Knitting and Stitching, Alexandra Palace 2011

This is the famous window at Ally Pally from the outside, I only realised on this visit that there are statues right up on the top of the roof.

It was a wonderful sunny and clear day, and as you can see the view across London was splendid. You can click on any of these pictures to see more detail.

Started from home at 7am and travelled up with the coach, getting to Ally Pally by about 11am.

Inside at the Show, I visited the sellers area first, and helped my daughter to make the purchases on her shopping list. Unfortunately I was taken ill half way round and kept fainting... so were rescued by 2 very kind ambulance men. I really did feel silly not being able to walk myself to the fresh air.... but I am very grateful to them for wheel chairing me. After about an hour, and a cup of tea and a chocolate bar... all recommended by my medical attendants, I felt a lot better.

First stop was to go and see my dodger mate Dale... I only ever manage to see her once a year when she comes to Ally Pally... we managed to get a few minutes to chat, as she is alwys so busy on her well stocked stall- The Thread Studio.

I managed to see many of the exhibitions I had highlighted.. but as you can imagine had to leave a lot out to. Many of the exhibitors would not allow photos... so I shall leave them out.

However the Practical Study Group- now renamed the Textile study group

allowed me to take photos. I really enjoyed the work, especially as I know a few of the artists.

Another Exhibition in which I was able to take photos was the Islamic Exhibition by John Gillow. I did enjoy inspecting them carefully.

Another exhibition which I enjoyed was Beryl Dean, celebrating 100 years since her birth. She was a wonderful and dedicated Church embroiderer. A huge showing of many of her works... no photos allowed alas as they were selling a catalologue for £10.00

Must also give a huge thank you to Kevin of Art Van Go.. when he heard about what happened to me... he gave me a hand fan, and I have to say it was a great help during the afternoon.

A great day, which I thoroughly enjoyed despite the unexplained fainting bouts. As usual spent all my money, but very sensibly on procian dyes and transfer paints. I also bought Jan Beaneys and Jean Littlejohns new book, which I have dipped into and it is very inspirational.... just what I need today as part of my recuperating.