FEW can equal the quality of engaging and vibrant textile exhibitions that have graced the space of Farfield Mill.

Some shows have been absolutely stunning.

From fabulous felting to magical methods using yarn and threads, the revered Sedbergh arts and heritage centre has welcomed work by some of the leading creators in the textile art world.

There's little doubt that Farfield provides a centre of excellence.

Embroiderer and Royal School of Needlework tutor Sara Dennis launches her first collection to be showcased in the north of England at Farfield on Wednesday, April 11.

Her work - An Apprentice’s Journey: Sara Dennis Embroidery - is a collection of her embroidery pieces that reveal her progression from novice stitcher to trained professional, during her three years on the future tutor programme at the Royal School of Needlework.

Embroidery has been Sara's hobby for many years. "Then it became my passion and now it’s my career," she explains. "After my career in nursing and the forces, I gained a degree in art history and museum studies from Lancaster University and then started the Royal School of Needlework future tutor programme where all the pieces for An Apprentice’s Journey were created.

"With my husband also in the forces, I’ve led a peripatetic life, so I’ve been lucky enough to have collected many experiences and influences on my travels. I’m particularly drawn to the ethnic and eclectic, which you’ll see in the exhibition."

In addition to tutoring at the prestigious needlework school - after graduating from the programme with an Outstanding Achievement Award - Sara also teaches embroidery at other prominent establishments such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Library and the Royal Free Hospital in London.

She has worked on several high profile commissions for the RSN, including a Nicholas Oakwell Couture evening gown for the Great Britain Campaign, Magna Carta (An Embroidery) designed by artist Cornelia Parker for the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta, the Game of Thrones Hardhome Embroidery and Burberry's Maker's House, in partnership with The New Craftsmen.

Continues Sara: "Embroidery has always held a fascination for me and exploring the history, techniques and examples of embroidery from around the world has been a joy as I have learned more and more about this extraordinary craft."

During the exhibition run, Farfield will host a Meet the Maker event on Sunday, April 15, from 2pm-5pm, providing visitors with the opportunity to pop along to meet Sara, check out her exquisite work and ask her any questions they may have about the collection.

An Apprentice’s Journey - Sara Dennis Embroidery runs at Farfield daily 10.30am-4pm until Monday, May 21.

Meanwhile, running at Farfield until May 7 is The Art of Quilting by Dawn Chandler and Levens Quilters.

A well-known Lakeland painter, Dawn has always loved sewing and when she inherited a sewing basket containing vintage sewing items she thought they would make an interesting subject to paint; so started an adventurous series of sewing themed paintings. After visiting an exhibition by the Levens Quilters, she was inspired by the quality of work and artistry. The Art of Quilting exhibition is a celebration of these beautiful quilts and Dawn's homage to textiles through her art.

For further information telephone Farfield Mill on 015396-21958.