tutors who worked very hard sometimes starting early and also late in to the evening.
I was backed up by my group of helpers from my Guild and I thank them sincerely for their guidance and
assistance.
I thank all those who helped me in so many ways with advice, information and amusing emails! They all
helped a lot.
In the end a surplus resulted because the College was very generous with its discount and more students
signed up than the minimum numbers required to balance the expenses. The surplus was £11,865.91.
I want to record my thanks to all at Bishop Grosseteste College for the very helpful service provided - the
comments received from students to me, the chairman direct, and to the college authorities bear witness
that it proved a most enjoyable Summer School.
Judith Penneck, 2009 Summer School Convenor
SUMMER SCHOOL 2011
Plans for the next Summer School in 2011, to be held at Queen Mary University, Edinburgh, from 8th – 13th
August, are well underway. Doreen Marsh and Margaret Vaughan (both Edinburgh Guild) have very
kindly offered to undertake this important task, for which the Association is very grateful.
Whilst everything is still very much at the planning stage, with costs, tutors, courses etc still to be
finalised, we can give you an outline, as matters stand at this point in time.
Costs: The cost per participant has currently been calculated at £590.00 per participant, which covers full
board and tuition fees. This has been based on an expected number of 200 participants. All bedrooms are
en-suite (albeit a very small shower room). There are single and double rooms available.
Planning: It had been hoped that all potential tutors would have their proposals in by the end of last year.
All but one has done so, but the organisers are still waiting for photographs and references from one or
two – It is anticipated they will have a meeting to go over the proposals in the near future, to check the
suitability of the tutor and what she is proposing, to ensure a good, varied selection of courses. All tutors
have been asked for references and the tutors' contracts will be based on those used in previous summer
schools.
Tutors who have agreed to come are:
Janet Renouf-Miller - basic spinning
Sue MacNiven - advanced/fine spinning
Carol Leonard - drop spindle spinning
Janis Embleton - basic 4 or 8 shaft weaving
Sara Lamb (from USA) - advanced weaving
Dot Seddon - tapestry weaving
Fiona Moir - indigo dyeing
Debbie Tomkies - chemical dyeing
Lynn Ramsbottom - wet felting
Liz Brown - 3D needle felting
Helen Cowans - textile embellishment
Liz Balfour - rush basket weaving
Di Gilpin - knitting.
The GPC will be given details of each of these courses for final approval. As there is only access to two wet
rooms, course content is a little limited in that direction.
Page | 6
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
Trade stands: It is hoped that the traditional trade show will be held at Summer School, although details
of traders are not yet available. The invitation to have a stand will be given to Scottish suppliers, in the
first instance. This will be open on Friday afternoon to participants and to Guild members from 10.00-4.00
on Saturday. Visitors will also be able to view student’s work as well the tutors’ exhibition.
Booking: It is anticipated that all information regarding the Summer School 2011 will appear in the
September 2010 Journal and of course full information will be available to download from the Association
website. For those without Internet access there will be a brochure and application form available by
post.
Angela Colbridge, Events Coordinator
EXHIBITION 2010
The Exhibition will be held at Mansfield Museum from April 17th to May 20th. As museums go, it is
smaller than many but offers a vibrant programme of exhibitions throughout the year and is well
supported locally.
Kaleidoscope, the theme of our exhibition, encourages the imaginative use of colour and shape.
Planning the exhibition has been a challenge. Rather than taking the usual two years there was barely a
year to pull it together. Also, it has been necessary to plan the exhibition almost from square one because
entries are, for the first time, by photograph. This led to the need for new paperwork. The forms have
been revised a number of times following additional input from GPC colleagues, guilds, and further
thinking by me! I am grateful for everyone’s patience while this took place.
At the time of writing we are waiting to receive all the entries before the closing date of March 1st.
Selection for the exhibition will be undertaken by Paddy Bakker, Janet Philips, and John Allen and we owe
them our thanks for undertaking this task.
I am very pleased that Angela Colbridge has offered to hang the exhibition for us - it is one of her areas of
expertise. Sue Rolf, a member of Notts. Guild has been busy inviting members of local Guilds to assist
prior, during, and after the exhibition takes place, and we are grateful to her for the work she has
undertaken and to those who have agreed to join in.
Steve Kennett, Exhibition Convenor
AGM EXHIBITION REPORT 2010
The Association exhibition stand went to fours shows during the year and we set up a stall selling Journals
and cards plus Association badges at the Summer School in Lincoln.
The Association have to pay for stalls at some shows; namely Wonderwool Wales and Woolfest. But we
are given a free stand at the National Knitting & Stitching shows. We exhibit to promote the Association
of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers and it costs us more to stage these stands than we get in
income but we believe that the stands we have are well worth it from the interest that they generate
both for local Guilds and for the Association.
The stands are always well set up and usually have examples of work from the local Guilds on display and
this year we have to thank the following for participating in assisting with set up and removal of the
stands and for manning the stands across the duration of each exhibition / show.
For Wonderwool Wales 2009 we have to say thank you to Hillary Miller of North Wales for collecting the
Stand equipment, setting up and taking down the stand, arranging for the Guild display during the show,
organising the manning of the stand and then for storing the stand items before taking them up to
Woolfest in Cumbria. Thank - you Hillary! Please note: Hillary has again agreed to do the same for
Wonderwool 2010 the dates for which are: 24th & 25th April 2010.
Page | 7
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
The stand then went to Woolfest 2009 where Peter and Judith Penneck helped Hillary set up the stand
during the Thursday afternoon. During the two days of the show the stand was manned by Peter and
myself and numerous Guild members from all over the country who came and gave up an hour or two to
be on the stand and to meet many visitors both guild and non guild members who wanted to know a little
bit more about what we do. Peter and I, with some help, took down the stand on the Saturday and some
of it went with Peter to the Summer School in Lincoln. Many thanks, to all those attending Woolfest who
dropped in to say hello or to ask questions, and a special thank you to all those who came onto the stand
to help during the two days.
We then set up in the main reception area during the Summer school trade day on the Saturday – which
was very well attended and along with Angela Pawlyn, from the Journal, we sold postcards, Journals past
and present, and chatted to the many visitors. Again thanks to all those members who dropped by even if
it was just to say hello or to introduce them-selves. I always find it interesting to meet people who I have
heard of or seen their name in the journal or on line and it is always nice to put a face to the name.
The next stop for the stand was the Knitting and Stitching show London – All the equipment was
dispatched by me to Penny Brazier of London Guild who did a fabulous job in setting up the stand and
organizing the rota of volunteers to who went along to run the stand on each of the four days. There were
a lot of positive comments from visitors to the show who went onto the stand to see the work on display
and the work being demonstrated. When the show finished all the equipment was repacked and sent
back to me by courier ready for transferring to the Harrogate event. Many thanks to all those who
assisted in setting up, supplying items for display manning and taking down the stand in London.
The final show of the year was the Harrogate Knitting and Stitching show where we had four local guilds
each manning the stand for one whole day. Many thanks go to the teams from Hallamshire, York,
Bradford and Craven Guilds for all the work they did on each of the days. As we had a different guild on
the stand each day the stand was different on every day and we had comment that people were going
back each day to see what was now on display as they heard it was changing. Each day members were on
the stand talking to the visitors and busy demonstrating; so yet again many, many thanks to all the
members of the four guilds for supporting the event yet again.
And a special thank you to Dot Seddon who very kindly agreed to receive all the equipment via the courier
and to go along to set up the stand for us – Thank you Dot. She also came along to help me take it down
and move the equipment back to the car.
Many thanks to all who gave help to the teams running the stands during the year in whatever way you
did it.
I end with an appeal – Hillary has again agreed to organize the Wonderwool event – I will be doing
Woolfest with Peter but would like to hear from anyone who would like to come on the stand to help us
and any offer of help will be gratefully received.
Also we are looking for a guild or number of guilds to take on the stand for K&S show in London for the
2010 event – I will do all the booking but it is the setting up, taking down, display of members work, and
the manning of the stand that needs someone local to undertake for us. If you would like to offer then
please contact me ASAP.
Likewise if there are other guilds that would like to get involved with the show in Harrogate then now is
the time to let us know.
Thanks to everyone that has supported me during the 2009 exhibition season – I hope the 2010 one goes
as well.
Stuart Groom, Events Coordinator
Page | 8
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL
ASSOCIATION CALENDARS 2010
Many apologies to all for making such a slow start to calendar production last year but home and health
problems intervened. After several unsuccessful approaches to printers I turned to the Lincoln based
printer of the previous year hoping that stocks would be available for the Summer School week, we only
just made it.
Following recommendations from the 2009 production 2000 copies with envelopes were ordered at a
printing cost of £4370, with an additional charge of £140 for delivery to London of the major part of the
order. Prices were kept in line with the previous year but with the inevitable increase in postage costs.
Orders were received from 93 guilds with several individual requests where guilds did not order in bulk. I
also received requests from the U.S.A. , France and New Zealand.
1472 copies were sold and a further 148 were distributed as complimentary copies to guilds and
contributors. The total income was £5724.35 and the total expenditure £5209.53 covering printing,
delivery, postage, packing and the journal advertisement. A profit of £514.82 was made but we have a
surplus of over 360 calendars.
I have to offer sincere thanks to those guilds ordering during the time of the Royal Mail problems for their
prompt acknowledgements of receipt and also to a few who ordered near to Christmas who were
similarly helpful.
I must admit I did not find this an easy task but I was pleased to have many telephone conversations with
guild members from all parts of the country. The next issue will be managed by both Brenda Gibson and
Matty Smith with the tasks of production and distribution separated.
Jenifer Midgley, 2010 Calendar Coordinator
ASSOCIATION CALENDARS 2011
Responsibility for the production and printing of the 2011 calendars has passed to Brenda Gibson who will
be very pleased to receive good quality images in landscape format for consideration. The deadline for
images to reach Brenda is 10 May 2010.
The essentials are that the picture is an attractive and interesting image and of sufficient technical quality
(resolution, focus etc) for satisfactory print reproduction, and that the copyright owner gives appropriate
permission for reproduction. Digital images should be submitted at full resolution by email (to
calendar@wsd.org.uk) or prints/ slides from film cameras can be sent by post to: AGWSD Calendars, c/o
Brenda Gibson, 20 Airedale Road, London SW12 8SF or handed to Brenda at the AGM in Mansfield. Please
also include your name and Guild and sufficient information for a suitable caption to the image, crediting
both maker and photographer, if different. If submitting by post, please remember a stamped addressed
envelope for the return of the original photograph. You will be notified if your image is selected and each
selected item qualifies for a complimentary copy of the final calendar. We hope to have a good
representation of each of our crafts in the 2010 calendar, so please do send in lots of stunning images.
Guilds attending Woolfest 2010 on 25-26 June 2010 will be able to collect a complimentary sample
calendar and Guild bulk order form from the Association stand there. Single copies will also be available
to buy. The order form and payment should be returned to AGWSD Calendars, c/o Matty Smith, 17 St
Mary's Close, Henley on Thames, RG9 1RD, who has undertaken the job of despatching calendar orders.
Enquiries sent to calendar@wsd.org.uk will also reach Matty.
Brenda Gibson, 2011 Calendar Coordinator
Certificate of Achievement report AGM 2010
The 2009 Summer School saw two candidates, one in tapestry weaving and the other in spinning,
submitting portfolios for assessment, both of whom were awarded Certificates. We congratulate them on
their achievements.
Page | 9
Chairman: Peter Penneck, Fougou, Silver Street, Wragby, Market Rasen, Lincolnshire. LN8 5PJ
Vice Chairman: Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Rd., Braddan, I of Man IM4 4HS
Hon. Treasurer: Jenifer Midgley, 86 St. Margaret’s Road, Twickenham, Middlesex TW1 2LP
Correspondence Sec. Val Thorne, 17 Shearer Road, Fratton, Portsmouth. PO1 5LL

