We had such a great response when we shared a post about Stitch Up magazine last month. Produced in-house by Fine Cell Work's Programmes team, Stitch Up is written for and distributed to our network of stitchers in prison. It's packed with interesting content, including interviews, articles and updates from Fine Cell Work staff, volunteers and stitchers, and we are excited to share our first instalment from a recent magazine with you.

Prison Officer Fox was asked to sit in on one of Fine Cell Work’s stitching groups as part of his duties, and with encouragement from one of our amazing volunteers, he is now working towards his Quiltmaking Open College Network (OCN) certification alongside the stitchers.

We sat down with Officer Fox and asked him about his experiences with Fine Cell Work, and how stitching has benefited him.

How did you become involved in Fine Cell Work?

I'm a prison officer and, instead of just sitting there and observing the stitchers working, I asked if I could get involved - I started working on a nine-patch pillow.

I had never stitched before and, I’ll be honest, when I was asked to cover the group it was all a bit of a joke. I’m a big guy and the thought of me stitching was quite amusing to some of my colleagues! But once I got involved and started the work, I enjoyed it and have run the group ever since.

Officer Fox's 9-Patch Block, appliqué coaster and Celtic Knot quilting sample

What do you like best about quilting?

I really like the group setting of Fine Cell Work. I also find having something to work toward, such as a pillow or blanket, is rewarding when you actually finish, or get near to finishing it.

Can you describe the atmosphere in the quilting group?

The atmosphere in the Fine Cell Work group is really enjoyable. The residents are all pretty serious and are looking to progress to designing their own brands and things like that. I have a group of six stitchers who attend every week, with a few lone stitchers that will do their own work and pop into the group from time to time.

What are you making for your Quiltmaking OCN?

I have completed my pillow and coaster, and have now almost finished my blanket, which I'm making for my son, for the final learning objective. The design I went for is a wood with foxes in it. I have tried to complement that with material that matched that theme.

Beyond needlework skills, what does working toward an OCN offer stitchers?

I think that working toward an OCN helps stitchers to open their minds and be creative in designing their own work.

What benefits do you think needlework brings to your fellow stitchers?

Our Fine Cell Work group has certainly helped some of the residents to be able to open up more, and to speak amongst a group of people. We have had some really good chats about current affairs whilst producing some really good quality work.

Finally, do you have a favourite piece you have stitched?

I am enjoying my blanket, as I designed it myself so got to put my own stamp onto something.

Detail and reverse of Officer Fox's quilt

---

There are many ways to get involved with Fine Cell Work. Our diverse community is made up of stitchers, post-release apprentices, volunteers, trustees and staff.

To keep up to date with all of our opportunities, as well as our latest news and product launches, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and X.