Dorset Button Brooch
Would you like to try your hand at making a Dorset button brooch? Let Jane walk you through the process. Choose between making a tree or a bunch of flowers.
Dorset buttons are handmade buttons that were first made in Dorset and their manufacture was at a peak between 1622 and 1850, after which they were overtaken by machine-made buttons from factories.
In the Edwardian period, renewed interest in traditional crafts led Lady Lees to attempt to revive the industry but this was frustrated by the outbreak of the First World War. Luckily, the art of the buttoner did not completely die out. The technique has been passed from generation to generation of knitters and stitchers. Nowadays it is also recognised as part of the local heritage of Dorset. In 2017, the Heritage Crafts Association included button making as one of their list of endangered heritage crafts. However, due to workshops like this passing on the craft, it is no longer on the endangered list.
What will we cover?
You will learn the techniques to make a Dorset button
How will I be taught?
Our friendly tutor Jane will take you though the process to make a Dorset button in our light and airy studio
Do I need any previous experience or skills?
Suitable for beginners
Are materials provided? Is there anything I need to source myself?
All materials are provided
What will I take home with me?
You will take home a brooch made from a Dorset button in a choice of either a tree or bunch of flowers design.
Refreshments
Drinks and biscuits will be available
Photography
During all of our workshops photographs are taken for promotional purposes only. Please make us aware at the time of booking if you would prefer not to be included.
Tutor
Jane is a lifelong crafter. Among other things, she’s tried her hand at stained glass, jewellery making, woodwork and is an enthusiastic crocheter. She has always enjoyed sewing since she was a child but about 10 years ago she found a passion for patchwork and quilting. Jane has completed a City & Guilds Certificate and then a Diploma in Design and craft and was nominated for a C& G Award for her Art Quilts. Some of Jane’s work is inspired by her previous career as a midwife. As well as Art Quilting Jane enjoys the creative freedom and process of making improv quilts. She discovered the joy of improv while making a quilt for her Mum’s birthday, and now she’s hooked! Jane lives in Brighton with her husband, youngest daughter and lots of animals including a Shih Tzu called Freddie, and a lovely little flock of Bantam Hens.