Andrew Johnson,s Workshop March 13th

2010-03-10T14:30:00.003Z

Second of two workshops, a continuation on the spinning theme.
Andrew will bring combs to demo. blending.
He suggests that we all bring:
some singles "s" spun,
some singles "z" spun,
tops/roving and
sewing thread for plying in new and innovative ways!

Don't forget lunch,

see you there, Debb.

And so they made warp and spun!!!

2010-03-09T11:18:00.003Z

Sorry Andrew, Nell couldn't concentrate cos Wales were playing Scotland!!

More warp, small but perfectly formed thanks to Norma!

Chris gets it all sorted out !

And she spins!

The end of Heather's beautiful weaving in linen and her latest warp chained and ready to go!

And where were they?........................

Lunch!!!!
Thanks and Well done All.

Spinning Workshop 13th Feb 2010.

2010-02-12T13:52:00.004Z

With Rev Andrew Johnson.

Bring something you want to spin or learn to spin,

bring your carders, or drumcarder if you have one.

Pen and paper, niddy noddy and your wheel or spindle if you prefer.

Plate lunch to share as usual, (Andrew doesn't eat chocolat!!!)

10am til 4pm, At the Cross, Pontardawe.

See you soon. DeBB

Date Shift

2010-01-15T16:42:00.001Z

Warping with Norma, due to the expected continuation of this cold snap, workshop movned to next weekend.

New date will be 23rd Jan.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-22T22:21:00.002Z

Wishing all our members greetings for the festive season! And to all our blog viewers, potential members and to everyone who has spent time finding out more about us!

http://www.youshock.com/skills/sheep_reaction_test/#

Go on, have a laugh this Christmas!

All the best to everyone

Nell

Committee meeting 4th Dec -CANCELLED

2009-12-03T21:39:00.000Z

Due to too few members being available for our meeting 4th Dec, it will have to be cancelled, sorry about the notice but numbers plummetted quickly!

I suggest meeting up instead on our Saturday 12th Dec Bring a Plate Lunch. Contact me if there's a problem.

Debb

Assn. Newsletter

2009-12-01T09:05:00.000Z

WHAT’S ON

Details of these and other events are listed on the AGWSD website: http://www.wsd.org.uk

Shows

Knitting & Stitching show:

19-22 November 2009, Harrogate International Centre, Yorkshire

National Exhibition 2010: Kaleidoscope

Mansfield Museum 17 April-29 May 2010

For further information please contact Steve Kennett: exhibition@wsd.org.uk

Association AGM 2010: Mansfield Civic Centre 1 May 2010

National week of spinning weaving & dyeing: 1-7 May 2010

Let us know what your Guild is doing to celebrate this week.

If you have any queries concerning anything in this newsletter please contact:

Trudi Thompson, 2 Mount Rule Cottages, West Baldwin Road, Braddan, Isle of Man IM4 4HS. Email: newsletter@wsd.org.uk

THE ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF

WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS

NEWSLETTER NO 50 November 2009

From the Chairman

I am sure you are now putting the finishing touches to your items for submission to the Exhibition. Good luck. To those that worried about photo submissions - I have to say that if Notts Guild exhibition at Newark is an example you do not need to worry. I was impressed that the whole of the exhibition itself is with photographs of articles. It can be as impressive as having the items on show. With demonstration days to show the public how items were produced it can help solve long term stewarding schedules. I look forward to hearing from Notts Guild itself on the feed back they receive about this method of exhibiting our crafts.

At the time of writing one worry about the exhibition is the possible disruption of the postal service and submission dates. Connected with this is the distribution of raffle tickets. Please bear with the GPC in its efforts to overcome potential problems.

Have a very Happy Christmas and a good introduction to the New Year.

Peter Penneck

GPC Matters

Association President

We are pleased to announce that Sheila Smith has agreed to become President of the Association. Sheila will be well known to many of you, and we offer her a very warm welcome to her new role.

Insurance

The Insurance Policy is now renewed and a copy of the document will be sent to all guilds that have renewed their Affiliation. (If you have not yet paid your affiliation fees, this might be a good time to do it!) Please remember that these documents should be retained by the guild secretary or treasurer for members to consult.

