Residential Two Day Free Machining Workshop

All workshops take place in my garden studio

Learn the art of machine embroidery! In this fun and inspiring two day workshop you will learn how to really make the most of a sewing machine, using it to create a diverse set of samples and images with a range of visual effects, from ‘drawn’ to decorative. You can work from your own images (drawings and/or photos) or from some of mine. As the course is run for no more than 2 people at a time, it can be tailored very much to individual needs and requirements.



By the end of the workshop you will have:



• Learnt how to set up a sewing machine for free machining

• Learnt how to prepare images and fabrics for free machining

• Studied a range of samples for inspiration and understanding

• Watched a range of demonstrations

• Experimented with different ways to add colour to your images: threads, dyes, inks, applique, reverse applique, whip stitch, cording, couching and cutwork

• Understood health and safety issues when free machining

• Created a set of sample images to take home with you

• Eaten a lot of home made (sometimes home grown!) food

• Received a set of technical handouts to support your day’s learning

I have 28 years experience teaching art, textiles, printmaking and illustration in further and adult education, in colleges and privately too, so you can be certain of well structured, well paced and inspiring teaching and learning.

You can use my Pfaff sewing machines, or bring your own if you feel more comfortable with a machine that’s familiar. If you are bringing your own, you just need to check beforehand that you can drop the feed and bring an embroidery foot that fits your machine.

The workshop is run for groups of 2 people on 2 days negotiated with me (can be weekdays or weekend), and is held in my comfortable and cosy garden studio close to Richmond Park and Kingston town centre. The cost for the 2 day workshop, one nights accommodation, lunch on both days and breakfast on the second day is £145 each or if you want to do the course on your own it will cost £260. The costs include materials, refreshments, lunch on both days, one nights accommodation and breakfast on the second day.

Your accommodation is in my house where you have your own living room with TV and radio, one comfortable bedroom with bed that can be configured as a double or twin beds, your own toilet and use of a shared bathroom. There is a multitude of eating options close by for the evening, all within 15 minute walking distance of the house and studio.

All workshops take place in my garden studio