I know I don't normally post on the weekends, but I think we may be going away tomorrow so I thought I'd put this out there tonight and see if you would be willing to give me some help/feedback.
I have been asked to teach a class in embroidery for our local quilt guild and I'm looking for ideas. I have to assume that the majority of the ladies have never embroidered before so I will definitely be dealing with beginners.
So....if you were taking a beginners embroidery class what would you expect/want to learn?
Any and all suggestions will be gratefully received!! TIA.
Basic stitches with "traditional" projects,but show how contemporary the use can be as well.
ReplyDeleteNever embroidered? The basic stitches and how to use them. In other words, various ways to use them. Also, and this is VERY important, how to begin and how to end!
ReplyDeleteHow to transfer a pattern too.
I'd probably like to be presented with a kit containing the fabric, correct size needle for it, and threads, yarn or floss, whatever is appropriate and design on separate paper.
ReplyDeleteI'd like it to be a small project, preferably one that needs to be constructed, too, such as a needlecase or something with an embroidered outer cover. And I'd like to learn perhaps three stitches at the first class, with big clear diagrams or pix of them in action. And a completed sample to study in class would be great. And I'd like to be invited to take the class with you!
I would like to learn all the stitches and get some practice making them. Learning about different floss, fabrics, and needles would be helpful. A small and quick project, like an embroidered pin cushion would be perfect to learn techniques and it could be completed to take home that same day! Hope this helps!
ReplyDeleteTypes of needles. when to use a blunt point and when to use a sharp point.
ReplyDeleteSamples of different embroidery threads.
How to separate stranded DMC thread.
Purpose and how to use waste canvas.
Use of embroidery hoop/frame.
Suggest a piece of fabric to be used by student as a sampler of simple stitches you will be demonstrating.
Good Luck!
I think that you'd want to have a finished project at the end of the class, or at least have the info to get it done. Maybe embroider a pillowcase or something else that's pre-sewn just in case the pupils don't know how to sew yet. I'd imagine that they would want to learn some basic stitches: stem stitch (so that they can later do redwork), chain stitch, daisy stitch, satin stitch, buttonhole stitch (for applique or edges), french knots. I can't think of anything else. Maybe offer two different design options but make sure they both use the same stitches. Have fun!!!
ReplyDeleteI am thinking they asked you because they have seen your beautiful crazy quilt work. So, some seam treatments would be in order. Aren't there about 12 basic stitches...buttonhole, chain, backstitch, stem... Maybe a small sampler would be nice.
ReplyDeletexo,
Deb
I taught an embroidery lesson to fashion design students at our local university. All I had was an hour or two and it wasn't easy as people worked at different speeds and comprehension.
ReplyDeleteHow long do you have? That's the first consideration. Then, which stitches do you think are easiest, but give big bang. I taught the feather stitch and fly stitch, chain stitch and lazy daisy, french knot and pistol stitch. That's as far as we got.
If you have several evenings, you'll be able to teach much more. Also, you are likely to have students who _want_ to be there and learn.
I would have liked to have a powerpoint to display the stitch instructions clearly and largely. Many students didn't understand the handouts I had.
Hope that helps.
Heather M.
Hello Mary Anne
ReplyDeleteI basically started embroidery only a couple of years ago by joining the guild.
They had a six week class covering the basic stitches on different pieces of linen.
A better idea I feel would be to make a needle case or some other small item incorporating the basic stitches.
I would have preferred to come away with one finished item!
One class covered fabrics to use and we were given a set of needles and a note of what each one is used for.
I hope this is of some help to you MA.
You will make the perfect teacher - I wish you lived near me!!!
Hugs
Shane
I have to agree with everyone else MA. Basic stitches: Stem stitch, french knot, cross stitch, back stitch and so on.
ReplyDelete