Last month, I popped into the Framework Knitter’s Museum on Chapel Street, where their strong team of volunteers were very busy preparing for the year ahead. Like most people lucky enough to live in Ruddington, I’ve had a nosey around the museum and attended a few events over the year. However, during my visit, it struck me the museum has so much more to offer us … including warm hands!
So, in this edition of “Meet the…”, we’re going off-piste a little and presenting to you three of my favourite items that their lovely shop, The Textile Emporium, has to offer. The shop, which is free to access, stocks unique accessories and thoughtful handcrafted gifts from local makers and creatives.
One of my absolute favourite items in their shop are the gloves. We have some cold months ahead of us and these unique, colourful, warming knits will brighten up a grey day. Mary Hopkins has machine-knitted and hand-finished the gloves onsite, and there are plenty to choose from. We think this is a great way to support our museum whilst giving a nod (or a wave) to the industry that helped shape our village. Gloves cost £11 to £15 a pair.
I also love this little adorable wool-blend rabbit made by artist and technical demonstrator, Helen Brownett. So beautifully crafted on-site, each rabbit is unique and costs £12.50.
Helen knows the museum’s Griswold circular knitting machines better than anyone and is readily available to show you how to knit your own souvenir. I’m not sure you can really call yourself a local until you’ve had a go!
Finally, we think this hand-stitched brooch from Molly’s Mum would make a great gift. This would instantly brighten up a dark winter coat or jazz up a plain jumper, for just £4.50. So if you need a last-minute gift for someone, why not pop into The Textile Emporium for something truly thoughtful and unique?
As the colder months are now upon us, you may want to complete your visit to the shop with a cuppa in the traditional little café, which is also free to access. However, the museum reopened on Friday 1st February, so why not buy a ticket and have a proper look around? If you love craft, food, gardens and history…you’re in for a big treat!
Sarah Godfrey