Calendars

The 2010 calendars are now available. For further details or to order your copy, contact Jenifer Midgley, email calendars@wsd.org.uk.

National Exhibition 2010

Plans are now well underway for the 2010 National Exhibition, which is taking place at Mansfield Museum from 17^th April-29^th May 2010

The theme this year is Kaleidoscope, which many of you will already be working on. For those still pondering, here is some food for thought.

Kaleidoscope definition: Greek words are the source of the name; it comes from kalos, eidos, and skopios meaning beautiful, form, and view, respectively.

It is an optical toy, in which one sees an ever changing variety of beautiful colours and forms; a delightfully diverse and unpredictable sequence of sights, events etc.

Although the ancient Greeks, including the mathematician Ptolemy, had contemplated the effects of abutting multiple mirrors, the kaleidoscope is the creation of one man. David Brewster (1781-1868) was born in Scotland and educated to become a minister at the University of Edinburgh. University studies exposed him to the wonders of science, however, and he abandoned the church in favour of studying the properties of light. He became an expert in polarization of light , reflection of light using metal, and light absorption. For his scientific discoveries, Brewster was elected a fellow of the Royal Society (Britain's leading scientific organization) in 1815 and knighted in 1831.

Closing date for all submission is 1st March and all Guild secretaries have now been sent all the information in relation to this, including the submission forms. All entries have to be submitted by photo only and this must be done via your Guild Secretary.

Should you require still further information please contact Exhibition organiser Steve Kennett: exhibition@wsd.org.uk

Raffle Prizes

If anyone has any further prizes for the raffle run in conjunction with the Exhibition, please contact Isabel Swift, 3 Victoria Avenue, Woodhall Spa, Lincs LN10 6TY Isabel Swift<nigel.swift@tesco.net> (Please keep emails short, as this is not a broadband address)

Association CD Review

This resource is due for a full revision and will be re-issued next year. Jo Onions, has kindly agreed to progress that task. Please discuss within your Guilds what information on the CD is especially in need of up-dating, what new information you would like to see being made available and what information currently on the CD is either obsolete or unnecessary. Jo can be contacted on cd@wsd.org.uk.

Speakers List

Irene Taylder, has very kindly agreed to take over the Speakers List and invites feedback from Guilds on recent speakers used both off and from the list. Please channel feedback through Guild secretaries to Irene, who can be contacted at speakers@wsd.org.uk

2010 AGM

The Association AGM will be held on 1^st^{May, 2010 at Mansfield Civic Centre}^{. This will be during the National Exhibition which will be on display at Mansfield Museum. We aim to ensure that the AGM is timed to allow Guild Delegates and Observers to visit the Exhibition as well. More details will follow but please start discussing within your Guild any topics they might want to put forward}^{for discussion at the AGM or propositions they would like to have considered.}

^{Summer School 2013.}

^{This is tentatively located in Wales during the last week of August 2013 and plans are in hand. Details will be communicated to Guilds as they are confirmed.}

^{Location, location, location…..!!}

^{We are very keen to hear from any Guild, or group of Guilds within the South East area of the UK, who have the ideal location for the Exhibition 2012 on their doorstep. We need to confirm this within the next two months if we are going to ensure adequate planning time. Equally we are hoping there will also be suggestions sent in from Guilds in the South West area of the UK on the location and support for the 2011 AGM and Conference. Do, please, come forward with your ideas.}^{Contact the GPC Secretary in the first instance:}^{secretary@wsd.org.uk.}

14th November Dyeing workshop ( Isabel - Dyeing to match socks etc)

2009-11-13T17:36:00.002Z

Equipment you will need

Apron (old clothes),

Rubber gloves,

3 marg tubs, or similar, ie yoghurt pots or chinese takeaway pots

3 empty 500ml water bottles plastic

3 kichen sponge scrubby things, cheapo ones are perfect

an old towel

a plastic bag to take home wet stuff

cheap cling film roll

Wool yarn in skeins to dye or a piece of knitting made with 2 strands of wool knitted together!!!

a plate of something to share for lunch

2009-11-11T16:56:00.002Z

Hello all
Just thought you would like to know that Gill Dobson is back in Britain for a short while, and hopes to come to the guild on Tuesday week - (Nov 24th). So if you would like to see her, put a ring round the date in your diary! She is looking forward to seeing everyone, and having a guided tour round the storeroom.
Chris C

This is interesting!

2009-11-06T21:00:00.001Z

Go Here to see what Michelle found

Muriel Clement - soon at the Mission

2009-10-28T21:56:00.002Z

[enlarge]

14 November 2009 - 3 January 2010

Muriel Clements’ tapestries encompass the constantly changing, interacting pattern of earth, sea and sky. The reflective quality of the yarn, combined with its richness of colour, expresses a very personal statement about the environment in which she lives.

Gloucester Place Maritime Quarter Swansea SA1 1TY

open daily 11am - 5pm

Fun Friday Felting!

2009-10-28T21:25:00.003Z

Eirian and I are going to warp up the big loom and I hope to do some banner felting too, see you about 10.30 ish!!

Debb

From Gill (VC)

2009-10-27T07:48:00.000Z

Public liability in place!

Committee mins.

2009-10-27T07:45:00.000Z

Look in newsletters page for lastest mins.

Saturday workshop 10th October - Planning a joint banner workshop

2009-10-09T15:11:00.004+01:00

10 am at the Cross until 4pm.

Also admiring of the big loom!! Thanks Norma, Eirian and Gill. And our new stash!

Bring plate lunch as usual and ofcourse yourselves!

Debb. :)

NOTE FOR COMMITTEE - Extra meeting 23rd October 7pm,

Re: Insurance.

All Wales

2009-10-05T14:45:00.004+01:00

Our main display More photos here.

Colin had a clear out!!!

2009-10-02T18:37:00.002+01:00

Well, I was summoned to Rhos to collect Colin's wool and stuff, what a bounty, and when you read this online Colin, thanks very, very much from Tawe Guild.

At least a dozen fleeces, kilos and kilos of yarn and niddy noddies, to add to the skein winder and cone wrangling device that have already arrived. The car was stuffed to the gunnels, Dougi and I hauled it all down into the store and I'm now hoping for volunteers to help sort it!!! Apparently there is still more in the loft for us!! Just wait til you see it all!

All Wales

2009-10-02T17:59:00.001+01:00

Prep. for the ALL WALES

Don't forget Tawe Guild will be at the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers' All Wales Event in Llanidloes, Mid Wales on Saturday, October 3rd. This is a biennial event, held in the Minerva Centre in Llanidloes, and is generally a good get-together and catch-up session for all the Welsh Guilds.

We will be doing the raffle!

Chris and her red, red runner!

Carol and her silk two-tone scarf!

Dorethy does a twirl in her newly tailored, handspun, handwoven gilet!

Newsletter Sept 09

2009-09-29T23:21:00.004+01:00

Thanks to Liz, Clare and Eirian a fine couple of days spinning outdoors!What could be better and chainmail too! MORE PHOTOS ON HERE

Newsletter see here.

If you can't open your email from Ann Fox please let her know!

Eirian is whipping all the display stuff into shape for the "All Wales" on Thursday Ist Oct'

Any Water themed or recycled bits and bobs by 10am at the Basement Studio, The Cross, Please.

"All Wales" is Saturday 3rd October.

Huge thanks to Colin Morgan, a founder member of the group, for his donated hardwood vertical skeinwinder and his cone wrangling stand. Also if you have time pop in and look at his photo albums etc.

For those who need to know, I had accidently over cooked my router by tidying DvDs too close to it on the shelf, apparently if too warm it curls up and goes to sleep. After being relieved of its thermals its now fit and well and dancing its little lights off, yeayh love internetty!!! See I knew housework was dangerous, who knew it could cut off your comms. Must take care not to over do the cleaning in future!!!!

