At the 2026 Lady Anne’s Online Needlework Festival, we are delighted to welcome you to enjoy two charming beginner-friendly designs inspired by Lady Helen’s 17th-century wall hangings in King Malcolm’s Room at Glamis Castle: the Glamis Elephant and the Glamis Duck.
The History and Heritage of Lady Helen’s Wall Hangings
These exquisite textiles were originally bed hangings, carefully stitched by Lady Helen Middleton (later Countess of Strathmore). Lady Helen was the wife of Patrick, the 3rd Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Her husband had inherited an enormous debt from his father, and Helen supported him while he turned around the family’s fortunes and revitalised Glamis Castle.
Patrick’s “Book of Record”, written between 1684 and 1689, refers to Lady Helen as a skilful housewife and manager of domestic affairs, a wise counsellor in times of difficulty and a devoted mother who reared her family with discretion. She was also a talented needlewoman and the beautiful wall hangings in King Malcolm’s Room were sewn by her, probably with the assistance of her two daughters, Grizel and Elizabeth.
They were completed in 1683 and are said to have taken fourteen years to finish. Fruit, foliage, birds and other animals can be seen intricately worked into the linen.
From Bed Hangings to Wall Art
In later years, these bed hangings were repurposed as wall hangings in King Malcolm’s Room. During conservation, experts discovered original yellow silk lining, confirming that these were once intimate, functional textiles, valued not only for decoration, but also for warmth and comfort.
Glamis Elephant: A Gentle Introduction to Crewel Work
The Glamis Elephant brings one of Lady Helen’s charming animal motifs to life in a relaxed, welcoming one-day class. With Phillipa's warm, expert guidance, you will explore classic crewel stitches and enjoy a hands-on connection to the castle’s historic textiles.
During the class you will learn foundational crewel techniques, discover the stories behind the original 17th-century motifs, and end the day with your own delightful elephant – a small but meaningful piece of Glamis-inspired heritage.
Glamis Duck: A Playful Companion
The Glamis Duck design recreates another joyful motif from the same historic hangings. Also taught as a one-day beginner class, it pairs Phillipa’s friendly teaching style with the pleasure of stitching something light-hearted, charming, and full of history.
If you are looking for a relaxed, approachable project, whether you are brand new to crewel work or simply want a gentle, enjoyable stitching day with something complete at the end, this class is a perfect choice.
