Inspired by Gainsborough
A Special Textile Workshop with Dorothy & Bruce Ronaldson
Available spots
Service Description
Inspired by Gainsborough: A Textiles & Art Workshop A Textile Workshop with Bruce and Dorothy Ronaldson Date: Wednesday 1 April 2026 Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM Price: £65 per person Join Dorothy and Bruce Ronaldson for a vibrant and enjoyable creative day celebrating one of Suffolk’s most beloved and internationally renowned artists. This engaging workshop brings together art history, textile exploration, and hands-on making, all inspired by the sumptuous fabrics and exquisite details found in Thomas Gainsborough’s portraits. Morning Session · Gainsborough in Focus The day begins with a richly illustrated presentation led by Bruce Ronaldson, exploring both Gainsborough’s most celebrated paintings and some of his lesser-known gems. Key themes include: Gainsborough’s distinctive compositional techniques His beautifully observed local landscapes, often glimpsed behind the sitters The refinement and sensitivity of his portraiture His expressive, fluid brushwork used to depict sumptuous textiles and fashion This close look at fabric, embellishment and costume in his work provides the creative springboard for the afternoon. Afternoon Session · Textile Collage Workshop In the hands-on session led by Dorothy Ronaldson, you will create a richly textured textile collage inspired by 18th-century fashion motifs. Think silk taffeta, satin, brocade, fine lace, braids, net, ribbons, bows, gathers, beads—all interpreted through stitch and layered materials. A selection of beautiful resources will be provided, including Sudbury silk, vintage lace and an array of decorative threads and trims. You can choose to: Work on net in a hoop, building up details organically, or Create an initial collage base that you can further embellish with stitch. All stages will be demonstrated, including: Couching · French knots · Bullion knots · Blanket stitch · Coral stitch · Gathering stitches Suitable for all levels—from enthusiastic beginners to experienced stitchers—and designed to be inspiring, relaxed and great fun. Refreshments: Tea, coffee, cakes, and biscuits will be provided. Please bring a packed lunch. Access: Please note this workshop is held in the upper gallery, which is not accessible for wheelchair users. We apologise for any inconvenience. Spaces are limited, so 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