NaviStitch and Sail Loft News
- Sam Luxford
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
The Sail Loft Gallery is about to step fully into spring mode, with the Spring Exhibition opening this week and the gallery filling with fresh work from a wonderful group of artists and makers.
Alongside that, there are also a few new workshop announcements and creative plans taking shape - so here’s a little update ...
🌸 Spring Exhibition
📅 14 March-11 April🥂 Preview Evening: Friday 13 March, 5-8pm
The Sail Loft Gallery will soon be transformed for the Spring Exhibition, bringing together a vibrant mix of artists - some familiar faces returning to exhibit with us again, alongside several new names making their first appearance in the gallery.
We’ll be opening the exhibition with a Preview Evening tomorrow, Friday 13 March, from 5–8pm, and everyone is very welcome to come along, enjoy the first look at the exhibition and meet some of the artists behind the work.
The Spring Exhibition is always one of the most uplifting points in the gallery calendar - fresh work, new creative voices and a lovely sense of seasonal change. Over the coming weeks I’ll also be introducing each of the artists individually so you can discover the people behind the work.
The gallery will be open Wednesday–Saturday, 10am-4pm throughout the exhibition.
🧵 A New Workshop: Sew a Sailing Boat
I’ve just added a brand new workshop to the schedule - and it feels like quite a big step for me:
📅 Sunday 26 April, 10am
💷 £20
👥 1–8 guests
This two-hour workshop is designed as a gentle introduction to paper embroidery - but it also shares something quite special, as participants will learn how to stitch a NaviStitch-style sailing boat.
In many ways it’s the first time I’ve shared the technique behind the work that started NaviStitch, which feels both exciting and slightly brave! But, I’m very much in the mindset of sharing skills and encouraging creativity wherever possible.
🌿 Spring Workshops – April & May
There are also a few updates to the workshop calendar.
The original Botanical workshop sold out very quickly, so I’ve added a new date:
📅 Sunday 10 May, 10am
💷 £50
There are still places available on the following sessions:
📅 Friday 24 April, 10am
💷 £50
📅 Wednesday 29 April, 10am
💷 £50
All workshops take place in our Sail Loft Gallery in Manningtree and include all materials, with small group sizes (maximum 8 people) to keep the sessions relaxed and friendly.
💐 A Thought for Mother’s Day
If you’re still looking for a Mother’s Day gift, why not give the gift of creativity?
A workshop can make a lovely experience to share - or a thoughtful treat for someone who enjoys making things. (And of course, there’s nothing wrong with dropping a hint for yourself too!)
The booking system also offers gift vouchers, so you can give someone the opportunity to choose the workshop that suits them best.
And don't forget the NaviStitch shop is full of gift ideas and cards too!
🖼 Framing, Commissions & Inspiration
Exhibitions often spark ideas - whether that’s discovering a piece that feels right for your home, or remembering artwork you already own that deserves the right frame.
Bespoke framing remains an important part of what I offer at NaviStitch, and I’m always happy to advise.
Commissions are also where this whole journey began - translating places, memories and personal stories into stitched pieces. If you have an idea you’d like to explore, I’d be delighted to hear from you.
💌 Thank You
Thank you, as always, for continuing to visit, follow and support NaviStitch. The Spring Exhibition has brought a wonderful sense of movement and fresh energy into the gallery, and it’s been lovely to see people discovering the work.
If you haven’t visited yet, I hope to see you soon.
Calm waters and plain sailing,
Sam
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