Illustrated stitch: a masterclass with Rosie James

About this course

Participants will observe city life through photographs and drawings of people, crowds, buildings and urban details. They will rework these images, transfer them onto cloth and explore how fabric and paper can be combined in textile compositions. Teaching includes demonstrations for the whole group and individual guidance, with opportunities for discussion and feedback. Techniques include sewing-machine drawing, free-machine embroidery, appliqué using bondaweb, and composing a finished stitched illustration of the city.

What you'll learn

• Create considered photographs of crowds and urban details
• Develop drawings from photographic references
• Transfer drawn or photographic imagery onto cloth
• Use a sewing machine for free-machine embroidery
• Attach fabric and paper to a background using bondaweb
• Compose and design a finished stitched artwork

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners from beginner to expert level. Beginners will have time to practise free-machine techniques, while more experienced participants can develop more complex work. Learners should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions and take part in group discussion.

• Teaching combines group demonstrations with individual guidance.
• Discussion and feedback form part of the course.
• No work outside class is required, although learners may choose to develop drawings, ideas or sewing-machine practice independently.

Before you go

• Basic materials are included.
• Bring a camera to the first session; a phone can be used.
• Photographs taken for the course need to be printed, which may involve an additional cost.