4 minute read
Purl-fectly knitted wedding dress liked by over 1,000 people
A vintage-style wedding dress knitted by an 80-year-old in three weeks took a knitting group by storm on social media.
The story of the 80-year-old greatgrandmother from Whitsbury near Fordingbridge was sent to Dorset View and Viewpoint by Avon Valley Community Matters (AVCM).
Once posted on the Dorset View website and shared to social media, the story received terrific feedback on the magazine’s Facebook page with nearly 50 likes and comments ranging from “absolutely stunning”, “a true masterpiece” to “unbelievable,” but once it was shared in the ‘Knitting Patterns Only’ group, the likes there shot to over 1,000 in 24 hours.
Shirley Ellicott, the 80-year-old mother of five, grandmother to 11 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 10, who knitted the intricate wedding dress using pure cotton and knitting needles was completely overwhelmed with the response.
“It’s amazing what two needles can do,” Shirley said. “I’ve sewn a wedding dress before but have always wanted to knit one. I wanted to do it properly, so I found a pattern and off I went. I just get a bee in my bonnet sometimes and just go for it.”
Self-taught Shirley, mastered the art of embroidery, sewing, knitting and crochet, and has previously created prom dresses, christening gowns, shawls and many more bespoke items over the years, but this is her first knitted wedding dress.
The result is this stunning, size 12-14, 1930s’ vintage-style cotton gown with a wide train at the base and pearl-effect button detail.
The dress is available to view and try on at AVCM’s charity shop on the high street.
Those with a genuine interest in the dress can contact AVCM on 01425 653258, or email avcommunitymatters@gmail.com for more details. A portion of the proceeds of the sale of the dress will go towards AVCM’s community outreach projects.
With a wealth of expertise, Shirley holds regular knit and natter sessions at Avon Valley Community Matters’ (AVCM) charity shop on Fordingbridge High Street at 10am on Fridays. She is planning to create another wedding dress, so if you are looking for something bespoke, why not drop into her knit and natter to find out more.
New LAMDA performing arts hub for Ringwood
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An exciting performing arts programme has been launched in Ringwood. Former Principal of Big Little Theatre School, Michelle Guy, is delighted to be providing this new training hub – based at the Trinity Centre – in her hometown.
Compass Arts Education is about unlocking unique potential. It’s a place for young performers to explore, feel inspired and succeed as they develop their acting and communication techniques and styles.
Students work towards individual goals within small group settings. Juniors, Intermediates and Seniors navigate their own path to fruition, within the framework of a range of London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art (LAMDA) subjects. Group sessions focus on acting, performing Shakespeare, speaking in public, and verse and prose. Other programmes such as solo musical theatre, diploma and audition preparation are taught in one-to-one sessions.
LAMDA is a leading UK theatre school and an internationally recognised examining board (Ofqual regulated). Valuable UCAS points are gained at Grade 6 and above.
Michelle is a highly respected director and teacher of performing arts and is on the LAMDA board of examiners. She looks forward to welcoming any young performer who has a desire to develop their skills in an energised and friendly environment. Please contact the Compass Arts office to book a free trial. See adjacent advertisement.
