Derby Cathedral Embroidery Workshop

Derby Cathedral Embroidery Workshop 

The Workshop has been in existence since 1955. The Rev’d Canon Leonard Childs led the workshop from the 1970s until 2004 and many of the vestments designed by him are still being used at the cathedral today.

The current team of volunteers in the Workshop meet weekly at the Cathedral to work on restoration/repair work such as church vestments and altar frontals. We can also work with you to design and stitch new vestments and church fabrics.

Commission for Dundee Cathedral

In 2023 we were commissioned to design and make a set of six copes and two mantles for Dundee Cathedral on the theme of the River Tay which runs through the city.  Subsequently, we were also asked to make two altar falls to match.

Cope for the Bishop of Argyll

We designed and made a cope for the Bishop of Argyll and the Isles for his Consecration in 2024.

Opus Anglicanum

In 2025 we were one of 12 cathedrals around the country to be involved in the biggest project of Opus Anglicanum (English Embroidery) since 1530, under the guidance of the Royal School of Needlework.

The project was the Circle of Life made on behalf of the Worshipful Company of Upholders.  The finished piece was unveiled at the Guildhall in London in July 2026.

Contact Us

For further information about repairs to your church vestments, or to commission new items please contact Derby Cathedral office at office@derbycathedral.org  and the Workshop coordinators will be happy to speak with you. Additionally, we are always on the lookout for new Sewing Members.