EGA Group Correspondence Courses

Group Correspondence Course Listings
Courses are available to Groups or Individuals

NEW COURSES

Blue Heaven: Temari II (Teacher: Barbara Suess)

This second EGA group correspondence course on Japanese temari focuses on the favorite stitch of many temari makers – the kiku herringbone stitch (uwagake chidori kagari). This classic variation on the herringbone is unique to the art of temari. You’ll learn detailed tips on how to perfect it while creating two stellar designs! The first project, Baby Blue, is a good one for experienced beginners. An elegant six-point star is stitched on each pole of this simple 12-division ball. You’ll learn to layer two kiku herringbone designs to create an eye-catching obi decoration. The second project, Big Blue Heaven, is stitched on a combination 8-division temari and is intended for intermediate level temari makers. This larger temari has interlocked kiku herringbone designs around the equator and four-point stars stitched on the north and south poles. Add pine needle stitching to complete this exciting and intricate looking design.  Students are given access to an online slideshow of instructional photos for extra support.

Project: Two Japanese Temari Balls
Size: 10.5” (27 cm) circumference ball and 13” (33 cm) circumference ball
Threads: sewing thread for wrapping, Nordic Gold (Rainbow Gallery) or Kreinik #8 Braid for marking, DMC® #5 pearl cotton for stitching.
Colors: Blues, variegated teal shades, and white
Skill Level: Advanced beginner to intermediate
Prerequisites: Be able to make a round ball and accurately mark a simple 8-division
Time: 4 meetings, 4 months
Text: $40 per student, 82 pages, 7 pages full color, spiral bound with clear cover, filled with professional quality diagrams contains complete directions.
Supplies (approximate): $18 for suggested threads and other supplies

Floral Whimsy (Teacher: Peggy Wright)

You can almost smell the fragrance of this flower with its life-sized petals. You will add realism to the flower by creating stumpwork petals with bead embroidery. The wire on the outside of the petals makes them dimensional. You will combine five petals to create the flower, attaching them to a metal screen. As always, color is an important element in my work, and the bead embroidery uses gradation to make the flower more lifelike. You will learn basic color theory and several techniques for the bead embroidery.

You will dress the necklace up using Swarovksi crystals or dress it down using simple buttons. Working in tubular peyote stitch, you frame either choice in a bezel, adding one crystal or button to the center of the flower and using the other for the clasp. Finally, you will learn spiral rope to create a vine-like neckpiece that allows the elegant flower to adorn your neck and makes the necklace a piece of wearable art. 

Project: One Floral Whimsy necklace
Beads & Threads: Japanese 14 o regular seed beads; Japanese  11 o cylinder beads; Swarovski rivolis or buttons; various sizes  and shapes of crystals or other beads for the neckpiece; 24- gauge coated copper wire; fabric; fusible web; ultrasuede or other heavy fabric; 30 x 40mm perforated oval wiring screen;  fabric glue; Silamide or Nymo and Fireline; optional 6 o  regular seed beads for exercise
Colors: Student’s choice; class covers color theory and use of color schemes
Skill Level: Advanced beginner with experience with peyote stitch
Prerequisite: Experience with peyote stitch
Time: Within six months, seven or eight meetings; two or three for Lesson 1; one each for Lessons 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $38 per student; 76 pages, including nine pages with color graphics; spiral bound

Mark and Paint on Canvas and Fabric (Teacher: Laura Smith)

Do you have a drawing or photo that you’d like to make into an embroidered design?  In this class, you will mark and paint one design onto needlepoint canvas and one onto silk fabric.  Step-by-step instructions are given for painting with acrylic paint and fabric paint or dye (including using resist).  The importance of using markers and paint that conform to archival quality standards for fabrics is emphasized.  An appendix gives details about specific products and sources.  Students may use the three provided designs, but are encouraged to create their own.  The annotated bibliography includes design and drawing books, but this class will not teach drawing per se.  The goal of this course is for students to feel confident and competent to transfer designs to fabric or canvas with markers and paint.  After you complete the course, the text becomes a reference manual that you’ll use over and over again. Students are encouraged to work in groups to share supplies, but the course may be taken by individuals.

Project:  Two drawn and painted designs, one on needlepoint canvas and one on silk fabric
Size:  Student’s choice
Fabric:  Needlepoint canvas, silk
Threads and Colors:  Student’s choice (no stitching instructions are included)
Skill level:  All
Prerequisites:  None
Time:  One preliminary meeting to gather supplies, 3 working meetings, and one turn-in session
Fee: $150 per group
Text:  $32 per student, 65 pages comb bound with 40 color photographs and 3 design diagrams
Supplies:  (approximate) $30 depending on choice of supplies/ground fabric and number of students sharing paint, etc.

How To’s of Swedish Naversom (Teacher:  Phyllis Maurer)

Naversom is a seldom seen form of Swedish needlework.  It is also called “Birch Bark Weaving”, taking its name from the frame originally used to support the work.  The lacy appearance and geometric nature of the designs will remind many embroiderers of Hardanger, but Naversom is created in a distinctly different manner. Withdrawing threads from the ground cloth creates the stitching grid.  Naversom uses only four stitches to create a wide variety of designs.  Two of the stitches (darning and diagonal) use a heavier weight thread, while the remaining two (goose-eye and ground) are created with finer threads. 

The practice doily and coaster will provide an in-depth exposure to this technique.  Traditional materials and colors are used for the practice coaster, while the student may select alternate materials for the doily. This technique is one that provides great versatility, and is easily adapted to many original designs.  An extended description is provided on my website:  www.ethnicfiberart.com

Project: Doily and Practice Coaster
Size: 5 ¾” x 5 ¾” (Doily) and 4” x 4” (Coaster)
Fabric: 35-Count linen
Threads: 16/2 Rainbow Linen and 50/3 Londenderry Linen 
Colors: Beige and Ecru on Ecru (Doily) and Ecru on Ecru (Coaster)
Skill level: Advanced beginner
Prerequisites: Willingness to try something new
Time: Six months - Required number of meetings is left to discretion of the group.
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $40.00 per student, 67 pages, spiral bound, color photocopies (3)
Supplies (approximate): $40.00

Brazilian Embroidery Purse (Teacher: Ganet Burr)

This Brazilian Embroidery project is an introduction to the techniques used in Brazilian Embroidery. Use of the threads is discussed with hints on ways to use the threads to create interesting effects. Basic as well as familiar stitches are used, such as stem stitches, satin stitches and French knots. Some less familiar stitches such as bullions, cast-ons and double cast-ons are used in this project. You will learn how to use three needles with a double cast-on stitch to create a lovely flower petal. I hope you will love stitching this piece and have a lovely bag for your needlework collection.

