FARNBOROUGH WOMEN'S INSTITUTE

We had three visitors at our November meeting. In addition to our usual stall with home produce, was one selling cards for Harris Hospice.

Our new president will be sending round a questionnaire asking us which leisure activities we prefer.

Anita Jones gave a fascinating talk on the origins of patchwork patterns, which was certainly practised during the time of the Crusaders.

Designed and patterns are infinite, varying with the region of the country.

The art travelled to American with the Pilgrim Fathers, in the loneliness of those first settlements, girls would begin patchwork from the age of three, most completing 12 quilts by the age of 21.

Elizabeth Fry used to help keep prisoners occupied by taking them material for patchwork.

The Americans devised many new patterns which they named e.g., log cabin, attic windows, bow tie, honey bee etc.

A simple type of patchwork is practised in India using mostly cut out shapes of animals.

Japan is now very much in the forefront of the art, patterns are continually evolving to become more intricate and sophisticated.

Throughout her talk Mrs Jones passed round her own very beautiful and skilful work which must have inspired many of us to get out our needles.

We meet on the second Tuesday of each month in Farnborough Village Hall at 2pm and enjoy having visitors.

Details from the secretary on 01689 824532.