The Fabric of Protest online

Many of us find ourselves with more time to devote to hobbies, crafts and creative projects and since the rise of the sewing bee more of us have been inspired to pick up a needle. The Fabric of Protest aims to bring that community of sewers, crafters and beginners together to learn, talk and sew around the topics in the People’s History Museum’s collection. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have been sewing for years, these monthly meetups are a perfect way to learn a new skill, try out a different technique or discover the role sewn protest materials have played in our social history.

create textile responses to the topics discussed

Each month a different artist will take a topic from the museum’s collection and use it to demonstrate a particular technique, whilst holding a discussion among the sewers about the theme. You’re welcome to attend and work on your own projects whilst listening and watching as well as turning your camera on and getting involved in the discussion.

In January’s session, artist Helen Mather will be exploring the theme of migration and textiles. Through the catalyst of the 2020 – 2021 Banner Exhibition at PHM, Helen will facilitate a discussion on the context of banners in the collection that have been fighting unjust immigration laws since the 80s. You’ll then create textile responses to the topics discussed. Exactly how you respond is left open so that you can fully embrace the topic with your own creativity, however, help is on hand should you need a bit of guidance.

Spaces for the Fabric of Protest are limited, so be sure to sign up before the session. You will receive a Zoom invitation via email and hour before it starts. Check out the future dates on their website to see the topics being discussed in upcoming months.

Sessions are suitable for children aged 11 and older but please note that under 18s must have an accompanying adult present during session.