More later am going to bed, "what,s on" will be up tomorrow!! Night all, love and stuff Debb

And on behalf of the treasurer - Fees Due 09/10 - ASAP

2009-09-16T12:22:00.003+01:00

Please fill out your membership form
and give it and your fees to Debb or Michelle

by end of September.

Details ofNew Fee structure GO HERE

Ann on the plinth!!

2009-09-16T12:14:00.002+01:00

Go here to watch a video of her hour on the fourth plinth!

From Australia!!!!

2009-09-04T16:22:00.001+01:00

Hi Debs,

I expect you will have realised by now that I have left. I went thinking that I would return in June to pack and say goodbye. However, we did manage to sell the house and it was such a horrible experience that Gresham just wanted to get out and over here and so he did. I never managed to get into the guild web site and so i will send this to and please pass it on to the others.

I really just want to say a big big thank you to all the members who were such a great lot. I loved being in the group from the very first day.
Everyonewas so friendly and helpful and were always so ready to help and give up their time when I got stuck which was often. It set me on the road to a new hobby and more. As you well know, one thing leads to another and before you know it there is another project under way. Also the friendships I made were so important to me.

In particular I owe so much to Norma who opened all the doors, Marj, Eirian, Isabel, Margot, Carol, Gill and all the other "originals" (for me ).

I will be returning in November and hope to be in Wales on a Tuesday so that I can pop in and see the new storage as well as all the old faces! Yesterday I joined the Spinners and Weavers club up here. It is a 4 minute drive from where we are living but there are no lessons and more spinning than weaving but early days. We've only been up here 2 weeks and are in a rented hose while we look around, and also recover from our awful sale. I've had enough of houses for a bit!

I should also officially resign, I suppose, so I just did!

Good luck to you all and I hope the future is rosy foor you all. stay healthy and safe.

Love to you all

G. Dobson

Look on the photo page!!!!

2009-09-03T20:52:00.004+01:00

Yes, go HERE

New Year for the Tawe

2009-09-02T12:34:00.008+01:00

At yesterday's AGM new officers were elected. Check the list on the right to update your diaries.

Ann Fox will take over part of the secretary's job and liase with Nell.

Gill moves from Treasurer to Vice - Chair, thanks Gill for keeping the books and I'm sure Michelle will be grateful for your input this year as she finds her feet as our new treasurer.

We welcome a number of old friends back to the committee:

Marj (library)
Isabel Heard (Dye Queen and Ace sock knitter),
Clare (last years Vice -Chair),
Eirian (working on the recycling theme for this years All Welsh)
Carol (once upon atime Treasurer and ready for anything)
Liz ( back in action and holder of the passes for Owain Glyndwr Fest at the Ancient Briton!)

And me Debb Reid as Chair (Again).

Thanks for a great year its been hectic and we've grown as a guild in more ways than one,
literally in numbers,( welcome to the lovely newbies) and physically having taken on and more than doubled our floor space. Who'd have thought it, a studio and giant store, how did we get it all in the guild room before! We've spun all over the county and beyond and I have a feeling Nell has a plan for us underground! We've met new bods and welcomed back old friends, and some of you travelling miles too! We waved off a long standing member to Australia (can you see us Gill D, we were just talking about you Tuesday gone.) Tawe Guild came up trumps with the items from their Chairman's Challenge, with marvellous pieces produced for several watery themed exhibitions and we've spun miles of yarn with Ann Jordan and literally felted her and now she's about to plinth!! It's been brill, all fluff and a considerable ammount of nonsense.

And this year I can't wait!

Before anything elseThe blog needs some love and attention so hang on in there and I'll sort out the new details as soon as I can. All contact details remain the same.

LOVE YOU ALL, the Tawe Guild is nowt without it's members see you soon.

PS First Committee Meeting Friday18th Sept 2009 7pm

Liz can you bring passes for Owian Glyndwr to the meeting, there are only three freebies (SAT and SUN 19th /20th September be set up before 10am) so we will have to liase carefully or there'll be an entry fee to pay! PS we are stall V5 with a table and hanging for display, thanks for organizing that back in March Liz, there's prepared boyo, mind you don't miss it, it's a great family weekend, especially if you have a weakness for men who "knit" their own chainmail!!

Bank Holiday Monday at Cefn Coed Museum

2009-08-26T22:37:00.003+01:00

For all of those of you who are coming to support this event:
Time 09.30 - although museum opens at 09.00 - until 16.00
Date: Monday 31st August
Place: Cefn Coed Colliery Museum NPT - the School room!

Cefn Coed Colliery Museum
Neath Road Crynant Neath South Wales SA10 8SN
Tel:
+44 (0)1639 750 556

Bring your wheels and what ever else you fancy doing on the day. Do I feel the need for some extreme spinning coming on.... oh I think so!
Plenty of tea and coffee available.

See you there!

Nell

AGM

2009-08-23T20:24:00.001+01:00

The AGM will be held on Tuesday 1st September at 14.00 at the Cross.
The decision for the ealry date was made at the last AGM so we could decide on membership and class fees at the start of the term.
We hope to see as many of you there as possible.

Nell

June 20th visit to Richard cancelled!!!!!!!!

2009-06-14T14:23:00.004+01:00

We're not going to see the Llamas :(

I received this today from Richard, sadly cancelling our visit to the llamas.
I have emailed but we still need to pass it on word of mouth, please let anyone know, that you know, then we should be OK.

I am very sorry to do this to you all but - for all sorts of reasons - I would be extremely grateful if next Saturday's visit here by Guild members could be postponed until, say, early September.

Would you, please, contact everyone and let them know.

Perhaps we can, in the near future, discuss another date.

With very best wishes and more apologies,

Richard

Ps If the Cross had let Nell or I know it was closed last week I'd have let you know, sorry for wasted time , petrol etc. I will be very stroppy with them come Tuesday!
Isabel thanks for the worksurface.

Navy Days 2009 Extreme Spinning

2009-05-28T22:29:00.008+01:00

The things I do when I have a wee dram!!

Many thanks to the Bay Divers - Dave and Karl and their many helpers

Nell

Saturday May 9th

2009-05-08T10:59:00.003+01:00

Aberavon shopping centre.
To take part in adult learning week.
Nell and I will be there, flying the Tawe Guild banner and welcome any member of Tawe Guild that can drop by for a spin!
Parking in Civic Office car park.
The Doings are between 10am and 3pm.
Hope to see you.

If not then at least have a look about at home, in the garage or shed as we could do with a few tiles for around he sink in the new store room!!
Nell's Clive will do the honours as far as fitting is concerned and I have tile adhesive/grout. No point digging into funds if recycling works, afterall the paints nearly done, must just say my thanks to all of you who dejunked their paint stores, at no cost to the Tawe Guild fund!!!

see you soon Debb.

The Chairman's Challenge Winner 2009 is.........

2009-05-08T10:46:00.007+01:00

........... decided by an astounding landslide of public votes at our Annual Exhibition at Aberdulais Falls.
And the winner....

..........." Rainbow waterfall" by Marilyn Hilditch and they loved it!!!!

Congratulations to you Marilyn, one of our newest members.

Thanks to everyone who joined in, it was a wonderful exhibition. Love you all!!
Roll on the next challenge!

More Bluefaced Leicester!!

2009-04-30T20:28:00.003+01:00

Andy says our BFL order should be here Tuesday, Yippee and Nell he even found some darker shades too!

Annual Exhibition at ABERDULAIS FALLS

2009-04-30T18:23:00.001+01:00

Setting up tomorrow, opening officially at Sat 11am,
Thanks all who have offered help.

Meet the Llamas at Richards!!

2009-04-30T18:18:00.002+01:00

Date confirmed with Richard,
we are all welcome to meet the llamas and spin outdoors weather permitting,
Meet at Richard's house for 11am on JUNE 20th
If you need the address or postcode for the satnav, eh Michelle, then ring me, Debb

thankyou in advance Richard, I can't wait!

Chairman goes mobile,

2009-04-24T11:42:00.002+01:00

Debb 07963 517202

Text if you can, as sometimes the signal is low ! and the text will catch up with me

Sign up PLEASE!

