The Radiant Heart with Axelle Faes-Cortes

This five-day tambour beading course offers a comprehensive introduction to the techniques used in couture embroidery ateliers. Beginning with the foundations of tambour embroidery, you will learn how to frame fabric using industry methods and develop confidence working with the tambour hook before progressing to beads, sequins and more advanced decorative techniques. Throughout the course, you will explore chain stitch in all directions, including curves, corners and angles, while working with a variety of materials including cotton, metallic and fil à gant threads. You will then build upon these foundations by learning how to apply seed beads, bugle beads, sequins, crystals and other embellishments using tambour techniques. As the course progresses, you will be introduced to decorative stitches and filling techniques, including pulling stitches and zig zag variations used in contemporary couture embroidery. Over the final two days, you will bring together the skills learned throughout the course to create the Radiant Heart design, applying beads, sequins, crystals and embroidered details to complete a finished piece. By the end of the workshop, you will have gained a strong understanding of tambour embroidery techniques and the confidence to continue exploring this distinctive form of couture embellishment. All materials required to complete the project will be provided. Please bring a notebook and pen if you would like to make notes throughout the course. You are also welcome to film demonstrations for your own personal reference and practice after the workshop.