Stories in Stitch

My dear students and fellow stitchers

A little hello from London in advance of our stitching time together at

Cowslip Farm Summer 2022.

My Contact Details:

Email: jessiechorley@hotmail.com

Tel: 07708921550

My Web Links:

Website: www.jessiechorley.com

Instagram: @jessiechorley

This masterclass focuses on my signature style of hand embroidered illustration. We will

explore several stitching techniques, including couching, running, stem, seed and back stitch,

as well as the use of hand stitched text. I will also help you get started with simple appliqué

and patching.

The masterclass will start with a short talk by me, Jessie. I will show you a selection of my

original artwork and there will also be time for your questions. I will then direct you, both as

a group and individually, as you embark on your journey of creating your own stitched story

in my signature style.

Firstly, you will choose to work either on a flat, layered fabric panel, or to construct and work

on a simple, folded fabric book, using appliqué and hand stitching as your main techniques.

The natural fabric for both will be part of the kit that you will be given at the start of your

class. This kit will also contain a selection of pre-cut fabric motifs, ready for you to appliqué

directly on to your work. 

Cost of Kits per Student:£12.00 (Students can pay me Jessie for kits in person on the

day of the workshops)

I encourage you to enjoy this creative masterclass, without focusing too much on finishing

your work. Instead, I suggest you approach this day as an explorative, peaceful slow-stitching

experience, embracing and learning new techniques while being inspired by my original

artworks and materials that surround you. Bring your sketchbook and make notes to help

you finish your work, if necessary, at home.

Suggested Materials List:

You will be provided with a simple, hand-crafted kit at the start of your masterclass experience,

which includes the use of all my specialist embroidery threads. 

Cost of Kits per Student:£12.00 (Students can pay me Jessie for kits in person on the

day of the workshops)

However, I will always encourage

you, the maker, to create your own “story” as much as possible. To do this, I suggest that you bring

along a selection of items from the list below. These can be incorporated into your work, making it

more personal:

* Favourite sewing tools

* An assortment of your favourite embroidery threads

* An assortment of your favourite fabric scraps. Bring a nice variety of sizes, colours, shades and

patterns

* A cherished piece of linen/cotton/something plain as a base fabric, for you to work on and in to.

You may have a treasure at home; enjoy having a rummage! Vintage table cloths, tray cloths,

hankies, linen napkins are all perfect material. This item is a suggestion only! I will be providing you

with a piece of pre-cut fabric in your main kit

* Other items of personal interest, such as old charms, buttons, vintage lace and ribbons, small keys

etc, all of which can be stitched into your work

* A favourite poem, quote or perhaps just a single word (for inspiration)

* Anything you are currently working on that you’d like to show me, including your sketchbooks.

I’m happy to offer advice and hopefully inspire new creative ideas

Bear in mind that pre-loved fabrics and objects will trigger memories and personal narratives. For

instance, a snippet from a worn dress, a collar from a favourite shirt, or a patch from your mum’s old

curtains can all serve as precious materials with personal associations. So focus on selecting and

bringing along items that will evoke a unique narrative for you.

If you have any questions, or would like to discuss any details about your masterclass, please email

or call me directly, via the contact details above.

Inspiration/Techniques/Photography:

Please note that the techniques taught in my masterclasses are for personal use and inspiration only;

they must not be used in commercial projects. No direct photography is permitted of my original art

works/samples. For inspiration/guidance photos during a class please ask me before talking this type

of photo.

Finally, your masterclass will involve fine, detailed work, so don’t forget to bring your

glasses if you need them.