Project: Small clutch purse
Size: approximately 5” x 9”
Fabric: Linen Twill
Colors: Assorted rose, lavender, and blue flowers on off white fabric
Threads: Edmar Brazilian Embroidery thread
Skill Level: All Levels
Prerequisites: None
Time: 6 months, with 4 or 5 meetings.
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text Fee: $30.00 – This includes a book of instructions, the pattern, a picture, and postage.
Supplies:  (Approximate) $12.00 to $14.00 for threads, $23.00 for linen twill. 

Chinese Checkers (Teacher: Mimi Selick)

Chinese Checkers was designed for both play and display thus providing many hours of enjoyment. It is worked in a variety of threads and stitches. This piece offers the intermediate stitcher the challenge of a geometric pattern. Like most Chinese Checker boards it has a primary color scheme. The text is complete with explicit illustrations of each stitch and instructions on how to place the different parts of the design as well as the borders. The text also has some history of canvas work as well as several hints to help make your stitching easier. In addition, there are Rules of the Game to guide your play. This board game is a long time family favorite. When completed this framed piece can be used to play Chinese Checkers. Using Lexan™ in place of glass will make it more suitable for playing.

Size: 20” x 20”
Fabric: 18 count mono canvas
Threads: cotton floss, metallics,  and metallic ribbon
Colors: as shown
Skill Level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: some experience with geometric designs
Time: 6 months
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $28.50
Supplies   (approx):   $25.00  Optional kit available includes all threads, template to aid in stitching spirals, playing pieces for $29.50

Dresden Garden (Teacher: Jane Ellen Balzuweit)

Dresden Garden introduces the student to the technique of Dresden Lace, a combination of pulled thread stitches, where fabric threads are distorted to form holes. Flat stitches, reverse herringbone, shadow work, and padded satin stitches will be covered. The difference between pulled thread and Dresden Lace is the fabric on which it is worked. Pulled thread can be worked on any count fabric; however, Dresden is worked on a fine handkerchief linen type fabric. Dresden is always worked with combination stitches, flat stitches and pulled thread stitches with a background of the four-sided stitch. This project can be framed, placed on a box top, used as a ring bearer's pillow or for a guest towel border, to name a few.

Size: 4 1/2" x 3 1/4"
Fabric: Legacy shadow work linen
Thread: Six-strand embroidery floss
Skill: Advanced Intermediate
Prerequisite: knowledge of reading charts, experience with pulled thread
Time: 3 months, 3 lessons
Fee: $150.00
Text: $40.00 spiral bound
Supplies:  (approximate)  less than $10

Lydia’s Necessities (Teacher: Judith Gulick)

Lydia’s Necessities Hardanger course creates either a Reticule and Needle Book to store all your “necessities” and/or a Stitcher’s Angel to guard your threads, ensuring they do not tangle while you sleep. BOTH designs are included in this extensive 33 page, 9 pages in color, text that also includes a brief history of Hardanger plus an extensive Hardanger glossary. A truly portable, stitch-in-hand, fun project, the Hardanger text was written for advanced beginners. Also included is a For Experienced Stitchers Appendix that outlines the following OPTIONAL procedures: resizing the designs, stitching connected needle book or Stitcher’s Angel Wings, cutting kloster square centers, and/or removing threads then weaving bars with dove’s eyes, etc. 

Project: Hardanger Reticule with Needle Book or Stitcher’s Angel
Sizes:  #22 Hardanger fabric: Reticule 9” x 12”, Needle Book 3.5” x 3.5” and Stitcher’s Angel 8.5” tall.
#18 Aida fabric:  Reticule 10” x 14”, Needle Book 4” x 4” and Stitcher’s Angel 9.5” tall.
Fabric: #22 Hardanger, #18 Aida, or student’s choice of finer count.
Threads: Student’s choices: Pearl Cotton, Encore, Watercolors, Bravo, Floche, Wildflowers, Overture, stranded cotton or silk, etc. 
Colors: Student’s choice.
Skill level: Advanced Beginner with “For Experienced Stitcher” instructions
Prerequisites: Reading a stitch chart.
Time: Introductory session, 4 stitching sessions + turn in session. Approximately 3-6 months.
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $30.00 per student. 33 pages, 9 in color.
Supplies: (approximate): $19-$29 

Plum Blossom - Sashiko (Teacher: Lois Kershner)

Sashiko Plum Blossom introduces the basic techniques of traditional Japanese sashiko embroidery. ‘Sash(i)ko’ (the ‘i’ is almost silent), meaning ‘little pierce’ or ‘little stab’, uses just one stitch, a running stitch, for all of the stylized patterns within the petals of the lovely plum blossom motif. Sashiko is for all levels of stitchers, many finding the stitching rhythm of the beautiful sashiko patterns relaxing. After learning to transfer the patterns for the five flower petals to fabric, the course will continue with step-by-step illustrated instructions for starting and stopping threads without a knot, calculating consistent stitch length, mirroring stitches, turning sharp corners, rounding curves, and meeting stitches at intersections. Although originally done on indigo-dyed or navy fabric using white cotton thread, fabric and thread color substitutions are possible. The text includes practice and master patterns, a history of sashiko, numerous diagrams, and thorough instructions — all the information you need to design and stitch your own sashiko projects in the future.

