'Celebrations', and 'Cradle to Grave'. Two exhibitions in York

The Quilt Museum and Gallery in York have timed their new exhibition to take advantage of this spring's big event, and 'Celebrations' will give visitors a chance to see celebratory items from birth, marriage and anniversaries.  Quilters will be particularly interested in the chance to see the quilted wedding dress made by Amy Emms for her daughter. Interestingly, the shape and style of the dress is not a million miles from that worn by Kate Middleton.

In tandem with Celebrations there is an exhibition titled 'Made in Yorkshire' featuring invited work from textile artists working in the area.  Work on show includes weaving, embroidery and quilting.

While you are in York, I recommend a permanent exhibition in York Castle Museum, 'From Cradle to Grave'.  This exhibition covers traditions surrounding birth, marriage and death in England over the past 300 years and won many plaudits for its curator, Josie Sheppard, when it first opened.  It is a textile and costume-rich exhibition with much to fascinate.