Canalside Craft and Chat Welcomes New Needlecrafters at Saddleworth Museum

A needlecraft circle that has stitched together friendships for more than two decades is throwing open its work-basket every Tuesday at Saddleworth Museum in Uppermill. The 20-plus members of Canalside Craft and Chat—recently renamed to reflect the social side of sewing, quilting, knitting and crocheting—say beginners and veterans alike are welcome to pull up a chair between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

“I’d always been interested in sewing and this was a chance to take up a new hobby,” said Joan Wood, who joined after a friend invited her. “Since I’ve joined I’ve learned how to make baby quilts. My next project is to make a full size quilt. It’s a really friendly group and everyone is so helpful, sharing tips and ideas. We also have lots of fun and laughs.”

Louise Parker-Backhouse picked up a leaflet at the museum before she had even moved to Saddleworth in 2025. “I’m learning how to embroider and have already stitched a Paddington Bear for my grandson,” she said. “I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to try something new and meet lovely, supportive people.”

Co-organisers Pat Sykes and Julia Greene emphasise that no experience is required. “It’s a wonderful community of crafters,” they said. “Whether you’re a beginner wanting to dip your toes in, someone who’d like to try new crafts, or a long-time needlecrafter, we’d love to meet you.”

Founded by seven quilters led by Sue Warburton, the group now meets morning and afternoon, offers access to sewing machines, tools and a crafting library, and organises an annual outing to a major needlework show. Interested stitchers can simply drop in, email [email protected] or phone 07973 690817.

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