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The Art of Hand Embroidery with Richard McVetis

In this day workshop, after an inspirational walk through David Parr House, we explore the potential of stitching as a method of mark-making, using stitch, process, and materials to express yourself. We will explore the slowness and rhythms of hand stitching, the versatility, and strengths of embroidery for drawing and mark-making, and the pleasure of having time to make.

  • 3rd May 2025 - 3rd May 2025
  • 10:30 am - 3:30 pm

In this day workshop, after an inspirational walk through David Parr House, we explore the potential of stitching as a method of mark-making, using stitch, process, and materials to express yourself. We will explore the slowness and rhythms of hand stitching, the versatility, and strengths of embroidery for drawing and mark-making, and the pleasure of having time to make.

Create textures and patterns, work a stitch in different threads changing its scale and spacing, work freely, and combine stitches to mark, make and draw. Richard will help by demonstrating how this can be achieved using the simplest hand embroidery techniques.

This workshop is for all levels of hand embroiderers.

Good ideas need well and nourished minds; this workshop inspires moments of mindfulness and conditions for creativity, to pause, think, and re-energise.

These longer, more focused days allow a deeper understanding of each stitch through experimentation and play.

The price of your workshop includes all materials and equipment for the day, and an optional walk through David Parr House.

About the artist

Richard McVetis graduated in Constructed Textiles from the Royal College of Art in 2008. Since completing his BA in Embroidery at Manchester Metropolitan University in 2005, he has been shortlisted for several distinguished prizes, including the Jerwood Drawing Prize, UK, 2011 and 2017; and the international Loewe Craft Prize, 2018. In addition, McVetis has shown work nationally and internationally at several exhibitions, including The British Textile Biennial, Rossendale, UK, 2021; RENEW at Kettles Yard, UK, 2019; Loewe Craft Prize, The Design Museum, London, UK, 2018; Collect Open, Saatchi Gallery, UK, 2017; ‘Form + Motion’ – a major exhibition with British Council and Crafts Council for the Cheongju Craft Biennale, South Korea, 2017. In 2022 he had his first solo show at the Craft Study Centre, Farnham. Richard is a visiting lecturer in Textiles at the Royal College of Art, London.

Light refreshments are provided, but please bring a packed lunch.

All money raised from our workshops goes directly towards maintaining David Parr House – thank you for supporting us.

Please see our Terms and Conditions before making a booking. Bookings are non-refundable and may not be exchanged or transferred.

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Did you know?

Part of Queen’s College, The Mathematical Bridge is something of an architectural feat, using exclusively straight pieces of timber to create an elegant arched appearance.