Sculptural goldwork Crafting the frames of the National Gallery
| Location: The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN | |
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Techniques: Goldwork, Hand Beading, Appliqué |
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Duration: Three weekly sessions. Thursday the 5th 12th and 19th of November - 11am-5pm |
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Course Description
Discover the art of goldwork embroidery through the exquisite craftsmanship and intricate ornamentation of the National Gallery’s historic frames.
Delivered in collaboration with the Royal School of Needlework, this three-part course invites you to explore the techniques, textures and decorative details that bring the Gallery’s frames to life. Working from a bespoke design inspired by one of the Gallery’s frames, create your own sculptural goldwork piece while learning a wide range of traditional hand embroidery techniques.
Across three weekly sessions, build your work layer by layer, from professional preparation and traditional design transfer to techniques including passing thread, raised goldwork padding, cloth of gold, pearl purl and couture-inspired embellishment.
Alongside the practical sessions, gain a unique insight into the artistry behind the National Gallery’s frames, including a rare behind-the-scenes visit to the Gallery’s Framing Department.
Suitable for beginners and experienced stitchers alike, this immersive course provides the opportunity to develop new skills, explore historic techniques, and create a unique piece of goldwork. All materials are provided, and you will be able to take your work home between sessions to continue stitching.
Participants must be aged 18 or over.
Tutor Biography
Royal School of Needlework In-House Team
Our embroidery courses are taught by expert hand embroiderers who bring real industry experience into the classroom. All of our tutors have trained with the Royal School of Needlework through our specialist training programmes and many have worked professionally on live embroidery projects for high-profile clients including royalty, leading designers and well-known public figures. This means that when you take an RSN course, you are not only learning embroidery techniques to the high standards we are known for, but also getting a real insight into how these skills are used within a professional embroidery studio. Our tutors are friendly, approachable and genuinely passionate about sharing their skills and knowledge. Whether you are completely new to embroidery or have been stitching for years, they will support you throughout the course and create a welcoming environment that feels really special to be part of.
What you will need to bring
Everything you need to complete your embroidery will be provided as part of the course.
We recommend bringing a notebook and pen to make notes throughout the day, along with any favourite embroidery equipment you like to use, such as your own embroidery scissors or needle threader.
Please note that this course is not held at the Royal School of Needlework’s base at Hampton Court Palace. Before attending, please check the venue information carefully, including any specific access requirements and travel arrangements, and allow plenty of time for your journey.
About the Venue
The National Gallery exists to connect people with great art. For almost two hundred years we have cared for our collection in trust for the nation and encouraged the widest possible access for everyone's education and enjoyment.
Sculptural goldwork Crafting the frames of the National Gallery
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