The Staircase Stitchers were set up last year, following an appeal from Staircase House for a team of enthusiastic volunteers to meet and work on pieces of embroidery for display in the house.
Funded by the Heritage Trust they were able to produce cushions and other soft furnishings to suit the different periods of the house. Jane Dew, embroiderer for Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, leads the group and teaches the stitchers historic embroidery techniques, giving advice on embroidery and needlework designs characteristic of periods in the House.
Now, with a further £2,000 donation, the group can continue their work and produce the elaborate curtains that will complete their work on the grand 18th century four poster bed.
Councillor Pam King, Executive Member for Leisure, said: "We are very grateful to both the Stockport Heritage Trust and the Staircase Stitchers for supporting this unique project. The Heritage Trust has been fundamental in raising awareness of Staircase House and its importance to Stockport town centre and I hope that we continue to work together to make Stockport's heritage attractions some of the best in the North West."
Sarah Cotton, Curator of Staircase House added, "This is a fantastic project and we are very grateful that the Heritage Trust recognise the value it adds to the house. The work that is being produced is historically accurate and will introduce additional colour and character into rooms, as well as being a long lasting testimony to the hard work of all the local volunteers."
As part of Staircase House's first birthday celebrations, you can meet the Staircase Stitchers and view their amazing work by visiting the House on Saturday 12th August, 12pm to 5pm.
