3-Hour workshop

Join Ruth and enjoy the rhythm of free-motion embroidery to create a beautiful botanical-inspired 20cm lampshade.

You will stitch onto sumptuous linen fabric and explore a variety of techniques that Ruth uses in her own textile art. There will be plenty of advice given, to help build your confidence and enable you to create a piece to display in your home with pride.

You’ll receive a full kit, including a lampshade kit sponsored by Dannells, gorgeous fabric for appliqué, and a range of sewing threads to complete your project.

The workshop will begin with a few exercises to help you to become familiar with the sewing machine and boost your confidence

You will then make a rough plan on a piece of paper, showing which shapes, you’d like to use in your design and where they will be placed.

Under Ruth’s guidance you will:
•    Learn how certain colours can be used to create the illusion of space and depth in your work.

•    Work with free motion embroidery techniques, to help create interesting botanical shapes and patterns
•    Stitch your design onto the linen fabric
•    Decide on fabrics to use for the appliqué elements of your design
•    Cut out and iron the appliqué shapes onto your design
•    Continue to add more free-motion embroidery over the appliqué shapes

NOTE: It is possible that you may not complete your entire lampshade during the workshop, although you will leave with your design well underway, the confidence to continue at home and the skills to enjoy free-motion embroidery in your own time.

Ruth will give guidance on putting together your lampshade. Full instructions are however provided in the kit, should you wish to complete the construction at home.

Half-day Academy Masterclass tickets also include: 

A complimentary entry ticket for you to visit the main shows on Saturday afternoon, plus all equipment, materials and consumables, as described.

Advisory Note: 
Suitable for over 16’s only, some sewing experience is recommended.

Meet the Tutor
Ruth Parkinson-Johns

Ruth works from her garden studio on the edge of the Cotswolds, creating unique textile artworks using dyed, painted, and printed cloth. Her pieces are further enriched with free-motion stitching and hand embroidery, adding depth, texture, and narrative.
Inspired by the surrounding landscape, flowers, ever-changing weather, and the beauty of the ocean, Ruth seeks to capture the essence of her imagination. She works intuitively, drawing from observation, memory, and imagination to develop expressive and evocative textiles.

Alongside her practice as an artist, Ruth is a dedicated educator. She teaches recreational and accredited City & Guilds courses, demonstrates at a range of events, and delivers tailored workshops for art and textile groups.