Frome & District Branch of Embroiderers’ Guild have had some varied and interesting meetings, covering both hand and machine embroidery and mixed media techniques as well.

In June Annette Emms came again to tutor a workshop, this time showing us several ways of transferring images to fabric. T-shirt transfer paper was only one of the methods; one involved laser printed images, emulsion paint and patience (waiting for the paint to dry thoroughly). The pictures were then incorporated into embroideries. Our July meeting was an open day with a mini exhibition and taste sessions. We will be doing this again in 2016 – at the same time as we have an exhibition A String of Pearls at the Round Tower during Frome Festival. August was more of a DIY day when some of us even learned new stitches

In September we met a week later than usual so members could enter the Frome Show – and earn a few prizes – and joined the Young Embroiderers when we had Tiggy Rawlings teaching us to make Kantha Durjani Bags. This was within the capabilities of all of us, young and old so we had a good day.

The Young Embroiderers is open to youngsters between seven and 16 – phone their leader on 01225 764691 for more information. Our AGM took place in the morning of the October meeting and in the afternoon Ros Liddington came with a selection of her hats and gave us an interesting and amusing talk during which she had us modelling some of them. November’s tutor was Lorna Bateman showing us how to embroider Mystical Dragonflies and other interesting Insects. This was hand embroidery at its best – Lorna is a superb needlewoman and excellent tutor.

The Christmas meeting in December was once again a joint meeting with the Young Embroiderers. The Committee entertained everyone with a Murder Mystery, written by a Guild member from Marlborough. Only one group identified the murderer but everyone enjoyed trying. We finished the meeting with a bring-and-share buffet lunch.

Which brings us to the new year. In January we had a preparation day for exhibitions. Members are taking part this year in an exhibition at Radstock Museum running from this week until May 29 and our own 30th Anniversary Exhibition at the Round Tower from July 5-23.

The next meeting is on Saturday, February 13and will be an Inspiration Day led by Pam Cooper with fabric postcards in mind. We meet at Christchurch Hall, Park Road, Frome from 10am to 3.30pm. For further information phone D. Mackley on 01373 830612.