2009-04-21T09:28:00.002+01:00

Annual exhibition at Aberdulais Falls Nell has the timesheet in the Cross for working out who's doing what and when.

Off to Wonderwool

2009-04-11T08:16:00.003+01:00

Exhibitors etc here

Don't forget we need your Chairman's Challenge ASAP.

In the email today!

2009-04-10T17:24:00.003+01:00

Mayfield Alpacas have alpaca fleece on offer go thee and look at the links page for details!!

Dear Tawe Guild

FIBREFEST is a weekend festival celebrating the best in UK fibre, yarns & textiles taking place at Coldharbour Mill working wool museum in Devon on the 22nd & 23rd August 09. It offers an array of stalls, workshops, seminars, demonstrations, animals & the mill museum itself - there will be something to tickle the fancies of every knitter, spinner, weaver and textile enthusiast.

FIBREFEST would like to offer all GUILD members a discount on advance ticket bookings. We have therefore attached a Guild Ticket Advance Booking Form for members to complete and return if they would like to take advantage of this offer.

If you would like any more information Nell has the attachment on google for you so email taweguild@gmail.com

In the meantime, thank you for your time.

Kind Regards

Juliet

Get a Ravelry Account

2009-04-08T15:37:00.002+01:00

There is a list starting up of people who will offer discount at wonderwool if you have a Ravelry Acct so I thought I'd send the link in case anyone wants to join.

GO Now Ravelry

Michelle Soloman (can usually be found at Tawe Guild on Tuesday eves)

A unique opportunity

2009-04-08T15:33:00.001+01:00

A unique opportunity to take part in a public art project to be located within a bronze age funeral cairn on the top of the Black mountain for the period of one month next April Ann Jordan is looking for spinners and knitters to help create 'cwtch' - a knitted blanket 20ft diameter circular hand knitted blanket made from 12 miles of yarn spun from the fleeces of Welsh mountain sheep.The spinning and knitting is chunky and robust.The work celebrates the history, the environment and the people who live in the locality of the Black mountain.
Nell has already kindly spun the yarn for the site specific performance art work 'Metamorphosis'. Images and the shroud/cocoon willbe exhibited at the Walcott Chapel in Bath during the Bath Finge festival, which supports the music festival in May/June.
Ann can be contacted on 01792 281 or most Tues pm at The Cross.Ever yard and every row counts.Thanks. Ann b.jordan4@ntlworld.com

Ok so it's been awhile!

2009-04-08T14:36:00.006+01:00

Time for a refresh of the blog, must be all the positive vibes in the air!!!

Thanks for all the great things you said about our dyeing day, I enjoyed it so much we'll do it again as soon as we can!!!

We will soon be able to clear our basement studio of 'tut' and put it into a new storage area, YIPPEE!!!!

This has cost an arm and half a leg so if you see Gill hobbling give her a hand! but you are all worth it!

We will need to do a few basic renovations to the space, paint, shelves etc but it looks like a lot of space!!!!

And that reminds me:

Nell warns we will be very tight for lifts to WONDERWOOL.

If you are car-sharing to wonderwool then,

please, please check your lift is sorted out,

its up to you , don't get left behind.

On, NEWS AND STUFF

We had an email from Jane Dean offering courses check her out here

and from The Dyfed Smallholders Association the following:

For our Monthly talk on 13 May 2009 The Dyfed Smallholders Association have a famous guest speaker from the knitting and textile world, the broadcaster, designer and wordsmith Brenda Dayne.

The meeting/talk begins at 7:45pm in the upstairs room of the Gremlin Club in Guildhall Square Carmarthen, opposite W H Smiths. Entry to the meeting is £2 to cover the hire of the hall or £1 to Dyfed Smallholders Association members. It is a social evening as well as the talk and all are welcome. For more information on this event and the Dyfed Smallholders Association please go to www.dyfedsmallholders.org.uk

Brenda Dayne came originally from Portland, Oregon but is now living in West Wales and she will deliver our May talk on the history of textiles in Wales. Brenda has made a huge name for herself in the textile and knitting world and this is evident from sites like cast-on.com where Brenda is the creator of the this knitting podcast. Brenda is obviously inspired by living in South West Wales as one of her designs is calledPembrokeshire Pathways Socks.

Brenda is a standard-bearer for craft and has said, "craft is to shopping what slow food is to restaurants. Buying high-quality things that needn't be replaced over time but instead may be passed on to future generations is not only old-fashioned, it is also worldchanging. Craft is slow retail, slow consumption."

If anyone thought that knitting was old fashioned - how very dare you!Look forward to seeing you at this event.

Regards,John Birtles

And more.....................this time from WelshArtNow

We are pleased to announce the launch of the online version of WelshArtNow the companion to the printed version of the magazine. We would like to thank the many thousands of you worldwide who have expressed an interest in this project. We have received messages of interest from a wide cross-section of society including those in the fields of politics, theatre, media, the arts and science. Thank you for your enthusiastic response! In our first issue artist Paul Matosic asks how green art is in a time of environmental crisis. We feature profiles of artists James Selway and Michael Gustavius Payne. James describes his new life in Spain and how this has influenced his art work. Michael Payne's work deals with the notion of the ‘hero’ and asks what modern meaning we can attach to the term. These are short articles, that we hope you will find interesting, to read them visit www.welshartnow.org

Martin Allman Editor

And also.....................................from Ravelry

UK Ravelry Day

www.britishyarn.org.uk

Saturday 6 June 2009

UK Ravelry day will be held on Saturday 6 June 2009 at the Central Hall, Coventry. It promises to be an exciting day and will include a market (outside building in the Bull Yard square), demonstrations, workshops, talks. The event is being headlined by Meg Swansen, daughter of Elizabeth Zimmermann. Other well known teachers include Jared Flood (Brooklyn Tweed), Ruth Paisley (Woolly Wormhead), Elizabeth Lovick & Debbie Bamford (Mulberry Dyer). There will also be collections for charities such as Knit in Gambia (baby clothes and shawls for older people) which is run by a Raveller and Liverpool NHS (knitted breasts which are used to teach new mothers how to breastfeed).

The theme of this year’s event is British yarn. Says organiser Jo Watson: “Last year I was growing increasingly interested in finding out why it is that a lot of the yarns I use are made abroad. We have over 60 different breeds of native sheep in the UK and although quite a lot of our wool is coarse and suitable for carpets, a good proportion could be used to make handknitting yarns. It is shocking that farmers have to burn fleeces. After reading some information on the British Wool Marketing Board’s website about how much wool is exported each year, I decided that I would try and do something on a small scale to support British sheep farmers during these tough economic times, by increading demand for British-made handknitting wools. It’s amazing how everyone who’s having a stall in the marketplace has risen to the challenge of sourcing British wool from British sheep.”

She continues: “I had an idea in the car at the beginning of January about how great it would be if Ravelry could sort of come into being for a day. So I could meet all the people I’ve met virtually on the forums, where we could all do in person what we do on Ravelry. I think Ravelry is the best contribution of the world of knitting there has been in recent times. “

Another theme of this year’s event is to support the United Nations International Year of Natural Fibres (www.naturalfibres2009.org). UK Ravelry day is the only non-academic event being held in the UK this year which has received accreditation from the United Nations.

The event is being sponsored by the new high quality UK knitting magazine, the Knitter.

The event is being organised as a not for profit day, with any leftover funds being donated to UK-based knitting charities as well as going towards next year’s week-long event. UK Ravelry Week 2010 will be held in Stirling, Scotland, during the first week of August 2010 and will include workshops by well known designers and excursions, and will end with UK Ravelry day on 7 August 2010. Details of next year’s event will be announced in June.

Stalls at UK Ravelry day (as of 15 March 2009) for list email debb as list is enormous!

Workshops at UK Ravelry day (correct as of 15 March 2009) timetable can be found at: http://www.britishyarn.org.uk/workshops.html

And from me , if you didn't get you newsletter, then email taweguild@gmail.com and we'll try again!