Project:  Pillow or chair cushion, wall hanging
Size:  10 ½” x 10 ½” design area
Fabric:  50% cotton / 50% linen fabric, or student’s choice
Threads: Sashiko cotton or student’s choice
Colors: Traditional white on navy blue, or student’s choice
Skill level: All levels
Prerequisites: None
Time: Preliminary meeting plus three meetings suggested – 3 months
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $30.00 per student, 30 pages including 12 with color illustrations, full size master transfer pattern, transfer paper, unbound, two-pocket folder
Supplies: (approximate): Less than $20.00, depending on fabric and marker choice

Roses (Teacher: Carol Algie Higginbotham)

Roses takes one of our favorite flowers and uses them to teach you one method of working blackwork. Using a floral motif is in keeping with historic pieces done in one period of blackwork. You will be introduced to the history of blackwork, materials, design transfer and a method of working blackwork patterns. You will discover the difference between dark, medium and light density blackwork patterns. The original is worked in black and a gray to give some contrast and interest to the piece. The use of gold for the enhancement of the piece echoes the historic use of gold. The piece is worked on your choice of 28 to 30 count white or cream linen in stranded floss and very fine metallic braid. While the original is in black, gray and gold, you may work in any color you prefer. Make your Roses bloom and be ready to work any design you may find in blackwork.

Project: Framed picture
Size: 8 ½” x 12” design area
Fabric: 28-30 count white or cream linen
Threads: Stranded floss, #4 Very fine braid
Colors: As shown in photograph or student’s choice
Skill level: Beginner
Prerequisites: None
Time: Six months. Required meetings are left to the discretion of the group.
Fee: $150.00
Text: $30.00 per student, includes color pictures and detailed instructions.
Supplies: (approximate) $25.00

Angelina: Italian Drawn Thread (Teacher:  Barbara Kershaw)

In an introduction to Italian Drawn Thread Embroidery, you will make a fingertip towel that will look lovely in your powder room, or have the option of doing the borders at both ends for a placemat for your table. The model uses 32ct Belfast® Linen, but you may choose to use 28ct Cashel® Linen or 36ct Edinburgh® Linen for finer linen. If you chose different linen, the measurements stay the same, but some of the calculations and counts will be different, and require compensation. This course will teach you not to be afraid to cut threads, and one of the many ways to deal with  threads once they are cut and withdrawn. Included are many traditional elements:  Italian Four-sided Stitch and Peahole Hemstitch, Rodi Stitch, Needleweaving, Palestrina Knots and Bullion Knots as well as the Punto Pincipessa or Princess Stitch. The hem has mitered corners, Antique Hemstitch and a lacy edge.  Left-handed instructions are available.  State how many are needed when you register.

Project: Fingertip towel or placemat
Size: 12” (30cm) x 18” (45cm)
Fabric: White 32-ct Belfast® Linen or student’s choice
Threads:  DMC® #8 & 12 Coton Perlé
Colors: White
Skill Level: Beginner Drawn Thread for the Intermediate Stitcher
Prerequisites: None
Time: Six meetings, six months
Fee:  $150.00 per group
Text: $30.00 per student
Supplies (approximate): $25

Circle with Blue Flower:  Beginning Silk and Metal Thread Course
(Teacher:  Margaret Kinsey)

Circle with Blue Flower is a study in silk and metal thread, designed for the beginner, inspired by the illuminated letters created in medieval times. Embroidery techniques for this piece have come down to us through Western Civilization. The reference notebook for this course is extensive, including color images and discussions of silk and metal threads, definitions of stitches and diagrams of some, a section on tools, a brief history of silk and metal threads, and “How To” sections with pictures for framing up and detailed information for finishing the completed embroidery. The embroiderer will be working with real metals as well as imitation metal threads. Stitches include couching techniques using pearl purl, twists and silk thread; satin stitch over padding of parchment and cord; and satin stitch using flat silk and purls. The outline stitch is worked in rough purl. Chipping will be explored.

Project:  Framed picture
Size: 10” x 10”
Fabric:   Silk Satin
Threads:  pearl and rough purl, flat silk, silk couching thread, twist, Elizabethan twist, gold braid #8, and Japan gold. 
Colors:  Blue silk on white fabric w/gold
Skill level:  Beginner
Prerequisites:  None
Time:  Six months, five meetings
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $50.00 per student, stitching instructions in outline form/many colored pictures and diagrams, extensive reference material, comb bound.
Supplies: Extensive supply list is located on CC website.  $70.00 optional kit available
 

Cleopatra’s Cat (Teacher:  Mary Long)

Cleopatra’s Cat is a canvaswork sampler of 46 laid fillings and composite stitches. The color scheme is based on the beautiful gold and blue mask from King Tutankhamen’s tomb, with the model worked in many different blue threads with metallic accents of blue and Japan gold. Overdyed cotton and silk flosses, overdyed pearl cotton #5 and #8, silk and wool blends are used ,as well as Kreinek metallic threads. Beads and a “gold” medallion are used for the embellishments. This project is probably best worked in a monochromatic color scheme because of the number and variety of patterns. The values chosen for the model are generally dark to medium dark. The metallic thread and exposed light-colored canvas provide value contrast. Colors you like could be substituted. This is an ideal project for using up some of your stash. Many thread substitutions are possible.

Project: Free-standing, bag insert, or wall-hanging.
Size of Design Area: 14” x 9” on 18-ct canvas.  Model approximately 16” x 10” x 5”.
Fabric: 18-ct mono canvas OR Congress cloth.
Threads:  Overdyed cotton and silk flosses, overdyed pearl cotton #5 and #8, silk and wool blends, metallic braid, beads and a “gold” medallion.
Colors: Student’s choice.  Model stitched in middle to dark values of blue w/gold and blue metallic threads.
Skill Level:  Advanced intermediate.
Prerequisites:  The student must be comfortable stitching on the diagonal, working and compensating irregularly-shaped areas. 
Time:  Seven working meetings, seven months.
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text:  $40.00 per student, 132 pages plus color scan of stitched piece, color photos of completed project and the embellishments
Supplies:  (approximate) $70.00 for supplies used in the model.  Could also be stitched with materials from your stash.

Ikebana (Teacher:  Ilse Altherr)

Ikebana is a sampler of composite, pulled thread stitch patterns. The central floral composition, created in the style of Japanese flower arrangement, is worked in counted diagonal satin stitches and pulled Scotch stitches. It introduces a touch of color to the sampler, bringing out the textural pulled thread patterns of the frame. While the embroidery on the sampler measures approximately 6.5” by 8.5”, the size of the student’s sampler depends on the ground fabric used.  Worked on Zweigart®, Cashel linen®,  any countable ground, cotton or linen can be used, with the exception of Aida® cloth or Hardanger fabric.Designed for the advanced intermediate stitcher, each stitch is clearly graphed as to its location and execution. The text includes one color photocopy, nine master chart pages, one complete layout, numerous charts and instructions, as well as suggestions and hints for easier and better stitch accomplishments.

