Location: Hand & Lock School for Embroidery & Creative Arts, 86 Margaret Street, Fitzrovia, London, W1W 8TE
Duration: 2 Day Workshop (10am - 4:30pm each day)

Join us for a special two-day course exploring the art of goldwork embroidery for couture fashion. Working with our expert tutors you will begin by learning the fundamentals of padding and how to build up different areas of relief within your design. You will see how padded foundations create depth and how carefully placed layers can transform a flat motif into a sculptural embroidered surface.

Once you have built your foundations you will be introduced to the specialist metals used in goldwork. You will learn the characteristics of each thread and wire so that you understand exactly how and when to use them. From there you will be taught the highest levels of application with techniques including couching, cutwork and decorative filling.

Over the two days you will create a floral sample inspired by couture fashion embroidery. By the end of the course you will have a strong foundation in padding, metal thread work and finishing techniques giving you the knowledge and confidence to begin using goldwork in your own creative practice.

Important Course Information

- Please check that your email address is correct before ordering.

- Read all of the course description information above and the “How the Course Works” information below before booking.

- All courses are non-refundable. If you cannot attend, please let us know as soon as possible and we will try to move you to another course.

If you have any questions, please check our FAQs page here.

Taught Techniques 

- Padding using felt and soft string 

- Adding cutwork to padding using bullion

- Goldwork techniques - S’ing, chipping, applying gold twist with couching

- Applying spangles and pearls 

What You’ll Need to Provide 

- All materials and tools will be provided - Course kit materials may vary slightly from those shown in sample imagery, however all alternatives are chosen to closely reflect the intended techniques and final results.  

- If you wish you are welcome to bring your own mug for refreshments and your own embroidery kit, though this is completely optional and not required.