Exploring Sudbury Silk
Textile Art Workshop with Dorothy Ronaldson.
Available spots
Service Description
Exploring Sudbury Silk: A Textile Workshop with Dorothy Ronaldson Date: Tuesday 28th April 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Location: Mill Tye Gallery and Arts Centre, Great Cornard, Sudbury Step into the rich textile history of Sudbury, famed for centuries as the heart of Britain’s silk weaving tradition. In this immersive, hands-on workshop, textile artist Dorothy Ronaldson will guide you through a day of discovery and creativity, celebrating the beauty and versatility of Sudbury silk. Using exquisite fabrics and hand embroidery techniques, you will learn how to: - Pleat and gather shimmering taffeta - Manipulate fabric to sculpt texture and form - Stitch-weave into intricate jacquard designs - Embellish woven patterns with embroidery and beading - Explore decorative finishes, including picot edging Through guided demonstrations and inspiring examples, you’ll experiment with small sections of silk and other fine fabrics, building them into a personal textile composition—one that reflects your own creativity, colour sensibilities, and love of cloth. All materials are provided, including an array of Sudbury silks (taffeta, jacquard, Oxford and pocket weaves), muslin, organdie, specialty threads, beads, wire, ribbons, and braid. Participants are welcome to bring along their own silks, threads, and embellishments if desired. Please bring: - Sharp fabric and thread scissors - A small selection of hand embroidery needles (milliners, medium and small crewel, including one suitable for beading) - Any personal silk pieces or embellishments you’d like to incorporate (optional) This workshop is designed for those with some prior stitching experience who wish to deepen their skills, explore seasonal colour, and work with one of Britain’s most treasured textiles. You will leave with a unique piece and a wealth of ideas to carry forward. Additional details: Refreshments: Tea, coffee, and autumnal treats will be served. Please bring a packed lunch to enjoy beside the river or in the gallery. What to wear: Comfortable clothing or an apron (some light painting included). Access: Please note this workshop is held in the upper gallery, which is not wheelchair accessible. We apologise for any inconvenience. Places are limited—advance booking is essential.
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy Course Bookings: • Places on our courses are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis upon receipt of payment. • Submitting an application form without payment does not reserve a place on the course. • To guarantee a place, all applicants must pay in full after submitting their form. Refunds and Cancellations: • Cancellations up to 7 days before the course start date: Participants may cancel and receive a refund, subject to a £25 cancellation fee. • Cancellations within 72 hours of the course start date: Refunds will not be issued. • Non-attendance: No refunds will be provided for students who do not attend due to illness, personal commitments, or professional obligations. Course Changes or Cancellations by Mill Tye Gallery: • Mill Tye Gallery reserves the right to cancel or amend courses due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, participants will be offered an alternative date or a full refund. Access: • Workshops take place in the upper gallery, which is not wheelchair accessible. • If you have any physical disabilities or special learning needs, please notify us in advance by emailing milltye@icloud.com or calling 01787 376796, and we will do our best to accommodate you. Safety: • Prohibited items: Aerosol fixative sprays, smoking, mobile phones, radios, and personal stereos are not permitted during workshops. • Personal belongings: Participants are responsible for their belongings at all times. The gallery cannot accept liability for loss or damage to personal items. • Participants must take all work and belongings with them at the end of the class. Disclaimer: • The information in this policy is accurate at the time of publication. Mill Tye Gallery reserves the right to update or amend these terms as needed. For any questions or issues, please contact us at milltye@icloud.com or call 01787 376796
Contact Details
Cornard Mills, Mill Tye, Great Cornard, Sudbury CO10 0GW, UK
+ 01787 376796
milltye@icloud.com