Specifics about the class:

This project was developed to provide a depth of experience in working with German Schwalm. It includes a variety of surface embroidery and open filling patterns commonly used in traditional Schwalm embroidery. Because of the number of topics to cover, the student should have some prior experience with other forms of surface embroidery, such as "plain old embroidery", Crewel, Hedebo, Shisha, or similar types of embroidery.

Work on this project begins in a straightforward manner, by outlining the central circle with chain stitches, which is then surrounded by coral knots. Additional coral knots lead to the leaves, the small hearts and the central flowers. Gradually, the design becomes more complex, as a variety of stitches are added to the shape.

This will be a two-day class. During the first day, we will work the surface stitches that are used to outline shapes, and connect the segments of the design. Included in the surface stitches used are: Chain stitch, coral knots, scalloped buttonhole, elongated buttronhole, padded satin, herringbone stitch, brussels lace, and the long and short stitch.

During day two, we will begin to explore the needle weaving patterns. The open darning patterns are worked with two weights of silk. A total of four different open filling patterns were used for the model, including: Ground, Wave, Star Crossed Heaven, and Roses in God's Fields (a composite patern.) Alternatives will be provided so that each student may create their own unique design.

During class, there will be a review / introduction to the processes unique to surface embroidery such as the marking methods, wrapping a hoop, dressing the hoop, how to change the size of a design, tips on fiber/fabric selection. The course material provides many tips and tricks about this technique, including a discussion of how to create your own Schwalm design, and how to adapt the stitches to other types of projects. A list of additional reference material for future study will be provided.

A kit will be provided with the design pre-marked on the fabric. All surface stitching is done with a soft matte fiber, used in a variety of weights. The open darning patterns are worked in two weights of silk. The class project is done on very firm linen, commonly used in Europe for Schwalm embroidery and imported for use with this project. The white-on-white class model was finished as a wooden tray insert, but the project could also be completed as a pillow, or small doily. The wooden tray is for display purposes only, and is NOT included in the cost of the kit.

The default kit will be provided in an all white color scheme, at a price of $50.00. If arranged with the instructor in advance, ecru threads used on a white background can also be selected. The design measures approximately 7" by 7", and fits nicely inside a Sudberry House 10" square tray.

Some pre-work is necessary to provide working grids. These grids will be used to practice the open darning patterns, since there will not be time in class to finish the surface embroidery surrounding the cut areas.

Student should bring to class: Standard stitching tools, a high quality, medium sized wooden hoop (6 to 7 inch) preferably wrapped, a ultra fine point blue disappearing ink pen.

This class will be held: