The Patterns of Migration project collaboration with academics from MIDEX (the Centre for Migration, Diaspora, and Exile) at the University of Central Lancashire focused on the emotional significance of textiles, the links to memories and the stories that textiles can tell.

Focusing on the textiles that we keep, value and that become treasured heirlooms, it is the epitome of a slow fashion project. 

In the Patterns of Migration: Repair, Refuge and Renewal workshops for women refugees and asylum seekers, we taught participants textiles skills that they can use for self-expression and relaxation as well as practical skills for employment and independence.

Participants learned to use the sewing machines, making bags and pillows inspired by pieces in the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection using recycled fabrics.

This project was supported by Super Slow Way and Lancashire County Council's Refugee Women Grant Scheme. Activities were partly delivered by Community Arts by ZK with artist Aysha Yilmaz #ayshayilmaz1.