Journeys in Stitches

Embroiderers GuildBrighton Branch

Tricia Tyler

Tricia Tyler was born into a family of dressmakers, quilters,

milliners and embroiderers who sowed the seed of her life-

long fascination with needlework.

For years she made clothes for her children and for herself, but 25

years ago her interest in embroidery re-surfaced and she enrolled at

Eastbourne College of Art & Design to take a two-year City & Guilds

course in embroidery. With a further course in patchwork and quilting,

a total of eight years was spent in study.

Tricia says, “I enjoyed the discovery of embroidery along with others

who were treading the same path. I still love embroidery and fi nd great

peace and tranquillity when I am sewing and creating”.

Tricia draws inspiration from the fascinating world around her and

is ‘catholic’ in her approach. Although familiar with many traditional

techniques, she is keen to experiment further with exciting new

materials such as metals, wires and spray paints, etc.

She is also fascinated by old embroideries and has a huge collection

which started with one or two pieces of her grandmother’s. Once people

knew of her enthusiasm, they gave her lots more pieces.

Tricia has been a member of the Brighton Branch of the Embroiderers’

Guild since 1982 (very close to its foundation). She has served on the

committee on and off over the years and is currently chairperson having

served previously in this post.

Tricia is keen to share her enthusiasm and is planning to gather together

a group of like-minded local people to explore embroidery and hopes

that this will lead to a 10-12 week course based at the Centre in Ladies

Mile Road, Patcham, BN1 8QE. Contact tylertricia@yahoo.co.uk for

details.

Interviewed and written by Jan Newbury, 2009