Flowering plants, conifers, and fungi are the heroes of this class, which offers an exploration of plant structures through embroidery. The beauty and wonder of flora and fauna have inspired embroidery motifs for thousands of years. From scientifically precise depictions of plant specimens to abstract motifs that delight in shape and color, embroiderers have long interpreted nature to embellish their artworks. Humans understand that plants and fungi offer medicinal and spiritual potential, and have carefully cultivated plants and plant knowledge that enhance wellbeing. Each plant, from the common “weed” to a specimen tree, awaits discovery; and plants can be transformed into teas or tinctures, rendered into dye or stitched design.

This botanical embroidery course explores the intersection of art, science, and folklore. Join famed author and artist Arounna Khounnoraj, along with herbalist and professor Katherine Elmer and lecturing mycologist Ari Rockland-Miller, for a three part workshop designed to elevate our stitching through a deep investigation into plant structure and potentials. Express your newly discovered knowledge in thread, elaborating an original abstract botanical design by Arounna with your own stitches.

Students will learn 19 stitches, including stem stitch, picot, eyelet, and turkey work. When your artwork is complete, you will know your subjects deeply.

This course can be accompanied by a materials kitcontaining;

• An original design by Arounna screen printed onto 18'' x 18'' linen fabric, with a choice between oatmeal and terracotta
• 6 skeins of Tatter’s own thread (naturally-dyed by hand, with plant matter)
• A stitching guide
• An embroidery hoop and needle
• Accompanying information about the plant illustrations

Dates
Fridays, April 26th, May 3rd, and May 10th, 2024

Time
2pm - 4:30 pm ET

Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants the day before class.

*If you cannot attend the live sessions, the recordings will be emailed to you for review in your own time.

Cost
Virtual Class : $165

Virtual Class with Materials Package: $210 + shipping

Please note: If you purchase the class without the material kit, we will send a PDF of the pattern and pattern transfer directions on the week of class. You will need to source and bring the following materials to class:

• 18” x 18” linen fabric that is light in color
• Embroidery hoop (size of your choice)
• Embroidery needle
• Water soluble embroidery marker or pattern transfer tool of your choice
• Embroidery thread in an assortment of colors