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Arts and crafts

Discover the fascinating world of arts and crafts at Hampton Court Palace...

Located within the palace are two craft organisations: the Royal School of Needlework and the Embroiderers Guild, both of whom run classes and workshops covering a range of embroidery skills. For further information please visit their websites at

www.embroiderersguild.org.uk

The Royal School of Needlework at Hampton Court Palace

The Royal School of Needlework trains professional embroiderers to work on a diverse range of commissions in their Studio. The highly skilled embroiderers work on both design and production of contemporary work, and also undertake conservation of textiles of national importance.

Public classes and courses are offered to anyone with an interest in learning embroidery and cater for all levels of ability from beginner onward.

The RSN has a shop on the East Front open to the public on weekdays and some weekends.

www.royal-needlework.co.uk

Florilegium

The Hampton Court Palace Florilegium Society members meet one day per month at the palace to paint, research plant material and enjoy a variety of speakers. Members are able to explore the beautiful gardens and glasshouses and they have the help and co-operation of the Head Gardener and his team in their research of the plants.

Full Members submit at least one painting per annum to be considered for inclusion in the Hampton Court Palace Florilegium Archive. The works are judged by a panel on their botanical accuracy and standard of painting, chosen works are donated by the individual Member to the Hampton Court Palace for the Archive.

A Member who has had three paintings accepted becomes a Fellow of the Hampton Court Palace Florilegium Society.

The Society takes part in several of the annual events held at Hampton Court Palace and often paintings on display are for sale.

For further information about Florilegium and its forthcoming events click here...

What's on

Young Henry VIII exhibition

Come to Hampton Court Palace and meet the 'pin-up' prince, before he became fat old Henry VIII!

Hats & handbags

This publication, by Joanna Marschner and Beatrice Behlen, coincides with an exhibition at Kensington Palace of more than 120 hats, handbags and gloves belonging to HM The Queen. It provides a unique insight into the working wardrobe of a modern monarch, where accessories have a special and important role. Containing over 40 images, this book is a fascinating read and a great souvenir of the exhibition.