In this class, students will learn about the history of redwork quilts and how this type of embroidery can be used to make beautiful, delicate botanical illustrations. Redwork is a type of stitching, primarily in red but also often in blue and black, that rose in popularity in the late 1800s. Patterns were published by magazines and could be purchased for a penny, so they were called “penny squares.” Themes varied, but some of the most beautiful redwork depicts nature-related themes, making it a perfect medium for stitching your favorite ecological imagery. In this class, students will research native plants in their area and create designs based on four of those plants. We will then learn to transfer those images onto fabric, prepare our hoops, and start stitching. We will learn the basic redwork stitches - backstitch, running stitch, stem stitch, and french knots and tips on how to best deploy them for varying line quality. Finally, students will learn how to stitch together a basic small quilt using their embroideries. A great class for nature-lovers, gardeners, and anyone who is new to embroidery! 

Sign up through the Smithsonian Associates Program here.

Thursdays, June 1-15, 2023, 10:00am -12:00pm