Flax to Linen
The Course
Learn how our ancestors processed the flax plant into linen fabric. For millennia this vital plant clothed us and became our second skin. Come and learn the traditional skill of ‘breaking’ and ‘scutching’ this course fibre into simple twine.
The day will cover:
- Social history of flax growing
- Growing, retting and processing a crop flax
- Breaking, scutching, hackling fibre to produce ‘linen line’ or ‘silver’ using simple hand tools
- Preparing fibres for spinning with traditional spindles and worls
- To learn how to ‘dress’ a ‘distaff’
- Using ‘Tow’ to make a simple twine and learn how to make rope.
The Tutor
Catherine Guilder has degrees’ in History and Heritage with further studies in Theology. She is an expert on a wide range of historical topics including religious observance during the Reformation and Tudor women’s social history. She has been an historical interpreter at the Museum for several years and deliver historic cooking demonstrations at many local venues. She has also appeared in historical television programmes for the BBC and participated in educational pod casts for primary schools as part of the ‘Cook It’ project.
Participant Information
This workshop is limited to 6 participants. All materials and tools are provided.
Please be aware there will be lots of dust in the air whilst completing some tasks. Please bring an inhaler if required.
Fee & Refreshments
£85 per person, to include tuition, teas and coffees. Please let the Museum know if you have any special dietary requirements. The Museum café will be open or you can bring a packed lunch.
Please read our Adult Day Courses terms & conditions.
Book Here
Courses at our Museum
Lifelong learning has been at the heart of the Museum’s mission since its founding over 50 years ago. We are dedicated to promoting the preservation of historic buildings and architectural heritage, as well as keeping alive the traditional crafts, trades, and industries of the Weald & Downland region.
We offer a rich programme of day schools, longer courses and evening talks that celebrate Historic Building Conservation, Traditional Rural Trades, and Crafts. Each course is led by experienced practitioners who are passionate about their field and generous in sharing both their knowledge and hands-on skills.
Whether you’re seeking a rewarding new hobby, aiming to develop practical expertise, or considering a career change, our courses provide inspiration and opportunity in equal measure. We invite you to explore our programme, discover what excites you, and join us in keeping these valuable traditions alive.
