About us
Discover the Gwent Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers
The Gwent Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers is one of Wales’s longest-established textile groups, bringing together people passionate about handweaving, spinning, natural dyeing, fibre arts, and traditional crafts since 1956. Based in Newport, South Wales, our Guild welcomes everyone—from absolute beginners to experienced makers—who wants to explore the creativity and heritage of fibre.
A Rich Craft Heritage Since 1956
Founded by Enid Russ, a respected textiles tutor at the former Newport College of Art, our Guild grew from a small group of dedicated craftspeople to a vibrant community committed to keeping the traditional textile arts alive. Early meetings took place near Newport railway station and in Pentonville, where our first Chair, Lady Raglan, helped shape the Guild’s early direction. Lady Raglan is widely known for introducing the term “Green Man” into modern folklore studies.
Part of a National Network of Textile Guilds
In the late 1950s we joined the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers, connecting us with creative communities across the UK. Through joint workshops, exhibitions, and demonstrations with neighbouring guilds, we helped promote craft education and the revival of traditional textile skills throughout Wales and the West of England.
Crafting Community Across South Wales
Over the decades, the Gwent Guild found homes across Newport, Cwmbran, Risca, and Pontypool. For more than 30 years we were based at Greenmeadow Community Farm, where countless members learned to weave, spin, and dye. After a short period at Panteg House, we moved in April 2023 to our new long-term home at High Cross Community Hall in Rogerstone, Newport.
Today, our Guild continues to offer:
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Monthly meetings and hands-on workshops
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Demonstrations in weaving, spinning, and dyeing
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Opportunities to learn traditional textile skills
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A welcoming creative community for all ages and abilities
Join Our Creative Textile Community
Whether you want to learn a new skill, improve your craft, or meet friendly, like-minded people in the Newport and Gwent area, the Gwent Guild of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers invites you to get involved.
Come and discover the joy of creating with fibre, colour, and cloth.