Project: Sampler
Size: 6 ½ ” by 8 ½ ”
Fabric: Zweigart® , Cashel ®, cream,  or student’s choice
Threads: DMC® 6 stranded cotton, DMC® pearl cotton #8 and #12
Colors: Cream and medium dark ecru, as well as greens and mauves, or student’s choice
Skill level: Advanced intermediate
Prerequisites:  Ability to read and apply a graph to fabric threads
Time: Six months. Required meetings are left to the discretion of the group.
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $31.00 per student, unbound, two-pocket folder and one color photocopy
Supplies (approximate): $25.00; less if materials are purchased to be shared or used from stash.

Shading Stitches  (Teacher:  Judy Jeroy)

Shading Stitches, a basic course in surface embroidery, introduces you to nine stitches useful in shading, defining “shade” to mean “vary the transition of a color hue from light to dark.”  Stitches are chain, coral knot, burden, fly, outline/stem, raised outline/stem, crescent spider, French knots, and long & short. Designed for crewel wool lovers AND for those allergic to wool or who would prefer to use a different thread, one sample shown is in stranded cottons, silks, and rayons, using only 1 or 2 ply; another is done completely in 1-strand crewel wools. You may do one or both options, in your own choice of colors. Whatever you submit will be evaluated. History of the technique is given in some detail:  how this form of needlework moved from Europe to America, and how it was adapted to fit the conditions of the colonial world. Why not step into the World of Shading Stitches, make some choices, and take some chances!

Project: Picture
Size: 8” x 5” design
Fabric: Linen twill
Threads:  Appleton™ crewel wools OR stranded silks/cottons/rayons
Colors: Student’s choice
Skill level:  Basic
Prerequisites: None
Time: Five months with three lessons
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $35 for 32 page booklet [10 color pages]
Supplies (approximate):  $45-$55 plus scissors, needles, hoop & stretcher

Dresden Kitty (Teacher: Wanda Linsley)

Dresden Kitty is an adventure into pulled work, also know as drawn fabric, a type of counted thread white work.  Pulling the working thread to compress the ground threads gives this work its lacy appearance and texture. Pulled work is composed of variations on a few basic stitches: Double Back Stitch, Four Sided Stitche, Crossed Stitche, Straight or Satin Stitche, Wave Stitch, Faggot Stitche and Composite Stitches.  Kitty provides the opportunity to learn all of these stitches, beginning with basic stitches and progressing to more complex. The opportunity to design your background is an option. Based on my cat named Patches, a Manx which is a uniquely tailless breed, her “patches” worked well for becoming the Dresden Kitty. Kitty is worked on 24-28 count evenweave linen, such as Zweigart Dublin Linen, with DMC #12 pearl cotton and DMC #80 crochet cotton.  Purchasing the linen by the yard as a group will reduce the expense.

Project: Pulled thread
Size of project: 5” x 7” design area
Fabric: 24 to 28-ct evenweave linen such as Zweigart Dublin Linen, 11” x 13” white, ivory, cream, or natural.
Threads: DMC Pearl Cotton #12 and DMC cotton for crochet #80 in a color to match the linen.
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
Prerequisites: Ability to read and apply a graph to fabric threads
Time: Four months with meetings left to the discretion of the group
Fee:  $150 per group
Text: $20.00 per student; unbound, two-pocket folder
Supplies (approximate): Less than $20.00, depending on the type of linen

Dutch Legacy  (Teacher: Sandy Rodgers)

There’s lots of help as you make the choices presented in the Dutch Legacy text: cotton or silk, colors just right for you, #18 canvas or Congress cloth, either vertical or horizontal orientation. Whichever you decide, you’ll stitch a glorious, single flower specimen. Along the way, we’ll learn several, easy shading techniques that you can use over and over again for other stitching projects, how to work with a wonderful new trim thread, couching bullion, and even seven given blackwork patterns. Lots of photos, numerous diagrams which are large and clear, plus excellent instructions for which Sandy has become justly famous, will guide you every step of the way! The reference materials in this text are a must for every stitcher!

Project: Framed Picture
Size: 7 ¾” x 5 ½” on 14" x 12" canvas
Fabric: Either Congress cloth OR #18-ct canvas
Threads: Either stranded silks OR stranded cotton, Kreinik ⅜" Trim, Japanese metal #1, pearl purl bullion
Colors: Students’ choice, text gives color selection help
Skill Level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: Able to work stitches from a diagram
Time: Either three or four meetings a month apart, plus preliminary and wrap-up meetings
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $42 per student, 86 pages, four pages of color photos, full size color scan, spiral bound, plastic covers
Supplies (approximate): $42 using silk, approximately $28 using cotton

Molly:  A dimensional bear (Teacher:  Dianne Lewandowski)

The Australians invented wool embroidery on wool grounds, including some unique stitches and motifs. They apply this embroidery to blankets, shoe bags, hot water bottle covers, knee rugs (afghans), dolls, and stuffed animals. In this project you will learn doll-making construction using both machine and hand sewing. The limbs and head will be moveable, using different methods so that you can familiarize yourself with different processes in your own future projects. You will also learn interesting stitches to make roses and buds in wool that rise up above the ground. Some discussion is given on changing your color scheme. The course requires that you have basic knowledge in surface embroidery. Directions are given with graphics for the hand sewing required which uses stitches you are more than likely already know. You must have access to a sewing machine. This course emphasizes finishing techniques.

Project:  Free-standing Teddy Bear
Size: Approximately 12”
Fabric:  Wool Blanketing
Threads: Appleton crewel, silk mori, sewing thread
Colors: values of rose, green, blue, gold
Skill level: Advanced Beginner/Early Intermediate
Prerequisites: Some experience with surface embroidery and machine sewing.  Course emphasizes finishing and construction.
Time: One preliminary meeting, four working meetings, and one turn-in session
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $30.00 per student, 73 pages and extensive color graphics.
Supplies (approximate): $40.00 (supplies can be shared for reduced cost), finishing kit available.

