Lancashire Dialect Poetry: The People’s Voice in Verse captures the raw, and heartfelt spirit of everyday life through the words and rhythms of the people themselves. I’m endlessly fascinated by dialect poetry because it preserves the unique sounds, expressions, and humour of a place and time often overlooked in mainstream literature. It’s more than just… Read More lancashire dialect poetry: the people’s voice in verse
Organic cotton is a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton, lacking harmful chemicals and supporting better farming practices. Unlike traditional methods, organic farming uses natural processes for pest management and prioritises worker rights. While more costly, organic cotton promotes healthier ecosystems and offers softer fabric options, making it a responsible choice for consumers.… Read More organic cotton fabric: what makes it different and why it matters
During the Industrial Revolution, textile dyeing underwent significant transformations, transitioning from traditional natural dyes to the advent of synthetic alternatives. This period marked a pivotal shift in dyeing techniques, influenced by technological advancements and the demands of mass production. Traditional Dyeing Techniques Prior to the mid-19th century, natural dyes were the primary means of colouring… Read More Colouring the Industrial Age: How Textiles Were Dyed Before Synthetics
Viscose is one of the most widely used semi-synthetic fabrics in the world, known for its silk-like texture, softness, and versatility. Often labelled as “rayon” in the United States, viscose has been a staple in fashion and textiles since the early 20th century. But what exactly is viscose, and how sustainable is it really? What… Read More understanding viscose: a fabric at the crossroads of nature and industry
Ley lines — the mysterious alignments believed to connect ancient sacred sites across landscapes — continue to fascinate people across the world. These invisible energy paths are said to link megalithic monuments, churches, standing stones, and natural features in a straight line, carrying powerful earth energies. One traditional method believed to detect ley lines is… Read More dowsing for ley lines: ancient practice, modern curiosity
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, the way we measure, apply, and manage materials—what some call “dosing techniques”—can make a significant difference. Whether in natural dyeing, sustainable printing, or using resources mindfully in textile work, dosing isn’t just about quantity; it’s about intention and balance. This post explores how sustainable dosing techniques can help reduce waste, improve efficiency, and support more thoughtful creative practices. For anyone looking to make their craft more environmentally responsible, understanding how to dose materials sustainably is a valuable step forward.
… Read More understaind dosing techniques: precision, sustainability, and practice
It’s all too easy these days to slip into a familiar, almost automatic loop — one that many of us know very well. You reach for your phone, telling yourself it’ll just be a quick check, and suddenly hours have passed. You’ve been scrolling through a steady stream of unsettling headlines, distressing updates, and digital… Read More the one change that can work: start sketching and stop doomscrolling
Ley lines, those enigmatic, straight alignments connecting ancient sites—have long fascinated historians, mystics, and curious minds alike. In Hyde and the broader Greater Manchester region, these lines weave a tapestry of history, myth, and mystery that continues to captivate. What Are Ley Lines? The concept of ley lines was introduced by Alfred Watkins in the… Read More ley lines in hyde and the surrounding area: exploring ancient alignments and local lore
For as long as I can remember, the idea of travel has stirred something in me, a sense of wonder, possibility, and connection to the wider world. Whether it’s wandering through ancient streets, or seeing landscapes I’ve only dreamed of, or simply experiencing a new rhythm of life for a few days, I long to… Read More travel dreams with ocd and anxiety: holding onto hope while navigating challenges
Nestled in the Newton area of Hyde, Greater Manchester, Newton Hall stands as a remarkable testament to medieval architecture and local heritage. The hall is located on Dunkirk Lane, just off Dukinfield Road, this timber-framed cruck building is among the oldest surviving structures in North West England. Historical Overview Newton Hall was originally established by… Read More newton hall: a medieval gem in hyde’s heart
Rachel Bakewell 