In addition to our regular programme of events as members of Stitch Colour Cloth we also have opportunities for one off events, such as the visit to AllanbankMill Steading on Sunday 1st June 2025. The following was contributed by our member Jill Simpson with photographs by programme secretary Caron Ironside
Allanbank Mill Steading is the home of Pauline Burbidge and Charlie Poulsen. Their home is a beautiful set of converted farm buildings. They have made not only a home but also a number of studios in which to create and exhibit their work. The wonderful garden they have created not only provides Pauline with inspiration for her work which mostly comes from the natural environment but vegetables also.
Pauline has been a quilt maker by profession since the 1970’s. She works with textiles, collage, fabric crayons, dyes and stitching. Charlie makes large scale drawings and sculptures using lead, trees, concrete and disused machinery.
After an introduction in their large and interesting kitchen, they gave us a tour of the various studios and work spaces. Pauline has many pieces exhibited in museums in the UK and USA. In particular The International Quilt Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska.
A recent major project Pauline has worked on was for the Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford. The resulting quilt is a white and black cotton fabric with fabric crayon and stitching, depicting animals and crafts from the past. Pauline discussed her thoughts and processes which went into creating an amazing piece.
It was a really interesting visit and we came away enthused. Thank you Caron for organising a great day.
