GUIDE TO APRIL
2 April ALNMOUTH WOOL FESTIVAL
Hindmarsh Hall, Alnmouth, Northumberland
Run by Sheep Tales, a wool-based group in Northumberland, this event has members who are wool producers and dyers as well as artisans who work with wool to make products and art using various different techniques. Stalls sell fibres and yarns, plus locally handmade items, as well as demonstrate spinning and weaving. Pop over to the Sheep Tales heritage exhibition too.
Free entry. For more details, visit www.sheeptales.org
9-10 April
SPRING INTO WOOL
The Grammar School at Leeds, Harrogate Road, Leeds LS17 8GS
Having been cancelled in 2021, this year’s weekend festival promises to be the best yet. With more than 90 exhibitors and loads of free parking, you can go along for a day or buy a ticket for the whole weekend. There’s also a packed programme of workshops (make sure you book in advance), from needle felting and brioche knitting to tapestry weaving and more.
Tickets from £5 each. For more details, visit www.springintowool.co.uk, or call Nick on 07741 452295
23 April
NATURAL AND SUSTAINABLE YARN DYEING
Taigh Anns A’Choille, Drumnadrochit, Inverness IV63 6TS
This is a one-day workshop with Dwynwen at Loch Ness Knitting exploring the techniques of natural dyeing. You’ll forage for sustainable materials in the local Loch Ness woodlands. Lunch and all dyeing materials included. Suitable for all levels from beginners to those more familiar with yarn dyeing.
Price £85. For more details, www.craftcourses.com/courses/natural-andsustainable-yarn-dyeing
23-24 April
WONDERWOOL WALES
Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys LD2 3SY
Celebrating the green credentials of Welsh wool, this buzzing show will take you on a voyage of discovery through the entire process from sheep and fleece to dyeing and creating yarns, textile art, stalls and exhibitors too.
Tickets £TBC. For more details, visit www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk
30 April
YORKSHIRE YARN FEST
Online
With a packed programme of exhibitors, you can join this regular festival online via Instagram and check in with the vendors. See what these yarn producers and creatives have to offer and indulge yourself in a spot of retail therapy from the comfort of your armchair.
For more details, visit www.yorkshireyarnfest.com
The events above are still planned to go ahead as SK goes to print.