More to say soon and more photos too.

February workshop and other events

2009-02-08T17:29:00.002Z

Warping with Norma Saturday 28th February

This is just to remind you to keep this date in your diary for the next workshop. More nearer the time. Remember to let us know if you are attending!

Women - centre stage.
We have been invited to demonstrate at the Dylan Thomas Centre on Friday March 6th at 19.00. Bring your wheels, looms or drop spindles. We'll rock the place as per usual!

International Women's Day
We have been asked to demonstrate at the Pontardawe Arts Centre on Sunday 8th March

More details to follow but keep the dates in your diary

I am off for a couple of weeks so don't panic if I don't reply to messages immediately- I need my wee holiday!!

Nell

Saturday workshop 24th January 2009

2009-01-18T20:58:00.002Z

Just a reminder that next Saturday is the plying workshop. Bring loads of singles with you ready for the day, something for the communal lunch and a ready ear for my practicing of the "Address to a Haggis" Don't say that you haven't been warned!
Nell

NEWS FLASH!!!!!

2008-12-19T13:52:00.002Z

TAWE GUILD LUNCH approx £16

Saturday 20th December 12 noon

Remo's

Aberavon Beach Front

Port Talbot

See you there, members don't forget to pick up your ' Christmas Box' !!!!!

Calendar for 2009

2008-11-02T18:05:00.002Z

Hear ye! Hear ye!
The following Saturday workshops are planned for 2009
November 22nd 2008
Knotty Knick Knacks with Tony Colbourn from Mumbles Navy Days fame!
December 2008
Christmas lunch
January 24th 2009
Plying techniques with Liz Day from the Brecon Guild
February 28th 2009
Warping with Norma Thomas
March 28th 2009
Felt Jewellry with Lynda Cash
Places are limited so book and pay early to confrim your place
April 25th 2009
A day out at Wonderwool Wales

ANNUAL EXHIBITION
2 - 5 May 2009 at Aberdulais Falls

May 23 - 25 2009
Navy Days at Mumbles, general spin on the Saturday at the event
June 27th 2009
Fimo buttons with Chris and Debbs
July 25th 2009
Spin on the beach at Aberavon
August 10 - 15 2009
Exhibition at the Cross
September
Owain Glydwr Festival
September 26 OR Oct 3rd 2009
Llanidloes trip to the All Wales event

At the AGM it was decided to hold our AGM in early September. Date to be decided

Newsflash From the Assn W,S & Ds.

2008-10-17T22:43:00.002+01:00

On behalf of the Association I would be grateful f you would bring
your members attention to the forthcoming Spring Workshops 2009, an
advert for which will appear in the December issue of the Journal.

Please send any queries direct to Margaret Parker at
convenor@wsdworkshops.org.uk.

Thank you for your co-operation.

Mary Carbert

Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers

Spring Workshop 2009

www.wsdworkshops.org.uk

For a number of years the Association has run residential spring workshops. On a trial basis in 2009 these are being offered on an online basis. The Online Guild has been conducting workshops like this for over 6 years and is drawing on its resources and expertise to present workshops in this new manner.

All students are welcome whether members of a Guild or not and whatever their level of expertise. Access and familiarity with email and the internet is essential. Students will have to provide all their own materials but there will be no other charge.

Three parallel workshops will be offered

Gutter Dyeing with Jane Deane
Peruvian Pickup with Sylvia Glenister
Spinning Designer Yarns with Tricia Weatherston and Barbara Scott

each running from Thursday 16 April to Thursday 30 April.

At the start of the period each tutor will upload the first lesson via a new website, www.wsdworkshops.org.uk. Students may then download and print off the material in order to work at their own pace. They are welcome to email comments and queries to the tutor via this website and replies will be sent in a similar manner. Photos of work in progress and completed items can similarly be uploaded. As the workshop progresses further lessons will be uploaded by the tutors.

Whilst the Online Guild has run workshops like this very successfully for its own members, offering them on an open basis is very much a trial both in terms of the number of possible students and technical and other issues involved. Please be understanding if things do not run as smoothly as everyone hopes they will. In particular all posts will be moderated before publication and if volumes become high some selection process may be invoked.

It is not expected that any specialist equipment or materials will be required. All should be available from your “stash” or easily obtainable in your locality. Kit lists will appear approximately 2 weeks before the workshops.

Further detailed instruction regarding the use of emails and photos will be published on the website approximately 2 weeks before the start of the workshops.

Any immediate queries please contact Margaret Parker on convenor@wsdworkshops.org.uk

Newsletter Read all about it!!!!!

2008-09-18T11:29:00.002+01:00

Click here for latest news!! Updated

Tuesday 23rd Sept Preview Evening at the Grand Swansea!!!!!!

Newsflash From the Assn W,S & Ds.

2008-09-06T12:43:00.004+01:00

Please remind your members that bookings can be sent anytime but allocation of places will not take place untill the end of January 2009.

Many thanks.

Judith Penneck

Gill is nowww broadband enabled!!!!

2008-08-31T16:15:00.002+01:00

Welcome Gill, hopefully we will have the treasurer writing reports online very soon!

Go Gill ,

Debb

Taster Day at the Cross

2008-08-28T19:47:00.002+01:00

Our taster day is Tuesday 2nd September, 10.00 - 16.00 and 18.30 - 20.30. If any of the team can come along and support, we need you there. We have a few interested people that we have met on our travels over the summer (??)
Sadly, our blue haven has fallen off its perch, literally, in the high winds at Brecon. It did do the rounds though..

See you all on Tuesday

Nell

Tawe Guild Exhibition

2008-08-11T23:55:00.004+01:00

What an opening night! The Mayor and Mrs Malcolm Gunther, kindly opened our exhibition tonight and showed great interest in our skills and work. Marjorie even gave the Mayor a spinning lesson!

Thank you Debb for organising us all - Eirean, Clare, Marjorie, Isabel, Gill and Nell - and for the wonderful nibbles. We must also thank Michael, James and Hannah for being SO helpful and polite to all our guests.

Yes, we even managed to persuade Norma to attend and to recieve some flowers to say such a huge thank you from us all, for all her dedication to the Guild. We would not be able to put on such a wonderful exhibition without her teaching and sharing of her boundless knowledge.

The "A" team!

Cath Bowen

2008-07-29T22:42:00.004+01:00

The terrible news about Ben and Cath's deaths affected all who knew them. Cath was member of the Guild since 2007, she attended the evening classes with her mum, Ray.
Our thoughts and prayers go to both families.
A terrible tragedy.....
Nell

Important paperwork!!!!!

2008-07-25T19:14:00.003+01:00

Tawe Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers

Exhibition submissions

Each piece of work MUST be labelled with the following:

1.Exhibitor’s name

2.EITHER -
NFS not for sale
FSG for sale 100% to the Guild
FSM For sale 10% to the Guild
3.Price
4.Information about the work ie 100% hand spun Jacob’s fleece,
modular knit, rainbow dyed
5.All items now must have washing instructions – Trading Standards
6.All items now must have a list of contents ie 100% Suffolk fleece – Trading Standards

I’ll bring some tags ready for all to use so that ALL work is labelled.

Thanks Nell

Its for EWE- Phoney sheep

2008-07-25T19:06:00.002+01:00

Go on answer the call! Its not ewesful but its very funny!

More here

Tawe Guild Newsletter, July 2008

2008-07-21T10:30:00.000+01:00

It’s the summer holidays again. Or is it?? Well the sun shone on those of us who braved the seaweed and jellyfish and went for the full immersion at Oxwich! What a lovely day that was.

We have had a lovely thank you letter from the organisers of the Carer’s Day in Aberavon. Our efforts were greatly appreciated. The spinning day at the Neath Civic Centre generated a tremendous interest in what we are trying to do as a Guild and we have been asked to exhibit at Aberddulais Falls as a result. The Community Farm in Swansea have also benefited from our skills and we hope to build on this community link to reach others interested in learning to spin or weave.

We have a very full itinerary over the next few months and I have listed the events below.

