The Stone Age Sewing Kit
The Course
Explore the evidence for, and the practicality of the Stone Age Sewing Kit. You will have a chance to cut deerskin using flint tools and experience sewing it using bone awls and real sinew as well as plant fibres whilst we discuss just what palaeolithic needles were for. Make your own needle case, get to grips with thread production, and start designing and making a sewing bag of your own using a range of traditional leathers, flax and nettle fabrics and stone age inspired beads. You will have the choice of making this bag using the methods explored earlier or switching to modern needle and thread if preferred.
You will go home with a complete sewing kit of bone awl and needle, wooden needle case, assorted threads, plus your sewing pouch in progress and a good understanding of the surviving elements of the prehistoric sewing kit and what we can infer about it using archaeology and anthropology.
*Should anyone be unable to work with animal products, if I have plenty of advance warning we can modify your kit to include plant fibres and wooden awl and needle. Be aware that there will be animal products being used by the rest of the group throughout the session and that you will not get the full experience of working with sinew and awl.
The Tutor
Sally Pointer has a background in archaeology and museum learning. She is the author of ‘The Artifice of Beauty, a practical guide to perfumes and cosmetics’ and works as a freelance heritage educator exploring traditional crafts through practical experiments. She is currently writing a new book on the history and archaeology of soap.
Participant Information
All tools will be provided.
Fee & Refreshments
£85 per person, to include tuition, coffee and tea, and cake. If you have any dietary requirements please let us know in advance. The Museum café will be open for lunch, or you may wish to bring a packed lunch.
Please read our Adult Day Courses terms & conditions.
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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.
