Introduction to Goldwork. My first experience.
This beautiful wreath is my actual first experience working (almost) entirely in gold work and it is also the first project that I do in this technique that it is not self-guided. I had worked with metal threads before, but not to this extension and I had done it all on my own. This was a workshop offered by Clara Stitching and was delivered via live video.
At first, I was hesitant to take the workshop because though it was described as beginner level, to me it looked complicated. I talked to the instructor several times and she assured me that it wasn’t as hard as it seemed plus I told her I had some embroidery experience and since I am literally obsessed with wreaths, I decided to jump in and take it.
This was a good introduction of three techniques common in gold work, namely chipping, couching (which I had done before) and the two needle stitch (for the leaves). This last one was the only time we used cotton floss. We also talked about some of the tools often used in goldwork, such as the mellor or stiletto, different types of needles, as well as the need to have a embroidery hoop stand or clamp, to be able to work with both hands.
The following short videos, show briefly different aspects of this project. While filming some parts, I had sadly set up my camera incorrectly, so I thought it’d be better to split it in two parts. In the first one, I show the final product and talk about some of the materials used. Part II, includes very short clips of the embroidery process. I hope you like them.
The design is composed of a small branch of flowers that is repeated 4 times, therefore there is plenty of practice involved. Though I had a bit slow start, by the time I was on the 3rd branch I had developed a nice rhythm and was able to move faster.
In the workshop description, the instructor specifies that this is an introductory level that will provide the student with the necessary skills to create his or her own projects and to that, I have to agree. I learned a lot about the principles of goldwork and gained the confidence to start my own designs, in fact, I am already working on a small project and I have a few ideas for future ones.
I have seen other goldwork workshops advertised but you know what grabbed me about this one? The design!! Did I already say that I am obsessed with wreaths? So yes, she had me a wreath. Also, I just couldn’t resist to the sparkle and charm of these beautiful metal threads. Seriously, who can?
Overall I think this was a great way to start goldwork as it gave me a solid foundation to its principles without being too overwhelming. You’ll learn just what you need to dust off any fears and to be able to work on your own. However, I have to point that Clara was always available when I approached to her while working on this project and she was very attentive to all my questions.
I hope this makes you excited about trying out goldwork embroidery whether with this or any other project.
As always, please leave a comment to this entry if you’d like to know more details.
Thanks so much for visiting and see you next time.
“Our perfection does not consist of doing extraordinary things, but to do the ordinary well”