26 July 08 – Tawe Guild workshop. Please bring with you knitting needles and equivalent yarn. You will also need the same gauge yarn but in a variety of colours. Ie size 9’s or 10’s for double knit. Pencil and paper, stitch holders, rubber bands. Clare will be demonstrating her Aztec pouch technique. Isabel is going to show us how to do provisional cast ons and Eirean will demonstrate domino knitting. This would also be an ideal time to leave your exhibition goodies at the Cross!

11 – 20 August 08 – Start of the Guild Exhibition at the Cross. Get dressed in your posh frocks ladies, the Mayor and Mrs Malcolm Gunter, will be opening the exhibition at 19.00. All donations for the wine and canapés gratefully received. Please co-ordinate with Nell. All exhibition pieces must be accompanied by the correct paperwork which will be available on 26 July. Debbs has asked if as many silk scarves from the workshop can be brought in as they looked absolutely stunning.

23 – 25 August 08 – Brecon Mountain Centre demonstrating in our new blue haven of yarn. I will do Saturday and Monday – being the keeper of the gazebo – and will set up and take down on those days. Debbs will there on Sunday. Bring your wheels and enjoy spinning in the open air. We always have a good time there!

23 – 25 August 08. As a result of spinning in the Neath Civic Centre, we have been asked to provide an exhibition at Aberddulais Falls (National Trust) If members would rather go there to demonstrate, then let myself or Debbs know. I will demonstrate on the Sunday and Debbs will set up and take down on the Monday.

2 September 08 - Taster day on Tuesday between 10.00 – 20.30. This is our opportunity to attract new members and keep the Guild vibrant.

9 September 08 – Classes begin again YIPPEE!!

20 September 08 – Owain Glyndwr Festival at the Ancient Briton pub. Costumes desirable – I am dreading this bit – me and fluffy bits do not go together!!

22 September – 4 October 08 Exhibition at the Swansea Grand Theatre. If everything has been labelled for the Cross, no need to panic, the same paperwork will do for the Grand. All exhibition pieces to Nell by the end of August please. 27 September is the sponsored spinathon! We shall have to spin our giblets out to reach 5 miles, but WE CAN DO IT!! Several local Magistrates and Health Service Managers have offered to adjudicate on the day to satisfy our sponsors.

25 October - AGM

New calendars are here – Isabel will be taking orders!

Tuesday working parties. The Guild needs you to make items for sale to raise money to pay for the rent. It has been suggested that Tuesdays across the summer could be utilised for this purpose. We need items that cost little to make but can also sold for between £2.50 and £10. 10% of all sales goes into the Guild funds. Every little helps or so the saying goes! Bring in your odds and ends which you think could be used by the Guild, to the Saturday workshop on the 27^th July. Some ideas: Christmas card toppers, fabric bags, ball ends of interesting yarns and fabric lengths

Everyone is expected to come and “do their bit” on Saturday 27^th September at the sponsored spin. I shall be distributing sponsor forms shortly. If we can raise a decent sum of money, this will affect everyone’s financial contribution to the Guild next year, possibly leading to a reduction in the class fees. This all depends on every Guild member, to support this event, and the others over the summer. We have achieved so much as a Guild: we have learned so many new skills, we are in the community promoting the aims of the Guild, we have generated so much interest in what we do, we have encouraged new membership and we have made some great friends. WE ARE WORTH IT!!

I look forward to seeing you all.

Nell

01792 830106 mobile 07977 538086

What do we do at the seaside!

2008-07-10T13:50:00.002+01:00

Hi Debb et al

Attached are some photos taken today at the "end of term paddle"at Oxwich Bay .Perhaps you would like to put some on the blog to show the super day we had. Weather perfect, food scrummy, sea warm etc. Throughly enjoyed by the stalwart five who went.

Isabel

End of Term - Oxwich Bay!!!!!

2008-06-27T10:19:00.000+01:00

Next Tuesday 1st July!!!

Oxwich Bay Hotel- meet at 12(noon), choose your own bar meal etc.
Chance to catch up, gossip etc.Hopefully Liz will make it!!
Then we go for a paddle! Oh and maybe coffee and cake to warm up again!!

Please RiNG Isabel if you're coming, by Monday night,as we need to book table space if there are lots of us!
Isabel 01792 232349.

love to you all

Debb

Jun 28th Weaving without a loom - on a ring box card or pegs

2008-06-18T11:19:00.004+01:00

Weekend Workshop 28th June, at the Cross, 10am til 4pm,

a few places still available let Nell know you're coming

or email taweguild@gmail.com.

Can't do the whole day then consider just doing half!!

You know you're worth it!

Welcome welcome welcome

2008-06-18T10:17:00.002+01:00

Visitors to last nights class included Gwen and her mum Bev, we met at the Carer's Day and young Gwen is showing a remarkable talent and enthusiasm for spinning!! Hope they join us for the September Classes.
And Ann Jordon came along too, you may have seen part of the work for for her fine arts degree if you remember this from Swansea 2004.
Ann is now studying for her masters degree and would like to spin as part of her studies.

Ann is taking part in the MA show Contemporary Dialogues

on 27th June. Ann invites all Tawe Guild who are interested.

Postings from our TaweGuild email!

2008-06-14T17:45:00.000+01:00

Good morning,

I came across the details of the Tawe Guild from the website of the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers and I wondered whether your members would be interested in purchasing any raw Alpaca fibre for spinning.

We are a family run alpaca farm, based on the ridge of the Usk and Wye valleys in South Wales. We have a lovely herd of about 30 quality alpacas, who produce an annual crop of wonderful fibre that some of your members may be interested in. Glenda spins herself, but we have some great quality fibre available for sale, at very reasonable prices.

We sell prime saddle fibre for £4 per 100g (best quality) and slightly coarser saddle fibre for £3 per 100g (good quality). We can also supply alpaca fibre for felting at £10 per kg (second quality). All prices are inclusive of vat, but P&P is extra.

We have a range of colours available, from white through fawns and browns to black.

You can see our some of our alpacas by visiting us online at www.AmazingAlpacas.co.uk

Please feel free to Email or telephone us 01291 650655 to discuss what we have available.

Kind regards.

Peter

Peter & Glenda Stoneman email; Amazingalpacas@aol.com

Also

Hi Tawe Guild,

We are sheep farmers in the North Tyne Valley with a flock of pure bred Bluefaced Leicesters. We have been approached a couple of times recently by spinners enquiring if we sell our fleeces. I was wondered if any of your members would be interested in purchasing fleeces from us. We are just starting out and testing the water and thought that instead of just bundling it all off to the wool board we would try and sell some ourselves this year.

We would be grateful for any tips or feedback you can offer,

Regards

Lesley Archer email: archers@lowcarryhouse.fsnet.co.uk

Carer's Day

2008-06-14T17:44:00.000+01:00

A wonderful day organised by Sue Stephens and crew!

I'm sure everyone had a great day, as there were lots of smiley people there. Lots of advice stalls, but also the Port Talbot Horticultural Group and some jewellery makers and a pyrographer!

A male voice ensemble, some local soloists and who could forget the line-dancers. A cracking lunch too. Thank you all and well done.

From a Guild point of view, quite a lot of interest and almost as much when I sat on the Aberavon Promenade afterwards to spin in the sun!! Not bad at all!

Is anyone able to do Carer's Day at Aberavon???

2008-06-11T10:38:00.005+01:00

If you can, ring Debb 01639 813472 or email debb.sillymoo@gmail.com

It was tremendous fun last year, and I don't need you to do the whole thing, a couple of hours would be fine and buffet lunch will be provided!
Why not just bring your wheel and spin in happy company!!

See you. Debb

From Norma!!

2008-06-11T10:35:00.001+01:00

Hi folks

Guess who called into Craig-y-nos country park today. You’ve guessed it. Missy Flaherty. Looking really well. Standing a lot straighter. Using a walking stick. Her leg still goes dead, but hopefully that will ease with the swelling.

