WE TRIED: MURTON MAKES

By Sophie 

I recently went along to one of the new Murton Makes workshops at Murton Fabrics, and it was a lovely way to spend a Monday morning!

Having only started in August, their new workshops have already become really popular, with lots of different classes to choose from. They offer everything from Tote Bag Making and Crochet Classes to Leather Belt Workshops and lots more! They’re also running seasonal workshops, where you can make your own festive wreaths, Christmas stockings, aprons, felt baubles and other seasonal goodies. There’s something for everyone!

I went along to the Tote Bag Making class with my grandma, and it was the perfect way to start the week. We were welcomed by June, who was running the class in their great new workspace, located just around the side of the shop. The space is perfect for the classes; June had the sewing machines set up ready to go, and everything we needed to get started. There were four of us in the class, which made it feel really relaxed and meant June had plenty of time to help everyone. She was really friendly and helpful throughout, showing us each step and making sure we were all happy with what we were doing before moving on.

We began by having a little practice on the sewing machines, using a test piece of fabric to get used to how they worked. This is really helpful, especially if you’re not familiar with a sewing machine or haven’t used one for a while.

Once we’d got the hang of it, we got straight into making our tote bags. June had already cut all the fabric ready for us, and our first job was to press the fabric ready to make the straps for the bag. After sewing the straps together, we moved on to making the main part of the bag, followed by the inside lining.

June guided us through the whole process, helping whenever we needed it and making everything really easy to follow. There was no rushing, and everyone could work at their own pace. We also had tea, coffee and biscuits while we worked! 

Everyone in the class was really friendly, and we all had a chat as we worked on our bags. It was a lovely way to spend the morning, and something a little different from the usual Monday routine.

Whether you’ve done a bit of sewing before or you’re a complete beginner, I think the workshops are a great way to give something new a go. June was brilliant at explaining everything, and the smaller class size meant there was always someone there to help if you got stuck. I’d definitely recommend checking out the Murton Makes workshops if you fancy trying something different, learning a new skill or just enjoying a few hours getting creative.

Find Murton Fabrics at Warehouse 1, Stamford Bridge Rd, YO19 5LN. Email murtonfabricsyorkltd@gmail.com to book your place at an upcoming workshop or get in touch with the team!