Teddington's Landmark Arts Centre has launched a new fundraising project – 'Be Kind' - which has been created by expert embroiderer, Sophie Long, graduate of The Royal School of Needlework and one of the team who worked on Kate Middleton's wedding dress.

The 'Be Kind' gold work and ribbon work embroidery kit is suitable for all abilities and contains a linen design, by Sophie, silk ribbons, gold thread, needles, wool and image of the end piece along with access to an online tutorial, which is a step-by-step guide to create the project.

Sophie Long, commented: "I'm delighted to be helping out The Landmark. The inspiration behind the project came from, that if 2020 has taught us anything, it is to 'be kind' to others and ourselves.

The kit is the perfect excuse to sit down and become totally absorbed in the now. You will be able to dip in and out of it as you wish and the tutorial is yours to access anytime to fit around you."

Josie Muirhead, Landmark's Education Officer, commented: "Sophie has been our creative embroidery tutor at The Landmark for many years and we're thrilled that she has created this beautiful project to help with our fundraising appeal.

The kit makes such a lovely project and is perfect for accomplished embroiderers or perhaps those looking to learn a new skill during this lockdown."

The kit costs £45 and for every one sold a £10 donation is made to The Landmark and can be purchased at: https://landmark-arts-centre.myshopwired.co.uk/kits-workshops/be-kind---a-ribbonwork-goldwork-kit-class-with-sophie-long

Josie added: "We really hope that the kit will inspire anyone to have a go and we would be delighted to see people's finished work, so do send us images to post on our social media."

Sophie graduated from the Royal School of Needlework in 2008, since when she has written two books on Hand Embroidery and was also one of the embroiderers chosen to work on the Duchess of Cambridge's wedding dress.

Sophie's passion and undeniable talent for embroidery is displayed through her teaching, extensive range of kits and original works.