Spinning Yarns Festival launched at Antrim Castle Gardens

This two-day textile festival celebrates the wonderful world of all things wool & linen, showcasing the colour, creativity and craft associated with these homespun yarns in all their forms.

New to this year’s line-up we are thrilled to have Louise Kelly, doll maker and soft toy designer based in County Londonderry join us for Spinning Yarns. Louise is the author of two books published on the art of doll making and you can often see her on ‘The Sewing Quarter’ craft TV channel.

We are delighted to welcome back guest artists Paula McIntyre MBE and Angeline Murphy, contestant on the Great British Sewing Bee 2016. Paula, renowned chef, author and broadcaster, will be demonstrating recipes with the festival theme and Angeline, fashion designer, tutor, blogger and presenter will be looking at the topical theme of sustainability and reuse of textiles. 

Find out how crafting can improve both your mental and physical well-being. We are introducing the opportunity for you to try out mindful knitting and crochet with Joanne Lee and her team of mindful crafters from Yarn with Joanne. Along with this, our local Hookery Craft Group will be hosting a drop-in knitting and crochet space where, whether beginner or expert, you will be able to learn something new and expand your skills. 

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Alderman John Smyth, commented at the launch “Spinning Yarns was a great success last year and given that our Borough has a rich textile heritage it is fantastic to see it returning. The award winning Antrim Castle Gardens is the perfect venue to deliver this very special festival.”

Spinning Yarns has so much to offer including a market place with a range of traders, both local and from further afield and crafting workshops and taster opportunities provided by the crafting team from Kathleen’s Attic. In addition, we will have traditional afternoon tea, craft and gift stalls, demonstrations, a range of artisan food & drink and children’s entertainment.

So save the date in your diaries for Spinning Yarns on Saturday 31 August and Sunday 1 September.

For more information and traders details visit spinningyarnsfestival.com