Lady Larkspur Necklace (Teacher:  Jeanette Carmichael)

A dichroic bead with its artistically blended glass is the focal point of Lady Larkspur Necklace, the ultimate accessory to any wardrobe. Each participant will select the focal bead of choice, whether similar to the original or uniquely suited to the student’s wardrobe scheme. Instructions include how to choose the focal bead and complementary seed beads. The student will learn about dichroic beads and about seed beads -- their individuality in color, finish and cut. Techniques include the amazingly versatile three-bead spiral stitch and attachment to that spiral of branched fringes with contrasting end beads to complement the focal bead, as well as attachment of a sterling silver or gold clasp. Handy tips for simplifying the accomplishment of the beaded project assist in making this CC fun and easy.  A bonus instruction page for matching earrings is included.

Project:  Beaded necklace with dichroic focal bead
Size:  18” to 22”long (participant’s choice) plus length of focal bead
Color:  Participant’s choice with complementary seed beads
Beads, etc.:  Focal bead, variety of seed and other fringe end beads, clasp, thread, needles, beeswax, bead pad and sharp embroidery scissors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Prerequisites:  None
Time: Three meetings – two to three months
Fee:  $150.00 per group
Text:  $33.00 per student, 43 pages, spiral bound, color photo
Supplies (approximate):  Focal bead: $0 for participant’s own bead, or $25 -$85 if purchased.  Clasp,seed, and other beads based on bead selection and sharing of supplies: $25 - $35.

Silk Ribbon Pond (Teacher:  Kim Sanders)

Explore the luscious colors and luxurious texture of silk ribbon embroidery as you create a fantasy landscape from a dozen uncomplicated silk ribbon stitches. Step-by-step instructions make Silk Ribbon Pond simple enough for a beginner, while a wide variety of stitches and the option to choose one’s own colors will engage the intermediate stitcher as well. The course includes detailed information on successfully manipulating silk ribbon, clear stitch diagrams, and many illustrations to guide the student as each flower is embroidered. Students may use the suggested color scheme or personalize the piece with their own choice of colors for ground fabric and ribbons. A section on color theory is provided to assist students in making successful color choices. The text also discusses a variety of ways a single stitch can be used, so that each embroiderer can create his/her own variations and original designs in the future.

Project: Framed picture
Size: 8” x 6”design area
Fabric: Silk dupioni
Threads: 2mm and 4mm silk ribbon, stranded cotton
Colors:  As shown in photograph or student’s choice
Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
Prerequisites: None
Time: One preliminary meeting, five working meetings, five months
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $30.00 per student, 1 color photocopy, 4 detailed, color photographs
Supplies (approximate): $45-50 depending on ribbon selection and if ribbons are shared.

Assisi  (Teacher:  Marion Scoular)

Assisi embroidery, which originated in the birthplace of St. Francis in Italy, is a counted thread embroidery, characterized by the design being outlined and left empty and the background filled in, generally with cross stitch.  This is known as a "Voided design". Double running is used for the outlines, making the work reversible. The cross stitch is then worked, with an effort to maintain vertical stitches on the wrong side. Long-armed cross stitch and N stitch are alternatives to cross stitch and will be explored.

Project:  Three pincushion "doodles, followed by a small design (supplied)
or an original design by the stitcher.
Size:  Pincushion (depending on fabric count chosen) 2" X 2 1/2"
Butterfly (depending on fabric count chose) 3" X 3 1/2"
Fabric: Evenweave choices given
Threads and Colours:  Student's choice
Skill Level:  Beginner
Prerequisites:  Ability to read a chart
Time:  Six months... Two, possibly three working meetings, one submission
Fee:  $20 for 30 pages in a punchless binder
Supplies: Approximately $10
 

A Memory Book: Scrapbooking with a Needle (Teacher: Cathy Trostmann)

Have you ever wondered what to do with linens that stay in your closet because you cannot bear to toss them?  Maybe Aunt Sallie or Grandmother Jo made them but now there are holes or stained spots in some area.  I invite you to take a fun course that invites the stitcher to use bits and pieces of these treasured linens that are no longer useful in the home.  Create a cloth book that will contain these keepsakes and make them available for viewing every day.  If you have no keepsakes, then maybe a collection of buttons or handkerchiefs might be the answer. When your pages are complete, you will be directed to make a crazy quilt cover.  This will enable you to use more collectables in this Victorian artwork.  A truly unique course that will inspire your creativity while enjoying a little nostalgia! 

Project: A cloth book with linen pages and a crazy quilt cover
Size: Folded book is 8” X 10”
Threads:  Wildflowers, pearl cotton or stitcher’s choice
Colors: Stitcher’s choice
Skill Level: All levels
Prerequisites: Basic sewing and embroidery knowledge
Time: 6 meetings, 6 months
Text: $35   per student, 47 pages that can be used in a notebook
Supplies: (approximate): $30 for linen, 100% cotton muslin, threads such as Wildflowers and pearl cotton, and stitcher’s choice of other decorative threads 
 

Japanese Temari Basics for Beginners (Teacher:Barbara Suess)

Written for absolute beginners, this course will ease you in a fun and gentle way into making your own temari balls with classic, introductory designs. Portrait Temari (optional project) begins your journey in stitching on a thread-wrapped ball. Three more patterns created exclusively for this course are July the 4th, Quaker Ladies, and Bound Star.  Learn how to make a well-wrapped temari ball by starting with a Styrofoam® ball or a variety of other ingredients, such as thread scraps, rice hulls, or dryer lint. Directions are given for finding the north and south poles, and dividing the ball into 8 and 10 sections. Temari techniques and stitches include wrapped bands, starbursts, spindles, double herringbone stitching, and stitching a 5-point star interlocked with a pentagon. Students are encouraged along the way to drop any tendencies toward perfectionism and just have fun playing with this ancient folk craft from Japan.

