Needle Creations:

Growing out of a hobby

Needle Creations, an academy and studio for sewing using the latest in teaching aides including magnifying lights was officially opened on October 30, 2015 with an exhibition showcasing the paraphernalia of the craft and the finished products.

Located in a picturesque setting overlooking the Diyawanna Garden Lake in Pelawatte, the academy, which will be offering classes in English, Sinhala and Tamil, is the brainchild of Ramani Liyanage and Shamini Rockwood, both of who have received extensive training in needle craft in Japan, America, New Zealand, Australia and Sri Lanka.

Both excel in needle craft, creating some of the finest examples in shadow work, appliqué, hard anger, Sri Lankan and Brazilian embroidery, patchwork, ribbon work, cross stitch, needle painting, Ruskin lace, stump work and candlewicking.

'Needle Creations' in Battaramulla is the third academy opened by the duo. "Stitching has been my hobby," says Ramani, who is also a landscaper and deems the academy a continuation of her hobby.

She also teaches needlecraft free of charge to around 200 students out of Colombo. "All the necessary things for the class are provided free for them," she says, explaining that she came up with the idea of a studio in a bid to give the girls an opportunity to sell the things they create and what she produces. Along with being a marketing outlet for students' creations, the studio also offers materials required for needle craft and books for reference.

On display at opening day exhibition was a display of antique sewing machines that Ramani had been collecting since childhood.

Shamini is Ramani's partner and best friend. "We do things together," says Ramani, explaining that they use linen, bebiliots, hand embroidery and quillets, and that every time either of them travel abroad, they never miss the opportunity to do a needle work course.

"I know her for the past 30 years and we have been good friends," says Shamini, who elaborates that since childhood Ramani has been interested in stitching and she has been collecting items related to stitching. Both are old girls of St. Bridget's Convent, Colombo and from childhood both have shared the interest in needlework, which had inspired them and set them on the current course.

Reported by Husna Inayathullah

Pix by Ranjith Asanka