A total of 16 bloggers and writers attended the ‘The Stitch Room SEWcial’ which incorporated activities such as sewing demonstrations, a tour of the textile facilities at º¬Ðß²ÝÊÓƵ, a visit to the Arts Degree Show as well as individual photo shoots of handmade garments that had been created.

The event, which took place last month, also welcomed independent sewing pattern designer and maker Marilla Walker, who provided invaluable advice to the guests over the two days.

The SEWcial was a collaboration between online sewing superstore Sew Essential and New Vintage Sewing – an Instagram account that shares sewing tips and techniques ran by the University’s Technical Tutor in Textiles Anne Acosta.

Anne was inspired to organise the event after discovering the strong online sewing community and learning how the hobby has helped many people.

Of the SEWcial, Anne said: “It was an amazing weekend and it was so good to meet like-minded people who I had chatted to online previously.

“People travelled from all over to spend the time together it was very special. I hope we can make it an annual event open to more people from the sewing community, as feedback from the event has been very positive.”

Lucy Regan, of Sew Essential, added: “Social media has actually brought people together in the sewing world.

“Friendships and contact made via Instagram in particular have led to the sort of event we organized and genuine friends have been forged.”