What an incredible few months it’s been. Stitching Ashbourne has already brought together more than 140 participants, aged from 6 to over 60, in a joyful celebration of creativity, community and connection. So far, we’ve held eight workshops, each one bursting with colour, ideas and stories. Our venues have been as varied as the people taking part, from church halls and town halls to coffee shops and pubs, each one filled with laughter, conversation and the gentle rhythm of stitching.
The contributions have been incredible. Every square tells its own story, of Ashbourne, of the people who call it home, and of imagination, belonging, gratitude and pride. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Participants have loved having the chance to be creative together, to pause and really look at the town in a positive way, thinking about what makes it so special. Many have said how much they’ve enjoyed learning new skills, trying out different textile techniques, and sharing ideas with others. The central panel is now beginning to take shape too. After two wonderful sessions at Sticky Fingers last week, the artwork is truly starting to come alive, and you can feel the imagination, skill and community spirit woven into every stitch.
And the best part is, it’s not too late to join in. There are still plenty of workshops coming up over the next few weeks, ten in total, offering all sorts of ways to get involved. Whether you prefer a calm, reflective afternoon, a sociable evening with a drink in hand, or a friendly drop-in session with tea and biscuits, there’s something for everyone. A full list can be found below.
As the final stitches come together, we’re already looking ahead to 2026 and the moment we get to share this incredible piece with the whole town. Workshops for construction and assembly of the full artwork will take place at Betty’s Sewing Box in February 2026, with more details coming soon. The Grand Unveiling of our beautiful community artwork will coincide with the reopening of the refurbished Ashbourne Methodist Church in spring, creating a joyful celebration of everything we’ve made together and the stories stitched into every inch.
After that, the artwork will go on tour around Ashbourne, visiting the House of Beer, the Heritage Centre and Ashbourne Library, so even more people can enjoy seeing it and spotting familiar stitches, friends and places woven into the design.
Keep an eye on social media and the Every Stitch A Story blog for updates, and make sure you’ve shared your email address so we can keep you in the loop as plans take shape.
Of course, this project has only been possible because of the kindness and generosity of everyone involved, those who have stitched, supported, volunteered and donated. Every contribution helps. If you’d like to support Stitching Ashbourne and help us keep the workshops going, please visit our Crowdfunder at crowdfunder.co.uk/p/stitching-ashbourne.
Every penny truly makes a difference. £5 helps provide tea, biscuits and that welcoming atmosphere where creativity thrives. £10 covers materials for a workshop participant or an at-home stitching pack. £200 covers the cost of facilitating a full workshop, helping to make sessions accessible and inspiring for everyone. Thank you so much to everyone who’s been part of it so far. Your creativity, kindness and enthusiasm are bringing this project to life, one stitch at a time.
If you haven’t joined in yet, it’s not too late. Here’s what’s coming up…
Calm & Create, Thursday 6th November, 1.30–4pm, Ashbourne Library. A peaceful session for those who enjoy a slower, mindful pace of making. Book here.
Craft & Chat, Monday 10th November, 2–4pm, St Oswald’s Church Hall. A sociable afternoon of stitching and conversation, hosted by the Methodist Craft & Chat Group. Book here.
Sip & Stitch, Thursday 13th November, 6.30–8.30pm, House of Beer. An evening of creativity and connection with a drink in hand. Book here.
QEGS School Workshops, Tuesdays 4th and 18th November. Private workshops giving students the chance to create their own squares inspired by Ashbourne.
Threads of Welcome, Ukrainian & Refugee Community Session, Sunday 16th November, 11am–1pm, Sticky Fingers. A special session for members of the Ukrainian and refugee community to share experiences through stitching. Fully Booked.
Central Panel Sewing Circle, Sunday 16th November, 1.30–3.30pm, Sticky Fingers. Help create the central panel of our large-scale community artwork. Fully Booked.
Drop-off & Stitch Social, Wednesday 19th November, 10.30am–12 noon, Ashbourne Town Hall. A relaxed drop-in to hand in finished squares and catch up over a cuppa. Book here.
Final Stitches, Last Chance to Add Your Square, Wednesday 19th November, 12.30–2pm, Ashbourne Town Hall. Your final opportunity to make your mark. Led by Alice Duckworth. Book here.
Ashbourne U3A Workshop, Friday 21st November. Private workshop for U3A members, adding another chapter to our shared story.
Final Central Panel Sewing Circle, Monday 8th December, 10.30am–2pm, Betty’s Sewing Box. Our last creative session of the year, finishing touches, shared lunch and celebration. Book here.
Every Stitch A Story 