Workshops
WORKSHOPS
These are held in person in my studio at Cockpit Bloomsbury, London - a 10min walk from Holborn, Chancery Lane, or Russell Square station. Places are limited to 4 participants so to get the best tuition in an intimate setting.
Two formats offered :
Over the course of a weekend, create your own beetle brooch using specialist goldwork materials and a combination of wheat and rye straw. You will be guided through creating the padding, preparing and stitching the straw and forming all 3D elements.
£195 for 2 days.Once a week for 3 weeks, this workshop will aim to teach you all aspects of straw embroidery through a sampler. This will include preparing the straw, shaping 3D elements, re-interpreting traditional goldwork techniques through the medium, and borrowing marquetry skills for embellishment.
£275 for 3 days.
All materials provided. Everyone is welcome, however I would recommend some basic sewing knowledge such as starting / finishing a thread and threading a needle, so you can focus on how to work with the medium.
See you soon in the studio!
Learn in the studio 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, this 2 day workshop will allow you to create your own embellished
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.
£195 for two 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.
Choosing your materials and beetle template, before transferring the design
Creating the padding
Working the straw.
DAY TWO:
Goldwork touches: a quick introduction to working with metal threads before stitching
3D legs
Finish off the beetle: cutting, lining and mounting to create a finished item.
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.
Please feel free to email me with any question you might have at clairedewaard.contact@gmail.com.