The journey began in 1978 when Dick and Norma Restall bought the derelict Tri Thy Farm. Their vision was to turn the site into a craft centre and by 1981 it was open and became known as Tri Thy Craft Centre. Over the years there has been a change of both the name and the appearance of the complex. The goal of bringing quality fabrics, threads, needlework products and techniques together with the vast knowledge of the family in these skills has never diminished. This journey continues now led by Mary, the youngest of the family.
Create Nostalgia is the retail section of Mary Jane Collection specialising in Needlecraft and Beading products. Nestled on the west side of Hope Mountain in part of the old Granary at Tri Thy, with idyllic views across the valley to Moel Fammau, it is not hard to see where the inspiration for some of our kits and charts has come from. Mary Jane Collection was established in 1997 and our full range has been designed and manufactured on our premises. Our designs include traditional Crewel embroidery, Goldwork, Blackwork, Ribbon embroidery, Stumpwork, Cross Stitch and Stitched samplers which include charms and buttons from the USA. Mary together with her mother Norma and sister Jane have designed the extensive range. Jane left the business in 2006 leaving Mary and her mother to continue the work. With the wholesale side of Mary Jane Collection taking the family to the states for trade shows it is not hard to see why Mary has such a large range of products from the USA.
In the past they have also arranged needlework holidays to Washington / Harrisonburg and Boston / Salam not only having private workshops at needlework shops and with American designers but taking in the famous sights and views.
The range of products from the USA includes:-
Threads from Caron Collection, Gentle Art and Weeks Dye Works and now Paternayan.
Charts from some of the top USA designers; JBW Designs, Lizzie Kate, Foxwood Crossing, Elizabeth Designs, Just Nan, Prairie Schooler, Shepherd’s Bush, to name a few. Not forgetting our Canadian designers, Jeanette Douglas and The Victoria Sampler.
We stock a large range of Buttons from Just Another Button Company and Charms from By Jupiter.
We have the full range of Mill Hill Beads and nearly all of the Treasures, Perforated Paper, Bandings plus a large range of their kits and charts.
From the UK we have Tapestry kits from Primavera and Animal Fayre and Cards from Craft Creations.
We also stock a range of pre-cut and by the metre Aida, linens and canvas from Permin and Zweigart. Threads from DMC, printed tablecloths from Deco-line, hoops, frames, needles and other needlework essentials. In addition we stack the Tilda range of fabrics and accessories.
We are bound to have missed something from our extensive stock. If you are unable to find what you are looking for on our website we would be pleased to help you by phone or to greet you as a personal caller to the shop on Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 10.30am – 4pm. Visits can be made at other times by prior arrangement. We can also order items in for you on request.
Mary holds workshops in Tri Thy Farm House which has a light hearted and homely atmosphere. The workshops are mixed ability and mixed techniques. We also run one day courses to cover specific items/techniques so if you wish to learn something new why not come along and join the family. We feel it is important that it is not just about learning but making new friends as well.
We support local charities by holding special events in the farm house one of which is the Home Made Christmas. This special event showcases items stitched or made by our ladies who attend our courses plus our own hand - made Christmas decorations. It would not be Christmas without the famous homemade mince pies which Mary and her long suffering mother make. Look out for these events as they are a must see.
We welcome groups to visit by appointment. Mary is happy for them to browse the shop and if required she will also supply tea and scones. This is how it all began in 1981 with the opening of Tri Thy Craft Centre? How time flies.
Happy Stitching,
Mary Gittins