Lilacbarn Craft Courses

Craft Course Tutors

Cherry Dobson

I started teaching Upholstery in Colchester 20 years ago for the Adult Education Centre. At any one time I had up to 100 students on my books at several different centres in the area.

While tutoring in Colchester I attended an Advanced City and Guilds Course at the Guildhall University London gaining a Distinction. I have always worked on private commissions myself, and so have considerable hands-on experience in the craft.Courses include both traditional and modern methods of upholstery. Canework is also taught

Courses: Upholstery, Loose Covers and Patchwork

Pennie Elfick

In 1996 I gained a BA(Hons) Fine Art from the John Cass Faculty of Fine Art, London Guildhall University. Whilst there I studied painting, drawing and printmaking. In 2000 I gained an MA Painting from Wimbledon School of Art, SW19. I am a practising artist and I exhibit regularly in Somerset and London, I have work in public collections and I undertake commissions.

I believe that oil painting is one of the most demanding and exciting mediums. It is also flexible, forgiving and immensely rewarding and anyone who is really serious about learning to paint should investigate it. My intention is to create an environment where all students feel comfortable and therefore able to gain in confidence, leading to a sense of artistic achievement.

Dawn Cameron-Dick

Dawn has been quilting for 36years and teaching for 25 years. She is a very traditional quilter so you will be more likeky to find her quilts on beds rather than walls.

Her signature technique Invisible Machine Quilting (IMA) allows you to produce hand looking applique completely on your machine without the use of bonding products or satin stitch. It must be seen to be believed!

That being said Dawn also offers workshops in hand and machine quilting, hand applique, machine trapunto and several project classes where you make specific quilts of your choice.

Dawns classes are known for being encouraging,informative and whats more fun!

For more info check her website www.morningstarquilts.com

Courses Patchwork and Quilting

Helen Izzard

My love of textiles, design & intricate handwork developed from a very young age. Having gained a wide experience from a variety of local sources, including Interior Designers & a leading UK Bridal Designer, I now work for a Design Company in Dulverton, who create soft furnishings for top Interior Designers in London, Oxford, Bath & Bristol.

I also work on private commissions in soft furnishings & interior design, as well as my other passion, Bridal Design.