Friday 4th December 2026
10.30am–4pm
The Little Picture Palace
The Workshop
Join us for a relaxing and inspiring day discovering the traditional craft of weaving, surrounded by the wonderful colours, patterns and textures of The Little Picture Palace.
This hands-on workshop offers an introduction to weaving on tabletop looms, using a beautiful selection of naturally dyed yarns.
Led by Emma and Hilarie, the day is suitable for complete beginners as well as those who would like to return to weaving or develop their textile skills.
We'll begin by exploring the basic principles of weaving, looking at colour, yarns and simple techniques before planning your own design.
Working with our naturally dyed yarns, you'll learn how to create different textures and patterns, experimenting with combinations of fibres and colours.
After lunch, you'll continue developing your weaving, with plenty of individual guidance and opportunities to try new techniques.
By the end of the day, you'll have completed your own woven textile sample to take home.
Sarah will be weaving alongside us!
We're particularly delighted that Sarah will be joining us at the looms for this workshop.
Sarah originally trained as a weaver at the University of Brighton before embarking on a creative career spanning textiles, fashion, illustration, interiors and fine art.
Although her work has taken many different directions, weaving and textiles have remained an important influence on her artistic practice, and she has recently been developing new woven tapestries from her paintings.
Sarah will be bringing along some interesting materials, studio treasures and samples for everyone to explore and experiment with during the day.
It's a wonderful opportunity to weave alongside Sarah, Emma and Hilarie, exchange ideas and talk about our different creative journeys, all in the inspiring surroundings of Sarah's own home and studio.
About Emma and Hilarie
Emma O'Neill trained in Fine Art at the University of Brighton and has worked as an educational practitioner in the heritage and cultural sector for over 15 years.
She has worked with a range of museums and organisations, including Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, the Sussex Archaeological Society and the University of Brighton.
Hilarie Baker trained and worked as a textiles teacher in Brighton and has extensive experience across a variety of textile techniques.
She has led and assisted with numerous creative workshops at Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft and enjoys sharing her knowledge of traditional textile crafts.
Together, Emma and Hilarie bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, creating a supportive and enjoyable environment in which to learn.
No previous weaving experience is required. All materials and equipment will be provided.
Enjoy the Winter Open House too!
As we're holding this workshop during the Winter Artists Open Houses, there will also be an opportunity to explore The Little Picture Palace and meet some of the wonderful artists, designers and makers exhibiting with Sarah this season.
You can discover original artwork, beautiful handmade objects, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and clothing, and perhaps find a few special Christmas presents along the way.
We'll be providing a delicious lunch, refreshments and homemade cake, so you can enjoy a full day of making without having to worry about anything else.
A chance to slow down, experiment with colour and texture, share creative ideas and enjoy the pleasure of making something by hand.
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
Friday 4th December 2026
10.30am–4pm
The Little Picture Palace
The Workshop
Join us for a relaxing and inspiring day discovering the traditional craft of weaving, surrounded by the wonderful colours, patterns and textures of The Little Picture Palace.
This hands-on workshop offers an introduction to weaving on tabletop looms, using a beautiful selection of naturally dyed yarns.
Led by Emma and Hilarie, the day is suitable for complete beginners as well as those who would like to return to weaving or develop their textile skills.
We'll begin by exploring the basic principles of weaving, looking at colour, yarns and simple techniques before planning your own design.
Working with our naturally dyed yarns, you'll learn how to create different textures and patterns, experimenting with combinations of fibres and colours.
After lunch, you'll continue developing your weaving, with plenty of individual guidance and opportunities to try new techniques.
By the end of the day, you'll have completed your own woven textile sample to take home.
Sarah will be weaving alongside us!
We're particularly delighted that Sarah will be joining us at the looms for this workshop.
Sarah originally trained as a weaver at the University of Brighton before embarking on a creative career spanning textiles, fashion, illustration, interiors and fine art.
Although her work has taken many different directions, weaving and textiles have remained an important influence on her artistic practice, and she has recently been developing new woven tapestries from her paintings.
Sarah will be bringing along some interesting materials, studio treasures and samples for everyone to explore and experiment with during the day.
It's a wonderful opportunity to weave alongside Sarah, Emma and Hilarie, exchange ideas and talk about our different creative journeys, all in the inspiring surroundings of Sarah's own home and studio.
About Emma and Hilarie
Emma O'Neill trained in Fine Art at the University of Brighton and has worked as an educational practitioner in the heritage and cultural sector for over 15 years.
She has worked with a range of museums and organisations, including Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft, the Sussex Archaeological Society and the University of Brighton.
Hilarie Baker trained and worked as a textiles teacher in Brighton and has extensive experience across a variety of textile techniques.
She has led and assisted with numerous creative workshops at Ditchling Museum of Art + Craft and enjoys sharing her knowledge of traditional textile crafts.
Together, Emma and Hilarie bring a wealth of experience and enthusiasm, creating a supportive and enjoyable environment in which to learn.
No previous weaving experience is required. All materials and equipment will be provided.
Enjoy the Winter Open House too!
As we're holding this workshop during the Winter Artists Open Houses, there will also be an opportunity to explore The Little Picture Palace and meet some of the wonderful artists, designers and makers exhibiting with Sarah this season.
You can discover original artwork, beautiful handmade objects, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and clothing, and perhaps find a few special Christmas presents along the way.
We'll be providing a delicious lunch, refreshments and homemade cake, so you can enjoy a full day of making without having to worry about anything else.
A chance to slow down, experiment with colour and texture, share creative ideas and enjoy the pleasure of making something by hand.
Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
