Do you find elements of the natural world, like the sun, moon, clouds, and mountains, appearing in your creative practice? Throughout history, these elements have symbolized eternity and consistency across cultures. In Korea, culturally specific symbols of longevity include the pine tree, bamboo, elixir mushroom, crane, deer, and tortoise. These motifs, and their associated meanings, are the essence of traditional Korean art and craft, including embroidery. Korean makers have stitched their wishes for a long life, good health, and happiness into their creations for many generations.

In this class, Heehwa Jo will teach two important Korean stitches: 솔잎수[solip-su](pine leaf stitch) and 귀갑수[gwigap-su](tortoise shell stitch). Both stitches are rich in symbolism and versatility, making them perfect for various projects. As we stitch together, Heehwa will provide a brief overview to the art of Korean embroidery.

While silk fabrics and threads are the traditional materials used, participants are encouraged to bring any kinds of materials they wish to experiment with. The focus of this session will be on understanding the meaning behind these stitches and practicing the techniques involved.

Date
Thursday, June 4th, 2026

Time
12:00-2:30 pm ET

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

Cost
$75

Recording

All World Embroidery Series sessions will be recorded. A link to each recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. Each link is live for three months after the live session.

Class Materials:

A brief introduction to stretching fabric on stretcher bars will be provided along with the embroidery designs.

Traditional Materials

• Fine 2-ply twisted silk thread in any color (thread width: approx. 1㎜ or less)
• Short and fine embroidery needle (length: approx. 3㎝ / width: approx. 1㎜ or less)
• Silk satin in any color, non-stretch, not too slippery or floaty (size: min. A4 or Letter)
• Embroidery snips
• Wooden stretcher bar frame (size: depending on your fabric size, fabric size is at least 2㎝ longer both in lengthwise and widthwise)
• For fabric stretching, fabric glue or stick glue and flat head thumb tacks
• White carbon tracing paper for design transferring (hand drawing with pen is another option)
• Thumbtack remover or stainless spoon as a substitute

Less Traditional Alternatives

• Any kinds of thread in any color such as cotton thread, sewing thread, knitting yarn, etc.
• Needle that fits your thread
• Any non-stretch fabric (cotton, linen, etc.)
• Embroidery snips
• Any type of fabric stretcher (embroidery hoop or stretcher bar frame)
• Tools for design transferring (tracing paper, pen, or erasable marker)

About the World Embroidery Series

TATTER’s World Embroidery Series is a celebration of global embroidery craft. Sewists will encounter an astonishing array of culturally specific techniques, and will have the opportunity to learn from accomplished practicing teachers who are equally purposed in preserving heritage techniques.