What's On
Upcoming Events
Our venue at Northlight in Brierfield has a dedicated studio space where we can run workshops, study visits, talks and more.
Here you'll see a preview of our upcoming events and you can always find the full list of available events and book tickets by
visiting our Eventbrite page using the button below.
The best way to stay up to date with our event announcements is to follow us on Eventbrite,
join our mailing list or follow our social media accounts.
BTB25 Talk: Innovations in 19th and 20th Century Textiles
To coincide with this year's British Textile Biennial themes of Invention and Innovation this talk by Gawthorpe Textiles Collection Curator Rachel Midgley will explore textiles created using innovations that shaped the textile industry and fashions from the early 19th century through to the mid 20th century. We’ll discuss advances in technology such as the Bobbinet, Jacquard, Leavers and Cornely machines, new processes for dyeing and printing and the development of some key synthetic fibres. The talk will feature items of costume, embroidery, lace, patchwork and more from the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection.
After the talk guests will divide into two groups - one will visit the collection store for a behind the scenes tour whilst the other group will have the chance to look at a small selection of items relevant to the talk in detail. The two groups will then swap over so each group gets to do both.
Saturday 11th October 2025, 10:30am - 12:30pm
BTB25 Study Day: Innovations in 19th Century Textiles
The British Textile Biennial explores invention and innovation in textile production and this in-person study day will take you on a journey through the textiles of the 19th century - a period when amazing innovations in technology and science shaped the way textiles were designed and made.
We will be studying original antique textiles from the collection produced using innovations such as roller printing, jacqaurd weaving, aniline dyeing and machine made lace. The study visit will be guided by our Curator who will talk you though the items, pointing out design and construction details not to be missed and answering questions throughout the day.
This is a fantastic opportunity to spend time with some textiles that are not normally on display, learn something new and meet other people who share an interest in textiles and crafts.
Saturday 25th October 2025, 10am - 3:30pm
Online Talk: Arts & Crafts Movement Textiles
In this presentation we will showcase textiles that embody the iconic style of the Arts and Crafts Movement. The selection of printed, woven and embroidered textiles will include pieces associated with some of the movement's most well known figures like William Morris, C. F. A Voysey and Thomas Wardle, as well as less widely recognised figures such as Lewis Foreman Day and Grace Christie. We'll be looking at the items in detail to appreciate the skills, materials and techniques used in their creation, as well as discussing the influences that inspired their design.
Tuesday 4th November 2025, 7pm
Workshop: Goldwork Embroidery Angel with Annie Lancaster
Learn this beautiful method of embroidery with textile artist Annie Lancaster. https://raggedyannie.art/
We'll begin the session by looking at some of the stunning examples of goldwork embroidery held in the Gawthorpe Textiles Collection Archive and then learn more about the techniques and materials used in this specialised and ancient form of needlework. You will then use your new skills to create a beautiful Goldwork Angel – just right for Christmas. You will be amazed at the results of your new found technical ability.
This session is suitable for both beginners and those with more experience. You will be supported by the expert tuition of Annie, who is a well-regarded West Yorkshire based textile artist.
Saturday 15th November 2025, 10am - 4pm
Workshop: Lino Cutting & Printing with Julia Swarbrick
Join us for the opportunity to learn the basics of Lino cutting and printing in this one-day workshop led by artist Julia Swarbrick.
In this workshop you'll learn how to plan and cut a design into a Lino block and then use this to print with. You will be encouraged to come up with your own design - something festive would be perfect for printing your own cards or gift tags for Christmas, although you do not need to to choose a festive design if you would prefer not to.
The workshop is beginner friendly and all materials and equipment will be supplied on the day.
Saturday 22nd November 2025, 10am - 4pm
