Where did Norwich weavers live? And what were hand-looms in Norwich actually like?

Many people have expressed an interest in finding out more about the weavers' houses, workshops and equipment. So very few original buildings remain, and we are not aware of a single surviving l hand-loom. Now visitors to this site can find out more thanks to a new piece of work carried out by Alan Morris. Alan has constructed a scale model of a four poster loom using information built up over years of research. The model is used to illustrate an article written jointly by Thelma and Alan Morris, Housing for Master Weavers, Journeyman Weavers and their Looms. We are pleased to make this available to mark the first anniversary of the Norwich Textiles web-site.

Costume and Textiles Events at the Bridewell Museum, Bridewell Alley, Norwich

Building work is taking place at Carrow House during 2007. Join us instead for talks and tours at the Bridewell Museum.

Under Wraps
Last Friday of Every Month, 10.30-12.30
Join our costume curators for an introduction into some of our precious stored costume and textile collections.
Free drop-in event. Please call 01603 629127 for details.

Step Back in Time
Wednesday 1st August, 11.00-12.00
Join us for a fascinating look at the history of shoes. Learn how Norwich was once famous for its quality ladies' and children's shoes and see some of the city's finest examples close up.
Free event. Please call 01603 629127 to reserve a place.

Great Exhibition Shawl for Carrow House

Carrow House has recently been able to add a truly magnificent example to its collection of Norwich Shawls, thanks to the generosity of the Costume and Textiles Association and to the V& A Purchase Grant Fund.

It was made by major Norwich manufacturer Towler & Campin, as a showpiece to exhibit at the Great Exhibition, 1851, and features a pivoting design in red and green, with great swags and sprays of both realistic and imaginary flowers. This was fashionable, especially in France, from 1849 into the 1860s. The exuberant decoration shows the influence of the Vegetale style, which was in vogue from 1849 to 1851. Woven with a warp of silk and a worsted weft, this is Norwich weaving at its finest, and exemplifying the luxury end of the market for which Norwich was renowned.