Your tutor Yvonne has been making bobbin lace for over 25 years a mixture of traditional and modern using white and coloured threads. The course teaches Torchon lace which is idea for beginners and no previous experience is required but those with experience are also welcome.

As well as lace making you will also be able to experience knitting courses and also some other craft courses.  These are optional and will run along side the lace course if required. 

There will be two three hour sessions daily except on a Wednesday when you will be free to enjoy the local area or explore further afield. Sofia is an hour away by train and the town of Svoge with its shops restaurants and bars is only a short distance away in either car, taxi or bus.  Or maybe you will choose to have a nice relaxing day by the pool overlooking the fantastic views of the mountains and village below or just reading the day away.  If you choose to stay within the Mountain Retreat on this day your meals will be provided as usual.  If you decide to go further a field a packed lunch can be requested.

A typical day at the "Mountain Retret" will start with a continental breakfast followed by the morning practical session which will take place either in the work room or on the outdoor undercover, part shaded, terrace area.  Mountain Retreat is situated near the top of a mountain overlooking the valley and pine forests.  The terrace is the perfect place for any craft activity with its stunning views high summer temperatures & low rainfall.  Lunch follows the morning session and then there is time for an optional short stroll down to the river or some free time before the afternoon session.
For beginners the first sessions will be spent learning the basic stitches (there are only two, whole stitch and half stitch) which are the basis of all bobbin lace designs.  These groups of stitches will make one or two bookmarks of your choice from a range of simple designs. You will then go on to make either a necklace, mat, horseshoe, teddybear or butterfly the choice is yours.
Those with more experience can choose from a range of more complicated designs or work on their own piece of work.  The day is then rounded off with a 3 course evening meal. 

All sessions are optional so you will not feel pressured into taking part in every session if you don't want to.

If you want to come with a friend, partner or someone who does not want to take part in the yoga sessions then this is not a problem, they still be able to share meal times and will have unlimited use of the facilities.  There is a reduction in the price for all non participating residents, please contact us for prices etc.

EQUIPMENT:

The only thing you will need to bring with you is a covered piece of polystyrene, or lace pillow, at least 12 x 10 inches.  All the other equipment you will need for the course ie. bobbins, pins, patterns and thread will be supplied by "The Mountain Retreat", however if you wish to use your own equipment , please feel free to bring it with you.  We also have a selection of lace and craft making kit available to purchase from our shop during your stay.