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
Tuesday 5 October 2010
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.
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.
Sunday 3 October 2010
Heather takes on Blogger
Major changes afoot,
Watch this space!
Watch this space!
pictures taken by Bob Grainger www.bobgraingerphotography.com at the Owain Glyndwr Festival
Monday 10 May 2010
Nell does it again!
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.
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.
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
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!!!
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!
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!
Tuesday 27 April 2010
Aberdulais Exhibition
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.
May 15- 16th
Chairman's Challenge plus anything else for exhibition or sale must be at Guild next Tuesday at the latest!
love Debb.
Sunday 4 April 2010
New Season of Spinning in Public!!!!
Bank Holiday Monday at The Cefn Coed Colliery Museum
Map
From 10ish til 4ish why not pop in for an hour.
See you there!
Tuesday 30 March 2010
Need a wheel!!!
Dear Secretaries.
The following information has come to our attention. The bid deadline is 31st 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
------------------------------
Hi
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. The current highest bid for the spinning wheel is £500 on 30th march |  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
Tuesday 16 March 2010
March Newsletter National AssN
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 17th 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 OFWEAVERS, 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 1st 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
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
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
Wednesday 10 March 2010
Andrew Johnson,s Workshop March 13th
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.
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.
Tuesday 9 March 2010
And so they made warp and spun!!!
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.
Friday 12 February 2010
Spinning Workshop 13th Feb 2010.
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
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
Friday 15 January 2010
Date Shift
Warping with Norma, due to the expected continuation of this cold snap, workshop movned to next weekend.
New date will be 23rd Jan.
New date will be 23rd Jan.
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