Event
Textile Fridays Create your own sweetheart pincushion
6th March 2026 - 6th March 2026
Free self led drop-in activity.
During the First and Second World Wars, small pillows or pincushions were made by British soldiers whilst away from home in distant lands, in secret locations, or whilst recuperating in hospital. They were often sent home to wives, sweethearts, mothers, and occasionally close friends; in effect, people who they cared about and cared for.
The cushions, often highly decorated and worked, gave solace and acted as a reminder of an emotional bond. For the maker, they provided a connection with memory, to reflect on relationships both past and present, and a means to express emotion that few could hear.
Often, these cushions were decorated with beads, sequins, bits of mirror, felt, and pre-printed panels using found materials.
A free drop-in self led activity, – stay for 20 minutes or a few hours; come and create!
These sessions are free and are open to all. Activity sheet and limited materials provided.
10am – 2pm: Self led Drop-in activity; stay for as long as you wish.
Please note children must be with an adult at all times.
Activity is in response to Nigel Hurlstone’s ‘The Wind from the Feet of the Dead‘ exhibition at Mission Gallery. Exhibition on until 4th April 2026.
