Suitable for: Beginner to Intermediate

Come and join artist Helen Sill for her World Stitch Series. Each three-hour workshop offers an introduction to a distinctive global stitch tradition. You’ll explore its cultural origins, learn key techniques, and create a small, stitched sampler or textile piece to take home. All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed.

18th April: Shisha/Abhla (Mirror Work) – India Abhla work, or Shisha work (from the Hindi word for “little glass”), a traditional Indian embroidery technique that involves stitching small, reflective, or mirror pieces onto fabric, originating from Gujarat and the Kutch region. Learn the art of applying mirrors to cloth. Explore its origins and symbolism before mastering techniques to securely attach small mirrors using decorative stitches. You will create a small shimmering sampler showcasing your mirror work.

2nd May: Sashiko – Moyozashi -Patterns – Japan Explore the beauty and rhythm of Sashiko, the traditional Japanese reinforcement stitch. A traditional Japanese embroidery technique originating from the Edo period, historically used to reinforce, mend, and insulate clothing with durable running stitches. Moyozashi or pattern sashiko produces linear and curved patterns. This session focuses on classic repeating patterns and their symbolism. You’ll practise stitching flowing geometric designs to create your own decorative sampler.

9th May: Folk-Style Embroidery – European – Needle Case Project Inspired by traditional European folk embroidery, this workshop focuses on decorative motifs and simple surface stitches applied to a practical object. You’ll create and embroider your own small needle case, combining folk-style pattern, colour, and functional design.

23rd May: Doodle Stitch – Contemporary Practice A playful and mindful approach to embroidery, Doodle Stitch encourages intuitive, daily mark-making with thread. Inspired by slow stitch and sketchbook practices, you’ll experiment with line, repetition, and pattern to begin your own stitched calendar or daily practice sampler.