Woolschools, a series of imaginative, creative workshops introduced by Wonderwool Wales, have been a highly popular feature of this fabulous, award-winning show ever since it was launched 15 years ago. Read on to find out more about the event and how to WIN free tickets for 2020!
The vibrant showcase of wool and natural fibres is held annually at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells and attracts fibre enthusiasts from all over the UK and abroad, an achievement that has won it the award for best event in Mid Wales in the inaugural Mid Wales Tourism Awards.
Lydia Needle: buff-tailed bumblebee
Next year’s show (2020) is over the weekend of April 25-26 and for those keen to learn new skills or brush up their techniques, the Woolschools programme offers a wide choice of topics.
Workshops, led by skilled tutors, take place over both days, with six morning and six afternoon sessions.
“We try to cater for a range of abilities and interests and our workshops book up fast, so if there is something which appeals to you, best not to delay!”Chrissie Menzies, Organiser.
There’s a choice of crochet, knitting and spinning workshops and more:
Needle felters can join Lydia Needle to craft an intricate button or brooch depicting a bee.
Beginners in macramé can have a go at making a wall hanging, using recycled, hand-dyed cotton cord.
There’s a weaving workshop using a selection of hand-spun yarns and the chance to learn Bargello stitching or make a collage using felt and Kantha stitch.
Sharon Carter, Dragon Hill Studio: Tunisian Intarsia Photo
With more than 200 high quality stalls to shop from, Wonderwool Wales is also a great opportunity to stock up on raw products, supplies and luxury hand-made items.
The lively and colourful show provides plenty of inspiration too, with many of the stalls hosting demonstrations and have-a-go sessions.
There will also be special exhibitions and, twice daily, there’s the chance to watch The Sheepwalk (a woolly take on the catwalk).
Liz Beasley: Woven wall hanging
Visitors to the 2020 show will also be able to see and buy work by Wonderwool Wales bursary award-winners Jourdan Williams and Daisy Fay Ray, from the BA Textiles: knit, weave and mixed media course at Carmarthen School of Art, part of Coleg Sir Gậr in Carmarthen.
They each received a £1000 bursary alongside the chance to have a stand at the show.
Take a look at the Woolschools programme here - they book up quickly so be sure to secure your place asap.
Find out more about the 2020 show at www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk
Alison Ellen hat. Photo: Colin Mills
If you fancy going to this event why not head over to our Facebook page to enter our competition to WIN! a pair of tickets to the 2020 show >
*competition closes 27 November 2019