Liz asked if we’re doing the usual to Oxwich or somewhere at the end of term. When we decide she wants to know.

Ta Ta Norma.

Carers Week event on Friday 13th June 2008 Aberavon Beach Hotel

2008-06-11T10:33:00.000+01:00

Dear All,

Writing to confirm the arrangements for Carers Week event on Friday 13th June 2008 and to thank you for agreeing to take part..

The event will run from 11.00am - 3.00pm at the Aberavon Beach Hotel and therefore workshops/display holders will need to attend by approx. 10.30am to set up. Buffet lunch will be provided.

Please could you arrange your own risk assessments for the event.

Looking forward to seeing you there, however if there is any further information you require, please let me know.

My contact telephone number is 01792 860015.

Kind Regards,

Sue Stephens,
Community Learning Plan Coordinator,
Community Development & Projects Section,
Tel. 01792 860015

Glamorgan Guild Exhibition

2008-06-08T12:07:00.002+01:00

The Glamorgan Guild have invited us to view their exhibition on 14 - 22 July 2008, at Oakdale, St. Fagans

Nell

Association Grand Draw

2008-05-30T14:24:00.003+01:00

I am now in recipt of raffle tickets for this draw which is due to take place during the Association Exhibition on Friday 22nd August 2008. Loadsa goodies to drool over!

Tickets cost £1 each and will be on sale in the Cross classroom. Monies to Gill please

Nell

Melanie Venes workshop

2008-05-30T14:04:00.002+01:00

This 2 day design workshop has been arranged by the Ceredigion Guild and is open from the 1st June to other guilds to book places.
Cost: £50
Location: village hall Llanwrda
Dates: 20 - 21 September
Contact details: Alice Evans email: spinweave55@hotmail.com
I have phone numbers if required.

Nell

http://www.thetextiledirectory.com/Listings/Venes,-Melanie/

Liz is recovering well

2008-05-29T18:34:00.002+01:00

Liz had her op on Tuesday and is making steady progress. We all wish her a speedy recovery. I am sure that spinning can be a new treatment in the physio department!
Get well soon my friend!

New dates for Tasterdays Coming Soon!

2008-05-27T21:41:00.001+01:00

Dates of Sept 2008 Tasterdays will be announced soon!

Extreme Spinning Launches at Navy Days -Mumbles 2008

2008-05-27T17:36:00.004+01:00

Well the Tawe Guild are at it again!

We've launched Extreme Spinning!

Heard of Extreme Ironing, we aim to DO it with OUR wheels !!!!!!

Hip and Happenin' that's the Tawe Guild!

Extreme Spinning

2008-05-26T21:07:00.002+01:00

What a weekend at the Navy Days... Between the weather and the start of a new craft - extreme spinning!! I was NOT on sloe rum today. I have no excuse. It just seemd like a good idea at the time.

I know it's not panto-time yet, but can you see yourself here!

2008-05-21T18:28:00.003+01:00

If you need a pick me up, have a look the Seattle Weavers Guild!
You spend too much time on the 'net I hear you say!
Well, I don't watch the soaps, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it,

Sunday 27th July. Craig-y-nos

2008-05-20T12:36:00.000+01:00

Hello There Everyone

Here at cyncp we're having a day "picnic in the park" or "teddybears picnic" on Sunday 27^th July. Is the Guild available to come and do some stuff with the kids. We have a bit of money in the pot to pay (how much is the minimum). The event runs from 10am to 3pm ish. Ageliki (our warden) thinks maybe some simple felt, spindle spinning, etc.

Also on as part of the day is:-

willow weaving – 2 sessions 10-12noon and 1-3pm.

Wood-turning (all day)

Kids activities on will include scarecrow workshop 10.30 to12 noon, parachute games and teddy bears picnic 10.30 to 12 noon, jig-saw farm animals 1pm-2.30pm and animal masks 1pm-2.30

It's an open invite to the Guild or an individual member if the Guild is unavailable.

See you Tuesday.

Ta Ta,

Norma

Newsletter May 2008

2008-05-18T13:40:00.004+01:00

News News News News News News

Check it out here

Chris !

2008-05-12T18:33:00.001+01:00

Chris look in the links for Pinwheel Jacket Pattern!

The sun shone and the birds sang and the spinning was grand!

2008-05-11T09:31:00.005+01:00

So what was that Haven of Spinning-goodness, nonsense about, well here it is!
Another season of spinning begins, the gazebo is up and we're on for more "spinning in public"

Full of all manner of woolly goodness to show the kinds of things we do and a few things to sell too. And the banner goes in a treat, oh I do love it, when it's summer-time again.

The sun shone all day and we had loads of visitors to the tent with almost every man fascinated by the wheels!

Nell thanks Norma for hosting our spinning day, especially for the Tea-service!

And the best part of the day was when people said they had heard about us and were glad to meet us in person!
At the end of the day I was tired, slightly burnt round the edges from the sun but very happy. Actually I felt like this! Cos We've got an Idea Brewin'

Nell's mascot.

Tawe Guild in National Spinning Week.

2008-05-07T11:30:00.003+01:00

As part of our celebrations of NSD week Liz will be up at Crag-y-nos park,
on Wednesday 7th May, to spin between 1pm and 4pm ish.
Pop along and join her in the park! Need help finding it look here
or ring Liz or I.

Nell, Debb and the blue Haven of Spinning-goodness,(our Gazebo)
will be at Crag-y-nos park, On Saturday the 10th May as early as we can!
For all day Spinning!!!! Pop along and bring your wheel, possible lunch etc.

The Tawe Guild of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers, - Home Page

Chairman's Challenge

Campaign for Wool

Christmas Exhibition

Christmas Exhibition

notice of a change of venue

A new arrival

Chairman's Challenge 2011

Heather takes on Blogger

AN INVITE FOR THE GUILD

Welsh Guilds

Nell does it again!

Dye Tuesday!!!

Aberdulais Exhibition

Congratulations Ann Jordan

New Season of Spinning in Public!!!!

Need a wheel!!!

March Newsletter National AssN

THE ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF

WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS

NEWSLETTER NO 51 March 2010

From the Chairman

Assn news and Chairman's Report

Andrew Johnson,s Workshop March 13th

And so they made warp and spun!!!

Spinning Workshop 13th Feb 2010.

Date Shift

Merry Christmas

Committee meeting 4th Dec -CANCELLED

Assn. Newsletter

THE ASSOCIATION OF GUILDS OF

WEAVERS, SPINNERS AND DYERS

NEWSLETTER NO 50 November 2009

From the Chairman

14th November Dyeing workshop ( Isabel - Dyeing to match socks etc)

This is interesting!

Muriel Clement - soon at the Mission

Fun Friday Felting!

From Gill (VC)

Committee mins.

Saturday workshop 10th October - Planning a joint banner workshop

All Wales

Colin had a clear out!!!

All Wales

Newsletter Sept 09

And on behalf of the treasurer - Fees Due 09/10 - ASAP

Ann on the plinth!!

From Australia!!!!

Look on the photo page!!!!

New Year for the Tawe

Bank Holiday Monday at Cefn Coed Museum

AGM

June 20th visit to Richard cancelled!!!!!!!!

Navy Days 2009 Extreme Spinning

Saturday May 9th

The Chairman's Challenge Winner 2009 is.........

More Bluefaced Leicester!!

Annual Exhibition at ABERDULAIS FALLS

Meet the Llamas at Richards!!

Chairman goes mobile,

Sign up PLEASE!

Off to Wonderwool

In the email today!

Get a Ravelry Account

A unique opportunity

Ok so it's been awhile!

February workshop and other events

Saturday workshop 24th January 2009

NEWS FLASH!!!!!

Calendar for 2009

Sponsored spin

Newsflash From the Assn W,S & Ds.

Sponsored spin Saturday 27th Sept

Newsletter Read all about it!!!!!

Newsflash From the Assn W,S & Ds.

Gill is nowww broadband enabled!!!!

Taster Day at the Cross

Tawe Guild Exhibition

Cath Bowen

Sponsored Spin!!!!!