The Whitworth in Stitches project was created by Jake and Steph to encourage people to start stitching. The Whitworth has an extensive collection of textiles and, with Manchester’s history as Cottonopolis, we were inspired to look at different forms of stitching with our readers. Here you can read about different textiles from around the world and learn how to stitch some projects inspired by the Whitworth’s collections and gardens yourself, from different types of embroidery to small sewing projects.
Sashiko: Simple Japanese Stitching
Steph looks at the beauty, origins and uses of sashiko; a simple and relaxing form of embroidery created centuries ago in Japan.
Learn how to embroider and sew lavender filled hearts for the home, inspired by a proof for ‘The Baby’s Opera’ created by Walter Crane.
Find out how to create your own pocket-sized star plush in time for the holidays.
Steph gives us a very short history of the needle case and, inspired by one in our collections, which was made by former Whitworth director Margaret Pilkington, she teaches you how to make your own.
Steph’s Spring Clover Sashiko Pattern
Learn how to stitch your very own sashiko clover in time for St Patrick’s Day with this free pattern and tutorial created by Steph, inspired by Walter Crane’s Design for ‘The True Union’ and her grandfather.
Steph’s Summer Rose Sashiko Pattern
In March we learned how to stitch a sashiko clover, inspired by the Whitworth’s collections. This time she has a new sashiko pattern to stitch for summer.
Steph’s Autumn Pumpkin Sashiko Pattern
Gather your sashiko supplies and get ready to start stitching a pumpkin as Halloween approaches.
A Place Between The Trees 