The Wiener Werkstätte was founded in 1903 in Vienna as a collective of designers and artist-craftspeople committed to creating exquisite, handcrafted objects. The initiative was a deliberate counterpoint to the mass-produced, poorly designed factory goods and traditional handcrafts of the era. The Werkstätte sought to elevate consumer taste, offering meticulously designed furniture, metalwork, ceramics, clothing, jewelry, and textiles. Departing from the floral and vegetal stylizations of Art Nouveau, the founders envisioned a new aesthetic that reflected modernity and refinement. Among its many ventures, the textile department emerged as the most renowned and financially successful arm of the organization, guided by a succession of influential architects and designers during its operation from 1903 to 1930.

This two-part workshop delves into the cultural vibrancy of early 20th-century Vienna, shaped by figures like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. You will explore the history of the Wiener Werkstätte, the contributions of its pioneering women designers, and the emergence of the “new” modern woman. Sarah will present slide talks in both sessions, drawing on her research and firsthand experiences from her 2024 visit to Vienna.

You’ll embroider two designs inspired by the Wiener Werkstätte's fashion and textile print legacy. One motif is adapted from an embroidered blouse designed in 1911 by Eduard Josef Wimmer-Wisgrill. The other, based on a 1923 textile design by Dagobert Peche, will offer insights into transforming printed or painted patterns into compelling embroidered works.

Dates + Times

Friday, November 14th, 2025 – 12-2:30 pm EST

Friday, November 21st, 2025 – 12-2:30 pm EST

Location

Zoom, access link will be sent out before class.

Cost

2-Part Workshop: $150 

Class Materials

• Linen or cotton fabric (Sarah's examples are in lightweight black cotton and natural muslin)
• Perle cotton no. 8 thread in white, black and two shades of gray
• Embroidery or crewel needle
• Heat-sensitive pen- Frixion
• Tailor's or quilter's chalk pencil if working on dark fabric
• Scissors
• Optional: fabric paint or watercolor and a stiff-bristled stencil brush, painter’s or masking tape, cardboard or surface that you can tape the fabric to before you paint it. 

Scholarships

There are two scholarship spots available for this class. Please email info@tatter.org to learn more