Celebration of textile making will raise funds for Warton church

A week-long celebration and showcase of the rich northern heritage of textile crafts comes to Warton next month.

‘Rug & Quilt Warton, A Festival of the Traditional Crafts of Rug & Quilt Making in the North’ will be at St Oswald’s Church, on Main Street, between July 6 – 12.

This event celebrates all things textiles and will showcase a varied collection of work, old and new, from groups and individuals across the North of England and South of Scotland.

Visitors can expect to see a fabulous display of rugs and quilts in a variety of different styles and themes alongside demonstrations from experienced makers.  There will also be historical information about the crafts and enthusiasts will be there to welcome you.  Some items will be for sale.

Amongst the exhibitors will be collections of work by Lunesdale Ruggers, Ebor Ruggers from York, Lunesdale Quilters and numerous individuals.

Yvonne Milller, organiser of the event, said: ‘’The humble rag rug and patchwork quilt were part of cottage, farm and terraced house interiors in the north. 

‘’Homes were brightened by scraps of fabric fashioned into these cheerful pieces, sometimes put together as a social or family activity and sometimes as a careful work of art.''

St Oswald's Church

‘’These everyday items were usually worn out and thrown away but the tradition lives on in the fascinating pieces that are being made today.

‘’The setting is the beautiful, ancient church of St Oswald’s which is also a hub of the village; your donations will help the maintenance and restoration of this historic building.’’

As part of the celebration, Crook Morris and Westmorland Garland Dancers and two local folk bands will be performing in Warton as part of the festival.

Tea, coffee and cake will be available in the church. 

For more information visit: www.rugandquilt.co.uk