Project: Japanese Temari Balls
Size: 10 inch (25 cm) circumference balls
Threads: black sewing thread for wrapping, YLI Candlelight or Kreinik #8 Braid for marking, DMC® #5 pearl cotton for stitching.
Colors: Suggestions provided but students are encouraged to choose their own colors
Skill Level: Beginner
Prerequisites: None
Time: 5 meetings, 5 months
Text: $29.50 per student, 54 pages, unbound in a 2-pocket folder, 5 pages color
 

Florentine and Tulips (Teacher: Gail Stafford)

Designed for the canvas embroidery beginner, and inspired by a love of flowers, patterns, and Florentine embroidery, this quilt-like design can be stitched in one of two suggested color schemes, or one of the stitcher’s choosing.  The student will read and follow charts to execute the Reversed Scotch Stitch, Basketweave, Slanted Gobelin Stitch, a Florentine continuous line design, and the Continental Stitch.  Participants will use a laying tool to create smooth stitches and maximize sheen with stranded embroidery cotton.

A brief history of Florentine Embroidery leads into an overview of continuous line designs.  All correspondence course participants may choose the option of developing their own color schemes.  Intermediate and advanced stitchers may select threads or canvas other than those recommended and may make minor design changes, should they chose to do so. 

Project: Framed picture
Size: Design area 6 ½“ x 6 ½ “, frame size 11” x 11”
Fabric:  18 count mono canvas
Threads:  DMC® stranded embroidery cotton
Colors: red-orange/blue/green or violet/yellow/green or stitcher’s choice
Skill level: Beginner and beyond
Prerequisites:  None
Time:  Six sessions (six months)
Text: $30.00 per student, 37 pages pre-punched for three ring binder plus color photocopy and master chart for one quadrant of the design, unbound, two-pocket folder
Supplies: approximately $15.00
Additional equipment:  stretcher bars and laying tool
 

Hummingbird and Honeysuckle - Stumpwork (Teacher: Luan Callery)

This realistic Ruby-throated hummer is worked on a 'slip' before attaching to the linen and stuffed. His wing is wired to give the illusion of hovering at the source of the honeysuckle nectar. The padded and wired elements establish dimension with the stuffed body sculpting a life-like hummingbird. The vine has whipped chain, dimensional buds, padded and wired flowers with a smattering of wired leaves.

Project: Framed picture
Size: 7 ½ inch round or square mat or 8 inch framed without a mat
Fabric: Linen twill
Threads: Cotton or silk floss and gold metallic
Colors: Red, Green and Grey or students choice
Skill level: All levels
Prerequisites: Knowledge of basic stitches is helpful
Time: Five working sessions – six months
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $30.00 per student – two pocket folder with detailed color pictures
Supplies (approximate): $20.00 using cotton floss
 

Moonlight Sonata (Teacher: Cindy Valentine)

An intermediate course in Hardanger embroidery, this piece focuses on some of the ways traditional Hardanger embroidery stitches can be embellished using other pulled stitches, surface stitches, specialty threads, and beads. There is a chart to help the student select an alternate colorway if desired.   Several filling stitches will be learned while stitching this sampler, including small webbed spokes, adjoining wrapped bars, curled V, struvor, and large, wheeled spokes. In addition, there are double cables, a four-sided stitch, faggot stitch, Algerian eyelets and other eyelet stitches. These stitches are combined with traditional Hardanger motifs, satin stitches, and klosters to make a piece suitable for framing.  Because some of these stitches require compensation or complex pathways, information is given to help the student plot a path for irregular areas of needleweaving or wrapping. Information is provided about how to repair common cutting errors.

Project: Framed piece
Size: Stitched area is 7.43” x 15.29” on 28-ct linen
Fabric: 28-ct linen
Threads: A variety of cottons, silks, and metallics
Colors: Periwinkle blues and white; chart included to aid in selecting alternate colorways
Skill level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: Ability to read a chart and some Hardanger experience
Time: Six months
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $40.00 per student; more than 70 pages, extensive color graphics including photos showing each step for completing complex stitches and pathways
Supplies: (Approximate) $50.00
 

Summer Dream (Teacher: Luan Callery)

Summer Dream is a stumpwork embroidery which can be used alone or as a companion to Fantasy Remembered. The design is worked on crewel linen or linen twill. The colors can be changed to fit a particular décor. A lily is partly worked on the linen, two petals are padded, and for added dimension, two petals are worked on wire and attached to the flower. Beads enhance the petals and stamens poke out from the center of the flower. There are bullion buds, padded forget-me-nots, and wildflowers worked with needle weaving on wire. The butterfly and the bee incorporate wire in order for their wings to stand away from the linen. A padded lady bug crawls along a leaf, ready to take flight. Stitches include bullion knots, couching, fly, french knots, long and short shading, needle weaving, outline, satin, and seed stitches. The stamen stitch and buttonhole-on-wire complete the piece.

Project: Framed picture 6” x 12”
Fabric: Linen or linen twill
Threads: ©Appleton wool, stranded cotton, Neon Rays®, Watercolours®
Colors: Values of green, blue, bright pink; or students choice
Skill level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: Knowledge of long and short shading is desirable
Time: Six sessions/six months
Fee: $150 per group
Text: $30.00 per student, includes detailed photographs
Supplies: (Approximate) $40.00; less than half that if sharing supplies
 

Morning Glories (Teacher: Ilse Altherr)

Morning Glories is a sampler of pulled thread stitches. The flowers and vines, worked in counted diagonal satin stitches and cross stitches, complement and introduce color to the design as well as give it a frame-like appearance. Ilse’s sampler measures approximately 8” by 11.25” and was worked on Zweigart®, Congressa Cloth®, a soft Congress cloth. The size of the student’s sampler will depend upon its ground fabric, which can be any countable ground, cotton or linen, with the exception of Aida® cloth or Hardanger fabric. Please note that counting the threads for the flowers on a high count, fine fabric, will, indeed, be a challenge. This sampler was designed for the advanced beginner. Each stitch is clearly graphed as to its location and execution. The text includes one color photocopy, nine master chart pages, one complete layout, numerous charts and instructions, as well as suggestions and hints for easier and better stitch accomplishments.

