News from around the Clubs

I'm glad to report that YTFG is doing very well just now. Our newest Clubs at Lismore District and Grafton are very well attended and thriving. 2 city Clubs have experienced a downtown though, with Southern Suburbs closing and Leader Lesley Hack becoming a Commmittee Member. Guildford Club has been put into recess till next year, as I feel I need a break and my numbers have dropped dramatically this year. The kids left won't miss out though, they are looking at the next closest Club with a view to joining in their meetings.

Grafton club recently hosted tutor Wendy Fuller for a workshop of printing fabric backgrounds. Corrie was very impressed with Wendy's enthusiasm and organisation for the day.This was reflected in the work produced and the kids' willingness to stitch between meetings on their fabric pieces. Below is an example of the finished fabric background printed with various leaf shapes ready for stitching.



North District Club held a mini-exhibition at the retirement village where Club meetings are held. There were many favourable comments from the residents and lots of infomation sheets handed out on the day. Diana and Peggy are hoping some new Members will join as a result of the display.

The YTFG is being well represented at the Sydney craft shows too. The Embroiderers' Guild attended Craftfest in March, the Sydney Royal Easter Show in March and the Darling Harbour Craft and Quilt Fair in June. At each show a lot of information was displayed including photo boards of the "Fun with Stitches" course and various workshops held in the last year or so. Many questions were answered and visitors were very impressed with the standard of work, and the fact that children are still able to learn to stitch even if embroidery and sewing are no longer offered at school.

Our Royal Easter Show workshop started slowly with only one student pre-booked. However by the end of the day 13 kits had been sold and stitched up with much enthusiasm from kids and helpers. The flashing LED light in the Celestial Lights kits was a great attraction, as were the colourful samples of kids work and the PR information posters. The PR kit is a great way to mount a display, with colourful laminated sheets of photos and information which only need to have kids work added to make a great themed mini-exhibition. 2 kits are available to borrow, just contact Headquarters.

Next year our Group turns 15, and there are some great plans in the pipeline for a big celebration. We'd be glad to hear any other ideas from members and leaders to help make this a really special year for the kids.

Christine, acting convenor YTFG