A workshop in free-motion embroidery. Basic sewing machine skills are required.
Free-motion embroidery is a useful core skill for Textile Artists, Quilters and Felters. It can also be used to embellish clothing to create totally unique fashion. You may also know it as Free-machine embroidery, or free-hand machine embroidery. No ‘drawing’ experience is necessary and you can use a basic sewing machine. It doesn’t have to be an expensive or ‘fancy’ one.
This workshop will teach you the techniques of free-motion embroidery: • setting up the machine for free-motion embroidery • guiding the needle to draw with thread • how to obtain a variety of textures and stitch effects • use of fabric stabilisers • the afternoon project will help you practice, to create a small stitched picture.
All materials and sewing machines are provided or you can bring your own machine. But if you do, please remember to bring the power cable/foot control and the instructions. Also you will need a darning foot and a few bobbins. (You should only use bobbins that are made for your specific make and model of machine.) I recommend using size 90 or 100topstitch needles.
Free-Motion involves running the machine at fast speeds for long periods of time. So please make sure your machine is well-maintained.
Craft Warning: Described by Kirstie Allsopp as ‘the crack-cocaine of craft’. Free-motion machine embroidery can be seriously addictive!