Sunday 9th October Alexandra Palace Trip

Alarms clocks were ringing early this Sunday morning. 38 of our ladies were on their way to Allly Pally and the Knitting Stitching Exhibition. The flags were flying when we arrived along with thousands of other knitters and stichers from across the land.

I had never been before so had no idea what to expect. Well in no way was I disappointed - there was something for everyone. So diverse. There was a cheery chappie from African in the Entrance weaving on a foot loom - bare feet with strings between his toes weaving colourful mats/blankets. In the hallway there was the Prestonpans Tapestry - 104 metres of embroidered panels - depicting the journey of Bonnie Prince Charlie from France to Scotland. The World's largest tapestry. Now it is looking for a permanent home! Any offers?

There were rooms on either side of the Hallway - one was full of the Galleries displaying the work of experts in all fields of craft and these were truely unique and so worth looking at. The room on the other side was devoted to the "Guilds" of every craft you can think of. Never knew there were so many and they were all demonstrating their skills. Again fascinating. The question "what shall I do next" popped into my mind?

Now we are in the Main Hall and now we can have a spend!!!! Stalls for every hobby possible and we quilters (although we all do other crafts as well) we well catered for and I think we all managed to fill a bag or two. Some, well I know of two, even bought another bag!

An excellent day was had by all - thank you Pauline, well done, and hope you arrange to go again. A visit to the Learning Curve next time - cos I missed that out (not enough time). It was really refreshing to see so many young people, and the Upcycling Section was something else.