It's amazing what you find on your doorstep!

Last week I paid a visit to The Wemyss School of Needlework. It's beautiful. 

photograph courtesy of Wemyss School of Needlework

Now run by Fiona Wemyss, the school was originally founded in Wemyss Castle in 1877 by Dora Wemyss, and then moved to its present purpose built home in 1880, on the Main Street of Coaltown of Wemyss. Care of the school has been passed down through the Wemyss family and the School's seamstresses until Mary Birrell (the great grand-daughter of the first mistress, Mrs Webster), retired in 2012.

photograph courtesy of Wemyss School of Needlework

Whether you are a complete beginner, an aspiring embroiderer, or extremely accomplished in the craft, you will find the school fascinating. The building is now a light and airy space in which intricate works from across the years sit side by side with lovely old bits of furniture. Carefully scribed old ledgers document past works and purchases - It was interesting to note that wools purchased in the early 1940's were nearly all either white or navy; clearly destined for the serving armed forces.

photograph courtesy of Wemyss School of Needlework

The school also houses an important and unique collection of textiles and artefacts, including original designs, tracings and paintings, source materials and pieces collected from around the world. 

photograph courtesy of Wemyss School of Needlework

The school supplies bespoke pieces of work for you to sew from their large collection of designs, or they will design something especially for you. You can also buy quality needlework materials, including canvas, Appleton's Wool, needles, sundries and books.

photograph courtesy of Wemyss School of Needlework

The school is open to visit on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10-5. Groups of up 20 are welcome by pre-arrangment (and there is a charge of £2.50/head for groups). You can also purchase online. 

Fiona Wemyss is also planning needlework classes of up to 10 people at a time, and for all levels, later in the year - an ideal opportunity to work with experts and to learn the skills and techniques passed down through the ages.

So, if you are interested in textiles and wondering what to do with a decidedly chilly Easter break, why not stop by. The heritage of this area is vast and well worth exploring and sometimes we don't even appreciate what's right on our own doorstep!

And of course, within easy walking distance of West Wemyss - continue down the path at the side of the school, through The Wemyss Estate and you will arrive in West Wemyss at the Church end of the village - you should probably stop by the West Wemyss Walk Inn for some delicious food and a good hot drink!

info@wemyssneedlework.co.uk        01592 651 346