MILITARY "decorations" are taking on a whole new meaning.

For this weekend sees the launch of a series of three special textile workshops at Bury's Fusilier Museum for people interested in improving their sewing skills.

The new initiative organised by the Moss Street museum will allow participants to take inspiration from its military collection.

They will be guided through the processes necessary to make their own bags, cushion covers and sewing cases. Workshops are aimed at individuals who have a basic knowledge of sewing but are also suitable for the more advanced.

The workshops, beginning on Saturday (March 7), will take place over three consecutive weeks and run from 10.30am to 4pm. Each session costs £15 or £40 for all three. Each will cover a different item:

• Saturday (March 7): shopping bags

• Saturday March 14: embroidered sewing cases

• Saturday March 21: printed cushion covers

Bill Longshaw, museum learning officer, said: "The textile items that we will be making all take inspiration from the Lancashire Fusiliers and the military, which will result in really interesting and unique items. We want to invite anyone that has an interest in sewing to come along and try out our sessions, whatever their ability.”

The workshops, run in conjunction with the Bury Asian Women's Centre, will be led by Glenys Walsh, an experienced dress maker and all-round crafter who has run outreach workshops at Gallery Oldham for many years.

All materials and sewing machines will be provided to use, although attendees are welcomed to bring their own machine, material and ideas.

Booking in advance is essential, as numbers are limited.

To book a place: e-mail bill.longshaw@thefusiliermuseum.com or phone 0161 763 8966.