Learn to create a three-dimensional, layered Enchanted Forest and rolling landscape by planned withdrawal of weft threads, so that some trees lie on top, others behind!  This class explores planned thread removal, re-weaving and wrapping and a variety of raised embroidery techniques to give a wonderfully three-dimensional effect using over dyed fibers.  Students will also learn to custom-cut and paint the acid-free foam core opening through which the forest is viewed and the trees multiplied when a mirror (not included) is mounted behind. 

This piece is worked on 30 count linen which is hand dyed to enhance the forest colors. The design area is approximately 7” X 12”. The forest is worked in over dyed DMC® Medici wool and custom dyed flower thread; over dyed cotton embroidery floss is used for accent flowers and perle cotton or Medici wool for the sheep. Participants will learn basic skills in stitching with over dyed fibers.

A 2 day class is for intermediate level students. Students will need to supply an 18” wide scroll frame for class (mandatory).

Create a three-dimensional,  layered “Perfect Forest” and rolling landscape  so that some trees lie on top, others behind. This class explores planned thread removal with an emphasis on the re-weaving of side margins to make a perfectly finished edge to the opening. The class explores wrapping and weaving exposed weft threads to make trunks and a variety of raised embroidery techniques to give a wonderfully three-dimensional effect using over dyed fibers.  Class time will also be spent custom-cutting and painting the acid-free foam core opening through which the forest is viewed and the trees multiplied when a mirror (not included) is mounted behind. (The piece must be worked on a scroll frame.)

A 2 day class.

Students will need to supply an 18” wide scroll frame for class (mandatory).   

Learn to create a three-dimensional, layered “Autumn Forest” and rolling landscape by withdrawing weft threads, so that some trees lie on top, others behind!  In addition, some trees will be “planted” on the surface of the linen with roots growing over the edge of the framed piece and other trees are positioned on the reverse of the foam core to add depth and distance to this wonderful landscape. This class explores planned thread removal, re-weaving and wrapping and a  variety of raised embroidery techniques to give a wonderfully three-dimensional effect using over dyed threads. Students will also learn to custom-cut and paint the acid-free core opening through which the forest is viewed. A lovely and delicate reversible embroidered quilt blows in the breeze and hangs from a clothes line commemorating the 9/11 disaster - in patriotic colors.

This piece is worked on hand dyed linen to enhance the forest colors. The design area is approximately 7 1/2” X 9 1/2”. The forest is worked in over dyed DMCÒ Medici wool and custom dyed flower thread. Custom over dyed DMC Mouline cotton embroidery floss is used for accent flowers and the quilt. Participants will learn basic skills in stitching with over dyed fibers.

A 2 day class is for intermediate/advanced students.

Students will need to supply an 18” wide scroll frame for class (mandatory).   

A fascinating world of contemporary drawn thread embroidery lies beyond the traditional methods of drawn thread work which is characterized by the cutting or withdrawing of threads on canvas, linen fabric or virtually any ground fabric; traditionally, drawn thread work involved removing threads to make an open area, securing the edges and filling the open areas with needle weaving, twisting, tying, knotting, thrown bars or wrappings (or combinations of these).

These charming, but elegant pins, measuring a mere 2” X 2”,  were made by cutting and withdrawing both warp and weft threads in random patterns on 14 count linen canvas, so that a complex matrix of layers emerged. The layers are enhanced and further separated by wrapping, weaving, and buttonholing the remaining threads which lie on the same planes. Beads, buttons, charms and a variety of variegated fibers can add dimension and interest to these lovely lapel pins. The pins were finished with a buttonhole stitch which secured the edges neatly. A threaded needle or corsage pin serves as an attaching device and accents the custom made uniqueness of each piece.

A 1/2 - 1 day class for all levels.

 Hem Stitch and Drawn Thread Bookmarks: Fast, Easy & Fun!

Come and learn to make a beautiful bookmark which has woven open areas where the linen threads have been cut and removed (Not to worry…the cutting is easy!). Each bookmark has a folded hem stitched top and a fringed hem stitched edge at the bottom. This is an introductory class in hem stitching and drawn thread work incorporating drawn thread needle weaving and wrapping to add beautiful color using over dyed threads. These make lovely gifts for children to encourage reading and are worked up quickly! Students will select a thread palette of their favorite colors from Catherine’s collection to work their bookmark on Zweigart’s 16 count linen stitchband.

2-3 hours for all levels