Project: Sampler
Size: 8” x 11.25”
Fabric: Zweigart® Congressa Cloth®, white or student’s choice
Threads: DMC® stranded cotton and pearl cotton sizes 8 and 5
Colors: White pearl cotton for the pulled thread patterns; all others, student’s choice
Skill level: Advanced beginner
Prerequisites: Ability to read and apply a graph to fabric threads
Time: Six months - Required number of meetings is left to discretion of the group.
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $31.00 per student, unbound, two-pocket folder, one color photocopy
Supplies (approximate): $25.00, less if materials are purchased to be shared or used from stash
 

My Favorite Bracelet (Teacher: Jeanette Carmichael)

Resplendent with pearl, silver, and crystal beads, My Favorite Bracelet is the time-honored classic bracelet, at home with both casual and formal wear and easily paired with a pearl necklace and earrings. It is made to fit the student’s wrist perfectly and is fastened with a sterling silver clasp. The student will learn about beads and bead finishes, the reinforced square stitch foundation upon which the embellishment beads are attached, and a technique for a looped raised platform atop the foundation providing a dimension of height to the bracelet. Other techniques include various types of bead attachments, the application of filler beads, silver bead caps and spacers, and anchor and pivot beads, and two very simple beading knots to end and begin new threads. The Color Choice Challenge allows for choice of beads in colors to coordinate with any wardrobe.

Project: Beaded bracelet
Size: Width: 1⅜ inches; Height: ½ inch; Length: to fit wrist
Color: Pearl, silver, and crystal aurora borealis
Beads, etc.: Various seed and embellishment beads, thread, needles, beeswax, bead pad, and sharp embroidery scissors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: None
Time: Preliminary meeting plus three meetings suggested -- 3 months
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $33.00 per student, 55 pages, spiral bound, color photo
Supplies (approximate): $55.00 to $75.00 depending on beads selected and the sharing of supplies

Beading Color Play (Teacher: Peggy Wright)

Play with color while beading two peyote-stitch bracelets using cylinder beads. You first practice four types of peyote stitch and learn ways to design in the stitch. The course then covers basic color theory, and you work with color schemes to plan your two bracelets.

Project: Two bracelets
Beads & thread: Japanese 8 o seed beads and 11o cylinder beads, nylon thread
Colors: Student’s choice; class covers color theory and use of color schemes
Skill Level: Advanced beginner
Prerequisites: Some beading experience
Time: 8 meetings: 2 for Lesson 1; 2 for Lesson 2, and 1 for Lessons 3, 4, 5, and 6; 6 months total
Text: $35; 71 pages, including 10 pages with color graphics; spiral bound
Supplies (approximate): $40 to $100 retail, depending on whether students use the same or different cylinder beads for the exercises and the two bracelets and on whether they buy more or less expensive beads (the types of finishes on the beads makes some much more expensive than others).

Crewel Choices (Teacher: Judy Jeroy)

This course was designed to encourage intermediate-level stitchers to make choices, take chances, and insert changes in my example. Students will be studying curved long and short shading, whipped crescent spider webs, bullion rosettes, twisted chain, fancy lattice filling, raised chain, and raised outline stitches. Students are encouraged to move the individual elements of the design around, and/or reverse them. The course is designed for the intermediate level in surface embroidery but is suitable for more advanced levels also. The oval design measures 7” x 10”, and is finished as a picture. My color scheme of corals, yellow, blue, olive, and grass green may not suit your taste, and you are encouraged to change the colors to suit.

There is an element of mystery as students are challenged to find the things that I would change about the piece if I were doing it again. Numerous technical tips and hints will be given to allow participants to achieve excellence in this medium. Stitching and shading with Appleton™ crewel wools on linen twill fabric will allow students to produce the lovely embroideries that they have long admired. Fabric, threads, and needles should cost from $42 - $50; scissors, hoop, and stretcher bars are also needed. The $25 text includes color photocopies.

History of the technique is given in some detail; you will learn how this form of needlework moved from England to America and how it was adapted to fit the conditions of the colonial world.

This course contains four lessons and could be completed within a 6-month period.
Project: Picture
Size: 7” x 10” oval design
Fabric: Linen twill
Threads: Appleton™ crewel wools
Colors: Student’s choice
Skill level: Intermediate
Prerequisites: None
Time: Four lessons – 6 months
Fee: $130.00 per group
Text: $25.00
Supplies: $42.00-$50.00 plus scissors, hoop & stretcher bars.

More Options…In Hardanger (Teacher: Dale Sokolow)

Hardanger is a form of embroidery that originated in the Hardanger region of Norway. It is fun to do and can quickly become a quest to learn more and more filler stitches. In this class, the student will go beyond Options...in hardanger. We will review how to work such elements as diagonals, divided bars, blanket stitch, spider webs, Dove’s eyes, square filets, and picots. These elements will be used in new fillers and in a variety of combinations and different ways.

For those who want to learn how to do these new filler stitches but who do not want to do a bell pull, instructions will be given on how to make the project into a framed wall hanging. A variety of fabrics and threads will be discussed so the student will be able to select her/his own fabrics and threads. If you love Hardanger embroidery, you will find this class informative and fun. The instructions will also be a terrific resource for future Hardanger embroidery.

Project: Bell pull, wall hanging, or doily
Size: 7-5/8” x 13-3/8”
Fabric: 28-ct Jobelan® or the student’s choice
Threads: Watercolours( and pearl cotton or the student’s choosing
Colors: Color may be the student’s choosing or those of the teacher
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
Prerequisites: Options...in hardanger or comparable course
Time: Six lessons in approximately six months
Fee: $150.00 per group
Text: $31.00, 65 pages plus one color copy and an enlargement of the project
Supplies: Approximately $13.00

Swiss Sampler (Teacher: Ilse Altherr)

The Swiss Sampler is a compilation of patterns and motifs garnered from a 1665 sampler housed in the Landesmuseum, Zurich. This beautiful sampler is worked mostly in double running stitch and long-arm cross stitch, as well as simple cross stitch. Although the embroidery on Ilse’s sampler measures approximately 11” by 15”, the size of the student’s sampler is adjustable to the time available to the stitcher and the space the sampler will occupy.

Worked with DMC® stranded cotton on Legacy, Dower Quality 30-ct linen, the expense incurred for the purchase of materials is minimal because most dedicated stitchers already have a sizable stash of stranded cotton threads and remnants of linen ground. If linen must be purchased, doing so by the yard and sharing will further reduce expense.

The sampler was designed for the intermediate to advanced stitcher. The $32.50 text includes two color photocopies, master chart pages, one complete layout, historical annotations, numerous charts and instructions, as well as suggestions and hints for easier and better stitch accomplishments.

