St Fagen's National Museum of Wales

It was an absolute joy to visit St Fagan's National Museum of Welsh history just outside Cardiff this month. 

On a beautiful spring day two groups of us were fascinated by textile curator Elen Philips’s inspiring thoughtful guide to some of the special stitched items in the Museum’s collections.  She even took us around the stores and introduced us to a group of embroiderers working on a hanging for the Tudor Merchant’s House, re-erected along with many other buildings from all over Wales.  Elen also introduced us to the concept of museology - a relatively new study of how to present museum items in a variety of thought-provoking ways.

The newly extended and revamped galleries invited participation by visitors and I especially enjoyed the Gweithdy a new building celebrating making in many materials including stitch quilting and clothing. 

A wonderfully rich and inspiring day!

​Report by Clare R

St Fagen's Castle, gardens & relocated houses

Esgair Moel Woollen Mill - moved to present location in 1950's.   The current spinner and weaver did his apprenticeship in the mill 30 years ago and now maintains all the equipment and makes woven materials which are sold in the shop. 

1725 Silk damask dress hand embroidered with silver threads.  Owned by Lady Rachel Morgan of Tredegar House.   This dress is currently on display for all visitors to enjoy.

Below is a selection of items shown to us by textile curator, Elen Phillips

Photos thanks to Clare R, Vernice C & Ellen S.