Contemporary Embroidery & Stitch Art (TE109 Spring)

This course will introduce you to the art of contemporary embroidery and stitch art. You will be guided through the many ways contemporary embroidery can be interpreted, stylized and used in stitch art.

What will you learn on this course?

On this course you will learn the different stitch techniques and materials used in contemporary embroidery and stitch art. The aim of this course is to inspire you to learn new skills and techniques of capturing different themes though embroidery and textiles. You will be able to develop your own individual style and approach with confidence.

This course allows you to learn to draw with a sewing needle, experiment with threads and trimmings, be creative with colour and print/dye your own fabrics.

This course will cover the following materials including;
•    Embroidery floss/ Threads/ Yarns
•    Wool
•    Needles/Hoops
•    Fabrics
•    Trimmings/Embellishments
•    Fusible web/ Interfacing
•    Fabric Paints
•    Natural dyes/ Dyes
•    Foils

And specific techniques including;
•    Hand embroidery
•    Embroidery stitches
•    Use a sketchbook to record research, generate original ideas, samples of stitches, fabrics/ printed fabrics.
•    Composition
•    Appliqué/ Reverse appliqué
•    Screen printing using stencils
•    Printing using stencils, paste resist, mark making
•    Dyeing your own fabrics, natural, transfer dyes
•    Foiling

You will learn how to use new techniques and materials through tutor demonstrations and examples to give you ideas and inspiration. You will be given the time to explore, learn and practice them at your own level of experience to achieve your personal aims. You will be guided by your tutor at every stage to inspire you and to help develop your skills further.

As you progress on this course you will bring your research, design ideas and the techniques you have learnt together to work towards making original artwork.

You will be encouraged at the end of each class to look and discuss your work with each other and to see how each of you have interpreted through style and techniques.

On completion of this course you can expect to have gained the skills and confidence to use hand embroidery to create stitch art. You will have produced a finished piece of artwork along with a sketchbook full of research, images, stitch samples, fabric samples. You will have enjoyed working with a friendly group of like-minded people in a calm and relaxing class.

Previous students have made wall hangings, cushions, bags, framed artwork, lampshades, artist books and much more.

Each term the tutor changes the course content, the theme, materials and techniques. This makes learning contemporary embroidery and stitch art exciting for new students and further developing the skills of those returning.

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for adults aged 18+ years. It is open to both beginners who have no sewing experience, and to improvers who are looking to develop their technical skills and inspire their creativity.  

At the heart of MAC is a focus on accessibility and inclusion. Please contact us to discuss your specific access needs. The room is wheelchair accessible. A personal assistant or companion must book a complimentary ticket if attending to provide support.

Do you need to bring anything?

Please bring a sketchbook for the beginning of the course. A selection of essential equipment, including sewing machines, will be available for you to use. However, we encourage you to bring your own basic sewing kit, including hand sewing needles, embroidery threads, and fabrics.

Are there any additional costs?

There are no additional costs.

Who teaches this course?

Lisa Broughton