The wonderful world of fabric

Here at Ministry we are always on the look out for new and inspiring websites/blogs that relate to all things creative and crafty. That's why I'm here to share True Up with you, a website dedicated to the wonderful world of fabric.

If like us you are addicted to Project Runway, then check out Part one and Part two of True up's interview with Jay McCarroll, the winner of Project Runway, Season one. It's the perfect opportunity to be nosy and find out what he has been up to since the show. He has created a beautiful range of fabrics and what is especially interesting, goes on to explain his inspiration behind each print.

Calling all vintage clothing lovers

I couldn't help but feel excited by a feature in today's Observer about 'Girl's own getaways'. Some of those didn't tick any boxes (surfing, snowboarding and horse riding have been 'try anything once' experiences for me!)

But having a guided tour of Parisian vintage shops as well as a Vintage masterclass on what to buy and where from ... now you're talking.

Ooolala.com can provide advice and a personal boutique, designed around your size, likes and choosen eras, champagne afternoon teas, the best of Parisian shopping and tours in a Citroen 2CV. That's a get away to remember! SS

Screen stars

Screen printing seems to be as popular as ever and we at Ministry of Craft are partial to a few glides of the squeegee ourselves! That's why I wanted to share this great article form UK Handmade, which profiles screen printing by looking at its history, talking to experts about their work and displaying some fantastic images that are sure to inspire. After having a read if you want to get in on the act then why not join us for our next Screen stars: Introduction to screen printing course.

Sew Hip hip hooray

A bit of a treat to see our Beginners sewing: Vintage style apron and tea towels course featured in the 'News' section of March's SEW HIP magazine.  It's a great read for anyone who wants to try out new and varied projects with detailed instructions and patterns included. One of our firm favourites for inspiration, ideas and techniques.

Pattern design & beyond

In a nod to our Design your own fabric: lino cut pattern printing course this Saturday here is a little helping of inspiration. Check out the Pattern People blog for some of the latest fashion collections, which host some printastic pieces! For those of you who fancy taking your printing hobby a little more seriously and considering it for a career or just want to find out more, a great new e book has been released to tell you just how to do it. Pattern Design & Beyond from Pattern People features the work of our very own Ministry of Craft tutor Holly Lawton, and promises to be crammed full of fantastic tips, inspiration and industry know how. Enjoy!

Rachael Elwell - The Capacity of Line

We can't get enough of those lovely people at Indie Quarter, especially as they have just posted a feature about our super talented tutor, Rachael Elwell. Rachael is currently doing a residency at Touchstones Gallery in Rochdale, which is also hosting her first UK solo exhibition called The Capacity of Line. Ministry of Crafter's may know Rachael for her knitting and crochet skills, but this is your chance to find out more about her practice as a fine artist and feast your eyes on some of her stunning work. Rachael has been charting her time as artist in residence here.

 

Indie Quarter feature

The lovely people at the Indie Quarter blog have just done a great feature on our up and coming, Design your own fabric - Lino cut pattern printing course. It's a brand new feature to this course programme and offers a fantastic combination of technical skills and creative crafting, which will see you walk away with a set of 6 cards, calico bag and cotton teatowel all printed with your own personal designs and the know how to create the perfect fabric for any future projects. If you would like to join us, just visit the Ministry of Craft website to book your place. Hope to see you there!

Be sure to check out all the latest happenings in arts, crafts, fashion and culture at Indie Quarter, which is guaranteed to inspire, inform and get the creative juices flowing!