Judith Williams has always had a deep passion for embroidery and textiles, but despite years of experience in various hand embroidery techniques, she felt her own creativity was being stifled. After retiring, Judith decided it was the perfect time to fully immerse herself in her craft and explore her own creative potential. Searching for a course that would not only teach her new techniques but also help her build confidence in her own designs, she chose to enrol onto our Beginner Hand Embroidery course (Skill Stage 2.)
Judith shares her experience of learning with the School of Stitched Textiles; the comprehensive online structure, access to detailed coursework, supportive tutors, and a vibrant online community of fellow students. This experience not only reignited her passion for hand embroidery but also empowered her to create her own unique designs. Inspired by her progress, Judith has now enrolled onto our Skill Stage 3 Hand Embroidery course to continue her journey in hand embroidery.
“For anymore who is passionate about hand embroidery and considering thinking about developing their skills or has an interest in hand embroidery and wishes to learn more, I thoroughly recommend enrolling with School of Stitched Textiles.”
Judith Williams
I have been passionate about embroidery and textiles since childhood. Over the years I’ve lots of hand embroidery; mainly cross stitch, but also other peoples’ designs and kits. However, I always felt that I wasn’t developing my own creativity.
I was nervous about learning new techniques and different types of embroidery to even attempt them. For a long time, I wanted to design and embroider my own designs but I had little experience in sketching and designing. I had been considering undertaking an accredited course as I like having an end point to aim for and I think this type of course would achieve this. It would also teach me the skills and new techniques in hand embroidery to do this.
Motivation for Studying
I had done several workshops in various types of hand embroidery which were enjoyable, however again I didn’t feel they were developing my own creativity because it was always a case of following the tutors’ own designs. When I retired recently, I decided that I have the time to enjoy my favourite passion. So, after much consideration I decided it was the time to undertake an accredited course. My aim was to develop my own skills in hand embroidery and create my own designs for future projects.
After researching different options online I chose and enrolled with School of Stitched Textiles Hand Embroidery Skill Stage 2 because I wanted to start at the beginning and develop my skills and confidence. I chose School of Stitched Textiles because it was an online course and easily accessible and I didn’t have to travel. I chose skill level 2 as it gave me an excellent starting point to develop my skills and confidence from researching inspirational artists, learning about the design process from sketching to designing future projects and learning new techniques.
Course Review
The provided coursework is very detailed and guides you through the process with different tasks. If you ever need advice and help your tutor is easily available by email. The guides and examples of previous presentations on the School of Stitch Textiles Facebook page are very useful and are an excellent starting point especially if you’re nervous and apprehensive at the start of the course. The online sessions with other students and tutors is great for ideas and help, and you don’t feel alone at home.
I also learnt different techniques which I hadn’t attempted before such as blackwork, drawn thread work and Hardanger and I was feeling nervous about starting these. However, I thoroughly enjoyed them and it gave me the confidence to develop these techniques further.
Future plans
I thoroughly enjoyed this course very much and it has reignited my passion in hand embroidery. I have since enrolled onto the Hand Embroidery Skill Stage 3 course to develop my skills further and learn new and different techniques.
For anymore who is passionate about hand embroidery and considering thinking about developing their skills or has an interest in hand embroidery and wishes to learn more, I thoroughly recommend enrolling with School of Stitched Textiles.
