I haven’t done any embroidery before, can I do this?
While many of my students do other needlework, anyone with patience and persistence should be able to learn. Practice matters more than previous experience. Of course, some manual dexterity is required, as well as the ability to sit for some time. Magnifiers are allowed for those with ‘older’ eyes!
What’s a ‘Phase’?
I follow the Center’s curriculum that teaches the techniques in stages, called Phases. Several designs are available at each phase. As students progress through the Phases, they practice the techiques they already know and add new ones to complete the design. Phases 1-3 are introductions to the basic techniques. Phases 4-9 emphasize specific areas while Phase 10 is the ‘graduation’ where all 46 techiques are used. After the first few phases, most students work on other designs as well to add variety and practice.
Is it expensive?
It seems that way when you start, since you need to buy tools such as needles, frame and tekobari (a thread-laying tool). But those tools are one-time purchases. Fabric and fibers (silk and metal threads) are purchased as needed for each design, plus class fees. With each project, you build up supplies that can be reused as well. As with many other hobbies, you can spend a lot of money if you choose to. Cost per hour is definitely lower than a round of golf!
Can I try it without spending too much?
Absolutely! See the description of the Taste pieces here.
How many classes does it take to learn the techniques for a Phase?
A beginner can learn everything required to complete Phase I (Hanazume) in two weekends, provided considerable ‘homework’ is done in between. With later phases, more classes may be needed. Since everyone moves at their own pace, how fast they move depends on how much work they are able to do at home.
How long does it take to finish a picture?
It depends on the size and complexity, of course. My phase 7 piece (Camellias) was about 40 hours of work, Kusadama (Phase 10) was over 200. Some pieces go far beyond that. I’ve done several miniatures that were less than 15 hours.
Can I start any time or do I have to wait for a Beginner class?
You can start any time. See How To Start page. There will be stitchers at all levels in the classroom. I help everyone as they need it, but of course there will be lots of extra time and attention for beginners and those starting new pieces.
Why do the classes take a whole day or even a whole weekend?
The classes are almost entirely actual stitching time and one-on-one instruction is given at the appropriate time and level for each student. For starting a new piece, two days gives plenty of time for practicing new techniques. At some locations, there is a one day option for stitchers who have conflicts from time to time. But most students welcome the chance to have un-interrupted time to devote to their work.