Laurelin
"Hummingbird" Silk Shading and Goldwork Online Embroidery Class - August 2023
"Hummingbird" Silk Shading and Goldwork Online Embroidery Class - August 2023
Couldn't load pickup availability
13th, 20th August and 3rd, 10th September 2023
10.00am to 12.30pm (BST)
Join me online for four mornings, to explore the art of silk shading and goldwork.
During this class we will create a beautiful hummingbird, using lots of lovely silk threads and sparkly gold techniques. I will demonstrate the techniques, and there will be plenty of time for discussion and practice.
This design includes:
felt padding
satin stitch
silk shading (long and short stitch)
'basic' couching with textured metal threads
decorative coloured couching with smooth metal threads
invisibly couching twisted metal thread
couching pearl purl wire
chipping
I will send you a kit (included in the price) in time for the class, with all the threads, needles and fabric you need.
You will need an 8-10 inch hoop (one you can use 'hands-free' like this is ideal) or slate frame and sharp, narrow bladed scissors (these or these are good). UK and EU students might like to add a block of beeswax to their order (students from other parts of the world may prefer to source this locally due to customs regulations).
Places on this class are limited to ensure I have enough time to help everyone individually.
I run my online classes on Zoom. To join the class, you will need either a computer or a mobile device equipped with a webcam, microphone and speakers. Almost all modern laptop computers and mobile devices have these built in, but if you have a desktop computer please check that you have these available. Some people report better sound when using headphones, especially if your space isn't quiet. You will need a decent internet connection to maintain the link, but if your connection should fail briefly you will be able to come back in to class as soon as it resumes. A few days before the class, I will send an email with joining instructions and how to test Zoom on your device.
Videos of the sessions will be made available to allow you to continue in your own time, and I give email support between sessions and after the class.
I also like to create a WhatsApp group for students to keep in touch between sessions, which can be a source of encouragement and support from your peers as well as myself.
I have always felt it is so important to be able to stitch in a comfortable, friendly environment and I'm proud to say that my online classes have proved to have just as lovely an atmosphere. You can be sure of a fun, relaxed time alongside detailed, informative tuition.
This class is for you if you have done some a little goldwork or silk shading and want to enhance your skills and combine gold with silk. It will be helpful to have tried simple silk shading before, but confident beginners often have no trouble picking it up.
I will make suggestions of 'homework' between sessions. After the first session, there will be a bit of essential work, but after that I have allowed for each technique to be tried separately as much as possible, so that you don't have to keep up (I know life is busy).
A little background on the techniques:
The word ‘goldwork’ is used to describe embroidery with metal threads and wires, even if they are not gold! This technique has a long history all over the world; originally reserved for items of state and ceremony, now it can be enjoyed by everyone.
Some threads are stitched over to secure them to the fabric, others are cut and stitched through - like beads. Goldwork can be worked over lots of padding to create a very raised effect. Learn more here.
'Silk shading' refers to the use of long and short stitch with silk (and sometimes other threads) to create a motif with varied shades or colours. Learn more here.
When these techniques are combined, they create a beautiful result! The two have been used to enhance one another for as long as the threads have existed, around the world.
You might also like:
