Previous Workshops
... since 2021
Make Your Own Adventure in Hardanger and Pulled Thread
with Kim Beamish
A class for beginner to advanced embroiderers examining the beautiful whitework techniques of Hardanger (Norwegian cut-work) and Pulled Thread.
Kim, an expert in many needlework techniques and an internationally renowned embroidery teacher and designer, will travel from Ontario to spend two days with us immersed in the world of whitework. She has designed two delightful pieces especially for us. Each design will provide ample opportunity to study and experiment with both Pulled Thread and Hardanger.
(Image is a sample to inspire you!)
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Temari Balls with Instructor Kit Gates
In this course we wrapped two balls, divided them, and stitched two
basic designs on them (as pictured).
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We looked at some history and traditions of Temari, the possibilities for other bases for Temari, and a selection of additional divisions and patterns.
Victorian Style Beaded Ornament Covers
with Elizabeth Bonnett
Our impression of Victorian middle and upper class life was that it was one of opulence, with detailed decoration, as seen in the creations of Tiffany and Morris. Victorian ladies, with time on their hands, would try to emulate these styles in their handiwork: needlework, embroidery, clothing embellishments ... expanding into the decor of their homes: tassel pulls for draperies, swags, lampshades, and decorations for Christmas trees.
The trees themselves were brought to England by Prince Albert, and blown glass ball ornaments came from Germany at that time. Victorian ladies, experienced in adding bead fringes to shawls, necklines, and reticules, naturally expanded their repertoires to include little coats of lace and/or beads for the less ornate glass balls.
Students will create 2 ornaments in this workshop, as they learn several needle-weaving techniques that they will later be able to adapt/combine to create their own designs, as well as use to embellish other items:
* basic stringing
* vertical netting
* ladder stitch
​KAGA YUBINUKI
with Kathryn Drummond (WEG)
Yubinuki is the Japanese word for thimble. In the rest of the world, the word yubinuki usually refers to the particular type of thimble made from paper and silk that originated in the Kaga region of Japan. These beautiful thimbles were made by seamstresses using silk leftover from their work sewing kimono. Traditionally, the thimbles were made during the first three days of the year using colors and patterns that were thought to bring luck and repel evil. Over time, the simple, functional, lacy looking rings from the 15th century became more elaborate and are now completely covered with intricate patterns in thread. Yubinuki are traditionally worn on the middle finger of the working hand, between the first and second knuckles. In this class, we will learn the basics of yubinuki and make two or three rings. Kits will contain all the supplies needed to make three yubinuki, with a few color choices for each one.
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An Introduction to Brazilian Embroidery
Darlene Clifford, Regina Stitchery Guild
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Plan to join us for this exciting workshop introducing the use of exquisite Brazilian threads. Brazilian threads, made from rayon, give every project a beautiful, silky shine, but the threads can be tricky to work with. In this class we will learn how to “wrangle” the threads while executing lovely flower stitches such as Knotted Lazy Daisy, Cast-On Flower, and Rolled Rose along with several kinds of Stem Stitches. You will create this lovely image which can be made up into a needle book, used as a card insert, or framed as a picture
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Introduction to Silk Ribbon Embroidery
Carolee Chapman and Ricky Chestnut, Instructors (WEG)
Students will create a beautiful silk garden using the instructions provided. They may configure the garden as presented or place the flowers in their own design.
Introduction to Goldwork
Natalie Dupuis, Instructor
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WEG is delighted to engage Natalie Dupuis – an exquisite designer and excellent teacher from Montreal – to present an Introduction to Goldwork workshop. A classroom teacher by profession, Natalie has married her love of teaching with her passion for needlework and now designs and teaches metal work and surface embroidery. She has studied at the Royal School of Needlework and with a variety of teachers at national seminars. She has taught at the San Francisco School of Needlework, a number of EAC/ACB Seminars, and will soon teach for EGA and The Crewel Work Company. Her designs have been widely published in needlework magazines, including Inspirations, Embroidery Canada.
Natalie will be teaching three pieces simultaneously – students will choose one of “Taking My Time” (beginner), “A is for Apple” (beginner/intermediate), or “The 3½ Point Blanket” (beginner/intermediate).
Two-Needle Pyramid Ornament
Kit Gates, Instructor (WEG)
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Students will be working on interlock canvas. The thread should be strong, eg. #8 perle cotton (or similar weight), #8 braid, and Neon Rays. Two or three colours are all that is needed (one for the background and two for the “pyramids”.
One main canvas stitch is covered in each class along with the finishing technique. There will be homework between the two classes.
