Gathering Stiches Festival is brought to you by Inspiring Yarns CIC in collaboration with Wee Yarn Designs.

Inspiring Yarns CIC operates as a social enterprise which means any profits made from ticket sales are 100% reinvested into our services to provide a community space allowing people to reduce isolation and improve mental health using yarn and textile based crafts. We provide a range of classes and workshops to develop heritage yarn and textile based skills including: weaving, spinning, knitting, crochet, embroidery and sewing. More Information

Designer/maker Debbie McCann created Wee Yarn Designs in 2013 having graduated from University of Ulster in Fashion and Textile Design specialising in Constructed Textiles. Debbie’s hand-crafted accessories exhibit a clear contemporary edge while still acknowledging use of traditional hand-crafted skills. More Information

We have chosen WWT Castle Espie as the venue for our festival because it closely aligns with the ethos of our organisation. WWT Castle Espie is nestled on the shores of Strangford Lough, the reserve is a magical mix of wide estuary views, tidal lagoons, eel-grass mats, salt marshes, reed beds, and woodland. It is a haven for wildlife and the perfect place to enjoy some outdoor time, which is a natural boost to mental health and wellbeing. WWT Castle Espie are whole-heartedly committed to promoting and supporting local arts and heritage skills with an on-site pottery, gallery and exhibitions throughout the year.

Purchase of event tickets includes access to the full site at Castle Espie. More Information on what to expect and site accessibility is available here.

Inspiring Yarns CIC would like to gratefully acknowledge the support of Ards and North Down Borough Council in establishing this event.