Learn to create a botanical artwork using an embroidery technique called couching. Lora will teach you the broad variety of ways you can use this technique to create unique and beautiful artworks inspired by nature.

Course description

In this weekend workshop you will learn about the broad range of finishes that can be achieved with one simple embroidery technique called couching. Lora will guide you through how the materials you use can influence the outcome of your work.

On the first evening you will have an introduction to Lora’s work and practice. On the Saturday you will have an opportunity to create a sampler, using a variety of fabrics, this is a chance to see the breadth of the technique, and experiment with different materials. You will then look at the process of creating a design, inspired by the flowers in West Dean Gardens, first drawing from life and then using those drawings to create your design. The remainder of the workshop will be translating your design into stitch, using the samples you made at the start to inform your work. At the end of the weekend you will have a piece of art work to take home, which can be framed or made into a wall hanging. You will come away with a collection of samples to reference in the future, and an understanding of how to design for this specific stitch technique.