Staircase House is launching its ‘Time For Bed’ season in March to celebrate the work of a local group of embroiders.

Staircase Stitchers will be showcasing their work from the past five years designing and creating six replica 17th century bed-hangings for the historic bedroom in the house.

The special event to display the textile pieces is called ‘17th Century Changing Rooms’ and is being held on Tuesday 23rd March, from 1.00pm to 5.00pm. Two of the completed bed-hangings, along with a selection of other embroidered items will be on display at the event.

The group of volunteers meet twice a month and were formed in partnership with Stockport’s Heritage Trust. The group has been working under the guidance of Jane Dew, embroider for Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, to learn more about the historic embroidery techniques used in a 17th century house.

Members of the Staircase Stitchers will be present at the event to answer questions about their work and the inspiration behind it. Also, attending the event will be Manchester Metropolitan Embroidery Students who will answer questions about modern embroidery techniques.

The BA Embroidery Students from the School of Art and Design at the university have also developed an exhibition inspired by the theme of sleep and the historic beds found at Staircase House, Bramall Hall and Stockport’s Air Raid Shelters. The exhibition, entitled ‘The Art of Sleep’, forms a trail around the three venues and complements the work of the Stitchers with its contemporary take on the subject.

The ‘Art of Sleep’ exhibition can be viewed until the end of March and is open during normal visiting hours. Residents can take advantage of the Combined Ticket and visit all three venues for £10.

For more information about the events visit Staircase House, Bramall Hall or the Air Raid Shelters or visit www.staircasehouse.org.uk or call 0161 474 4444.

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