Learn in the studio over a long weekend in this exclusive class on straw embroidery.

Rooted in the 17th-century Swiss cottage industry, straw craft has recently seen a modern resurgence thanks to devoted researchers and practitioners.

In this class, you will explore the fundamentals of working with wheat and rye straw, unlocking the intricate textures and stitches inherent to this unique medium while gradually advancing your skills. Drawing from traditional embroidery techniques such as Goldwork and Raised Embroidery, you will explore additional skills including straw marquetry and plaiting, expanding your creative repertoire.

The sampler is designed to equip you with a diverse skill set, you to reimagine your creative practice through the lens of natural fibres and execute your own designs should you wish to do so.

Working in the studio, you will be able to manipulate sample pieces from my portfolio, in addition to accessing a curated collection of inspiration, bibliography, and supply list.

Workshops are open to a maximum of 4 people, so to get the best learning experience.

£275 for three days - all materials included.

Location:

Cockpit Arts - Bloomsbury
Cockpit Yard
Northington Street
London
WC1N 2NP

Please let me know if you require wheelchair access via the lift.

Timings:

Teaching takes place between 10.30 - 4.30pm, with an hour lunch break.
Please aim to arrive 5 min early.

Class content breakdown : 

DAY ONE:

• Introduction to straw, how to prepare it and the tools needed.

• Workshops creating elements to use for the embellishment: straw marquetry for sequins; 3D leaf / petal shapes

• Starting to stitch: creating 3 types of flowers mixing straw and beading to create petals.

DAY TWO:

• Re-thinking embroidery stitches: Pekinese stitch & threaded running stitch, using straw ribbons and thread.

• Goldwork through the medium of straw : working over felt and cane padding to create traditional goldwork like textures.

DAY THREE:

• Creating an embellished acorn: straw plaiting and stitching in 3D.

Note: both natural and dyed straw will be used throughout the class, as well as PVA glue. Although I have never experienced allergic reactions, please do not hesitate to contact me if having a topical reaction is a concern you have, or for any other question - clairedewaard.contact@gmail.com

Cancellation policy: if you are unable to attend, please cancel up to 10 days prior to the first day of your class. You can choose to either be refunded or booked onto another date, availability depending.