Horsham spinning and weaving workshop generates interest 

Smaller numbers at a weekend textile workshop in Horsham failed to diminish interest from people outside the Wimmera.

Horsham Spinners and Weavers members hosted an Australia Day long weekend workshop in the Makers Studio in Horsham Library.

Spinners and weavers secretary Val Pascall said there were fewer participants than in the past, but there was a lot of interest from outside the region.

People travelled from centres including Mitiamo in northern Victoria, Somerville on the Mornington Peninsula and Naracoorte in South Australia.

Mrs Pascall said a sharing day workshop in October at Halls Gap had initially attracted outside interest.

"People came to the Grampians workshop from all over," she said.

"We have a lot of outside members now; we have about 27 members in total.

"We used to have more, but the need for hand-knitted garments that take more care to make has declined, with all the clothes you can chuck in the washing machine and hang on the line. But wool lasts."

Mrs Pascall said the group also gained new members through its regular 'come see, come try' classes.

"We are a progressive group and share our skills," she said. "New Wimmera migrants from Oasis Wimmera also provided lunch at the weekend and their food was outstanding.

"It was just divine. To taste different foods from their home countries was wonderful."

Mrs Pascall said members had made rugs and wall hangings using the theme of connection.

Horsham Library will exhibit the art from the textile workshop in March.