Project: Sampler
Size: 11” by 15” or student’s choice
Fabric: Legacy, Dower Quality 30-ct linen or student’s choice
Threads: DMC® 6-stranded cotton in many colors
Colors: 20 different colors were used in Ilse’s original version; student’s choice
Skill level: Intermediate to advanced
Prerequisites: Ability to read and apply a graph to fabric threads
Time: Six months with required meetings left to the discretion of the group
Text: $32.50 per student; unbound, two-pocket folder and two color photocopies
Supplies: Approximately $25.00, less if materials are purchased to be shared or used from stash

ALL COURSES

Beading

Beaded Nutcrackers
Teacher: Kathleen Rake

These beaded nutcrackers can be worn as necklaces or used as ornaments. This is a fun project with a purpose. You will discover how to demystify the process of increasing and decreasing in an odd shape using odd count flat peyote stitch. There are four different nutcrackers each with a different hat shape. One is blue/red, one is green/red, one is bright blue/red, and one is purple/green. Color combinations are easy to exchange using the other shapes if you prefer. There is a lesson on how to select beads for the necklace and how to attach the nutcracker permanently or non-permanently so you can use it as either an ornament or wear it. Students will complete one nutcracker of their choice with a hanger and additional necklace.

Beading Color Play
Teacher: Peggy Wright

Play with color while beading two peyote-stitch bracelets! This course covers four types of peyote stitch and methods of designing in the stitch. You work exercises in flat and tubular, even and uneven-count stitch, starting with larger 8 o seed beads and completing the remaining exercises in cylinder beads. The course then covers basic color theory, and you work color exercises using cylinder beads in uneven-count flat and tubular peyote stitch. These exercises with color schemes allow you to plan your two bracelets. After working the exercises, you choose your own colors for your two bracelets. You work the flat bracelet first and learn to create the beaded toggle to finish it. You then work the tubular bracelet and learn to decrease to finish the bracelet's ends and the beaded end-cap.
 

My Favorite Bracelet (Teacher: Jeanette Carmichael)

Resplendent with pearl, silver, and crystal beads, My Favorite Bracelet is the time-honored classic bracelet, at home with both casual and formal wear and easily paired with a pearl necklace and earrings. It is made to fit the student’s wrist perfectly and is fastened with a sterling silver clasp. The student will learn about beads and bead finishes, the reinforced square stitch foundation upon which the embellishment beads are attached, and a technique for a looped raised platform atop the foundation providing a dimension of height to the bracelet. Other techniques include various types of bead attachments, the application of filler beads, silver bead caps and spacers, and anchor and pivot beads, and two very simple beading knots to end and begin new threads. The Color Choice Challenge allows for choice of beads in colors to coordinate with any wardrobe.
 

Canvas

None currently listed
 

Counted Thread

Beginner’s Hardanger
Teacher: Marion Scoular

Elegant and lace-like, Hardanger embroidery is easier to stitch than it appears.Worked in the hand, it is great to take on your travels. The basic techniques are clearly explained, and you have the option of stitching in a solid color or experimenting with Watercolours®.

Handy Huswif
Teacher: Cathy Trostmann

The huswif (needle roll) and its accessories are a fun project that will give you a brief history of samplers and their motifs, as well as a variety of stitches to work. Complete directions for finishing the huswif and its accessories are all a part of the course. The accessories include a needle book, scissors fob, pin keeper, and envelope bag.

More Options…In Hardanger
Teacher: Dale Sokolow

For those of you who loved Options...in Hardanger, MORE Options...in Hardanger is for you. This class is an extension of the first, with a whole batch of new fillers and new ways to use them. The project has been stitched as a bell pull, but it also can be worked as a framed wall hanging or doily. The option is yours.

Oksana’s Sampler
Teacher: Judith Gulick

Oksana's Sampler students tour eastern Europe while learning"painless designing" with step-by-step instructions, including changing colors while maintaining design continuity. Choosing just required elements, students work traditional folk heart, Hardanger accents, plus four bands chosen from 12 diagramed, or students create these samplers with either finished edge.Oksana's Sampler text covers almost every stitching level.

Swiss Sampler
Teacher: Ilse Altherr

Swiss Sampler is a compilation of patterns and motifs garnered from a 1665 sampler housed in the Landesmuseum, Zurich. It is worked mostly in double running stitch and long-arm cross stitch as well as simple cross stitch. Students have the freedom to adjust the size of their samplers to suit their individual taste.

Tiramisu
Teacher: Dakota Rogers

Tiramisu is a sampler comprised of 12 bands of reversible blackwork, adapted from 16th and 17th century Italian samplers. The model is stitched on fine white linen with stranded silk. A basic color theory course is included. Students have supply and color options.

Quilting

None currently listed
 

Stumpwork

None currently listed
 

Surface Embroidery

Crewel Choices
Teacher: Judy Jeroy

This course is designed to encourage intermediate-level stitchers to make choices, take chances, and insert changes in my example. Students are encouraged to move the individual elements of the design around and/or reverse them. There is an element of mystery as students are challenged to find the things that I would change about the piece if I were doing it again. Numerous technical tips and hints will be given to allow participants to achieve excellence in this medium

Silk and Metal Embroidery
Teacher: Kay Stanis

The purpose of this class is to take the anxiety out of silk and metal embroidery as the floral design is worked. It is hoped that the students will become more comfortable with silk and metal threads and the techniques for embroidering them. I would like to share the delight that comes from the essence of silk with gold and silver threads of exquisite and treasured gifts, the splendor of pageantry, and the poetry of legend. This essence is the glimmering, exciting reality that we all share. Photo is an example only.

Whitework

White Queen
Teacher: Carolyn Webb

In this whitework band sampler you will explore pulled and
drawn thread work and learn the difference. White Queen will
teach hemstitching and several ways to finish the edges. Texture is emphasized with stitches and threads; beads and fresh-water pearls accent the design.

Other

Finishing with Flair
Teacher: Marion Scoular

A notebook course covering three useful techniques for finishing your needlework and instructions for lacing needlework for framing. Do the finishing yourself, save money, and know that the work is done well. Little expense is involved as you may use scraps from your collection.

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