For me there is nothing quite like to joy of creating, I always have a stitch project or two (or more!!) on the go. But what feeds my soul even more is guiding others to explore and express their own creative voice.
My workshops offer opportunities for individuals to create in a welcoming, inspiring and sociable environment. They provide a respite from the fast-paced world we live in, a chance to slow down and discover the gentle art of slow stitching. Through the teaching of simple techniques, I support individuals to create pieces that have deep personal meaning. Textile works which are not only beautiful, but also tell a story.
To ensure every participant receives the best possible experience classes are kept small with a maximum of 15 participants. All materials, equipment and of course refreshments are provided and included in class costs… because all creative endeavors are improved when fueled with good conversation, a cuppa and a slice of cake!
Seasonal Stitch Walks: Walking, Noticing & Slow Stitching
Join me for the first in what I hope will be a series of slow-stitching workshops throughout 2026, inviting you to slow down, connect with nature and explore your creativity through mindful stitching.
Friday 27th February – 10am – 1pm – Brailsford & Ednaston Institute
Step into the rhythm of the seasons with a gentle countryside walk, followed by a calm and creative slow stitching workshop. An opportunity to pause, notice and connect with the natural world, be inspired and connect with your inner creativity through a calm, supportive creative process.
During our time together, you will:
- Enjoy a gentle, unhurried countryside walk with plenty of pauses
- Take time to notice textures, light and subtle seasonal changes
- Explore guided slow stitching inspired by the season
- Share the experience in a small, supportive group
- Receive all materials, plus a mini Seasonal Stitch Walk Journal to take home
Each session is suitable for all levels of stitching experience, from complete beginners to seasoned stitchers. All materials are provided, and there is no pressure to produce a finished piece. The emphasis is on process rather than outcome, curiosity rather than skill and kindness towards yourself and your making.
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. Thomas Merton
The first session in February is titled “Noticing what is quietly beginning”, capturing the subtle signs of late winter and the first hints of spring, snowdrops, bare branches, moss, and damp earth. This is a space for curiosity, playful experimentation and slow, mindful creativity; stitches can be wonky, loose, layered and experimental. This is a space to slow down, try things out and enjoy stitching as a form of care.
Pricing
Tiered to support accessibility — please choose the rate that works best for you:
- £25 — supported place
- £35 — true cost
- £40 — supports others & future workshops
Book your place by emailing me at laura_burrill@outlook.com
If cost is a barrier, please get in touch — everyone is welcome.
About the venue
Brailsford & Ednaston Institute: Main Rd, Brailsford, Ashbourne DE6 3DA
Free Parking onsite
Future Seasonal Stitch Walk dates (subject to interest):
- 20th March – Spring Equinox: Stitching in Balance with the Season
- 1st May – Beltane: Making in Full Bloom
- 17th July – High Summer: Slow Making in the Fullness of Summer
- 25th September – Autumn Equinox: Grounded Making in a Season of Plenty
- 27th November – Late Autumn: Threading Calm into the Dark
Stitching Ashbourne: A Celebration of Place, People & Stories
Stitching Ashbourne will bring together people of all ages to create a stunning large-scale appliqué and embroidered artwork (approx. 2m x 2m) showcasing Ashbourne’s most iconic landmarks — from St Oswald’s Church to Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, the Gingerbread Café, and the newly refurbished Market Square.
Surrounding this centerpiece will be over 100 hand-stitched squares, each one telling a unique story, memory, or celebration of what Ashbourne means to its people. Whether you’re 6 or 95, this is your chance to stitch your story into Ashbourne’s history. Workshops will be held across Ashbourne throughout October – November, see details below. All workshops are free to attend, please book via the link below or email laura_burrill@outlook.com
Workshops for construction and the central panel will be held at Betty’s Sewing Box in February 2026... more details soon!
PAST WORKSHOPS
- Bunting for Peace: Stitching Wartime Resilience into Celebration
- The Art of Holding Space: A Workshop for Creative Practitioners
- Mindful Moment Flag Making
- Women in Faith Network: Stitching Peace Workshop
- Holocaust Memorial Day 80 Candles Quilt
- An Introduction to Slow Stitching
- Slow Stitching for Beginners
- Meaningful Making for Christmas
Workshop Feedback…
Thank you for making stitching part of my wellbeing again rather than just something I did, and for all the stimulating ideas that you share with so many people.
80 candles Quilt Workshop, 2024
An Introduction to Slow Stitching Course July 2023
Laura did everything to make us feel so welcome. She was there at all times to help us. If we didn’t ask, she could sense when we were struggling with something and immediately came to help. I’m just hoping there will be more workshops in the future.
It was like a mini holiday! A huge thank you Laura. I’m really looking forward to taking this further and attending future workshops.
An Introduction to Slow Stitching Course July 2023
Every Stitch A Story 