On until 1 June 2024

A special exhibition about a little-known local scientific invention with a huge global impact: the development of artificial silk.

Invented in Kew at the turn of the twentieth century, viscose rayon is a soft, silky textile made from wood pulp which is still one of the most widely produced fibres in the world today.

FREE ENTRY. Visit during usual Museum opening hours.

Dates throughout 2024

Fancy learning a new craft but not sure where to start?

Want to brush up on your craft skills?

Would you like to meet some fellow crafters?

Then join us for an afternoon of crafting and creativity!

In each workshop we explore the story behind a beautifully crafted object in the Museum’s collection and how it helps us tell the story of Richmond, and use the object as inspiration for a craft project based on the object and the skills needed to create it. No experience needed – absolute beginners very welcome.

Everyone gets a beautifully designed information booklet about the objects we explore, their history and the craft techniques covered in the workshop, along with a goody bag of materials so you can keep crafting at home.

These workshops are ‘donate what you can’ to help us keep them open to as many people as possible.

Booking essential as places are limited

Workshops are held at the Museum, between 1pm to 3pm on the following dates:

Wednesday 16 and Saturday 19 October, Blackwork embroidery, inspired by mourning wear and ghost stories from Richmond Palace!
Goody bag contents will include: information booklet, aida/joblene material, embroidery needle, selection of embroidery floss/thread

Wednesday 13 and Saturday 16 November, Embroidered cards, inspired by embroidered postcards sent in WWI
Goody bag contents will include: information booklet, embroidery hoop, fabric pen, needle, fabric to embroider, a selection of embroidery floss and a card to attach your design to.

Wednesday 11 and Saturday 14 December, Paper Decoupage Christmas Cards, inspired by the Museum’s Christmas card collection
Goody bags will include: information booklet, card blanks, glue sticks, and a selection of decoupage materials

COMING SOON – 2025 WORKSHOPS!

Every Thursday at 2pm

Join the Museum Team and discover more of the secrets and stories behind the Museum’s collection by at one of our FREE Curator’s tours. 

Every Thursday at 2pm. No need to book – just head to the Museum’s reception. 

Tours last 20-30 minutes.

Every month has a different theme: