The RSN Embroidery Studio was approached by the Worshipful Company of Upholders to project manage an ambitious community embroidery project celebrating the 400th anniversary of the granting of the Livery Company’s Royal Charter.
Designed by artist Aidan Hart, the embroidery draws on the rich tradition of medieval English embroidery, including Opus Anglicanum techniques and the Bayeux Stitch. The design incorporates a variety of traditional techniques, including underside couching in both metal thread and coloured silks, couching, couched diaper patterns, stem stitch and split stitch.
The project brought together Fine Cell Work and volunteer Broderers from 12 cathedrals across the UK, creating an opportunity for stitchers from different communities to contribute to one large, collaborative piece of embroidery.
To support the teams, the RSN gave online training sessions for the team leaders, covering the key techniques required for the project. Each group also received a visit from a member of the RSN Studio team, providing an opportunity for practical guidance and support.
Once the colours, materials and threads had been confirmed, we prepared fabric and thread training packs for each group, alongside panel kits containing stitch plans and project timelines. As each section was completed, it was reviewed and signed off by the RSN Studio before the teams progressed to the next stage. This helped to maintain consistency across the 12 panels while encouraging a steady pace of work throughout the project.
Monthly online meetings brought the teams together to share their progress, ask questions and get to know the other groups taking part. These sessions helped create a strong sense of community throughout what was a truly collaborative project.
The construction of the completed panels was overseen by the RSN. Members of the Cathedral groups then travelled to the RSN Studio to help assemble the final pieces alongside the Studio team. Once construction was complete, the RSN mounted the finished panel onto conservation-grade board, ready for framing.
This has been a fantastic project for everyone involved, and we are incredibly proud of all the volunteers and the work they have achieved. Bringing the volunteer Broderers into the Studio to help construct the final pieces was a particularly special way to bring the project to a close.
