Pin Cushions

This masterclass will focus on Jessie’s signature style of fine hand embroidery, combined with patching and appliqué techniques. We will explore several stitches, including couching, running, stem, seed and back stitch. Hand-stitched text will also be included.
 
Jessie will direct you both as a group and individually, as she encourages you, the maker, to go forth and create your own stitched and patched pin cushions in her signature style.
 
The masterclass will start with a short talk by, Jessie. She will also show you a selection of her original art works to inspire you. There will be time for your questions at this stage.
 
The main focus of this masterclass is to create a beautiful, one-off stitched memento. The kit you will be given at the start of the class will include a selection of Jessie’s pre-printed pin cushion designs. You can work on just one design during the class or, if you are a speedy crafter, you can enjoy working on several designs.
As a participant of this class, it is vital that you bring a selection of fabrics for backing your pin cushions with (backing fabric is not included in your kit). Select fabrics that can be cut to 20x20cm. Jessie recommends florals and checked designs in cottons or linens. Nothing too thick!
Jessie encourages you to enjoy these creative days without focusing too much on finishing your work. She, suggests thinking of this masterclass as an explorative and peaceful, slow-stitching experience. Allow yourself to embrace and learn new techniques, while being inspired by her original artworks and materials that surround you. Bring your sketchbook and make notes to help you enjoy precious personal time completing your work after this event.
Materials List for Attending Students:
You will be provided with a simple, hand-crafted kit at the start of your masterclass experience, which includes the use of all Jessie’s specialist embroidery threads. The cost of this kit is £15 to be paid to Jessie on the day. However, She will always encourage you, the maker, to create your own “story” as much as possible. To do this, she suggests that you bring along a selection of items from the list below. These can be incorporated into your work, making it more personal:
Favourite sewing tools
An assortment of your favourite embroidery threads
An assortment of odd small fabric scraps for scattered appliqué
Fabric for backing your pin cushions with. Select fabrics that can be cut to 20x20cm. Jessie recommends florals and checked designs in cottons or linens. Nothing too thick!
Other items of personal interest, such as old charms, buttons, vintage lace and ribbons, small keys etc, all of which can be stitched into your work
Anything you are currently working on that you’d like to share, including your sketchbooks. Jessie is happy to offer advice and hopefully inspire new creative ideas
Bear in mind that pre-loved fabrics and objects will trigger memories and personal narratives. For instance, a snippet from a worn dress, a collar from a favourite shirt, or a patch from your mum’s old curtains can all serve as precious materials with personal associations. So focus on selecting and bringing along items that will evoke a unique narrative for you.