Native Meadow and Grassland Sampler with Natalie Rowe

This sampler project is inspired by Britain’s meadow and grassland habitats, which are home to a variety of native flora and invertebrate species. The complex web of relationships between the plants and insects that this unique environment supports provides a diverse array of colours, textures and forms to explore in embroidery.
 
The class will cover embroidery stitches, including stem stitch, chain stitch, back stitch, laid work, buttonhole stitch, fly stitch and French knots. First, you will combine these stitches to fill the central motif of a common-rock rose. Then you will fill the remainder of the sampler as you wish, drawing inspiration from the tradition of samplers and embroidery pattern books as a way of learning and exploring embroidery techniques. A pattern book of further motifs will be provided to allow you to develop your own design. Alternatively, you can use your own drawings to create a more personalised sampler. 

After covering the basic stitches, there will be an opportunity within the class to experiment with the variety of ways they can be used to create different effects. The accompanying instruction booklet and pattern book are designed to assist you in adding to your sampler after the class, building your confidence as you progress from simpler motifs to more detailed images in this relaxing stitching project.

The kit includes an off-white linen fabric, printed with the central design, in addition to a collection of stranded cotton and wool threads in a wide range of colours. The placement of these threads is up to the stitcher, enabling you to develop your own unique sampler.  

This class is suitable for beginners and stitchers of all levels. The tuition will provide an introduction to embroidery stitches, as well as guidance for those wishing to develop skills in embroidery design and composition.