Maydel Chicago - Craft Classes in Embroidery and More

World-class needlework instruction has come to Chicago! Whether you’re looking for the gentlest possible introduction to embroidery or an in-depth technique intensive, chances are you’ll find it at our flagship Ravenswood location. Maydel hosts teachers from all over, as well as beloved locals Lauren Yeager, Stephanie Rohr, Shannon Downey, Connie Toebe and Jean Ogilvie.

Coming up next:

An embroidery stitch sampler of small geometric designs in bright primary colors on dark blue fabric

Stitch Builders: Textured Stitches with Lauren Yeager

Saturday, June 28th from 10am–3:30pm

This class is part of Lauren Yeager’s Stitch Builders series, which is perfect for both beginning and intermediate stitchers. In each class, students will spend the day practicing 8 different embroidery stitches as they create a sampler to showcase what they’ve learned. The June 28th session will cover a group of raised and woven stitches used to add texture, including:

Raised stem band
Whipped wheel
Woven wheel
Picot
Turkey work
Raised chain band
Bullion knot
Pistol stitch

The Stitch Builders series will also introduce you to foundational embroidery skills such as how to thread the needle, how to start and end your threads, and how to use an embroidery hoop. Class fee includes all necessary supplies.

goldwork embroidery leaf with spangles on blue fabric in a wooden hoop

Introduction to Goldwork with Lauren Yeager

Saturday, September 6th from 10am–4pm

In this class, students will learn several basic goldwork techniques that feature prominently in many historical examples of goldwork embroidery for both garment making as well as for furnishings. Students will create a raised leaf that can be finished as a framed piece or a cutwork brooch.

This class is best for students with some prior experience with embroidery or hand sewing.

Techniques included:

Basic identification of several metalwork threads
Metal thread handling
Proper thread waxing
Cut work
Couching
Goldwork applique
Applying spangles

Registration fee includes the cost of all needed materials.

tambour hooks and sequins scattered on a black background

Introduction to Tambour Embroidery with Lauren Yeager – special weekday session!

Monday, September 8th and Tuesday, September 9th from 10am–4pm

Learn how to embroider like the famous French couture houses in this 2-day workshop. This is a special weekday edition for theater folks and other weekend warriors.

Tambour embroidery uses a tambour hook on framed fabric to create an efficient method for embellishing fabric in a variety of ways using a linked chain stitch. In this two-day workshop students will learn the basics of fabric set up, fabric transfer methods, and a selection of techniques widely used for creating elaborate works on a sheer ground.

Techniques will include:

Basic chain, starting and stopping a lock stitch
Chain Stitch for Filled Areas, Reverse Chain Fill, and Herringbone
Basic Sequin application, Directional Sequin Cascade, and Flat Stitched Sequin.
Seed bead application, Bugle bead application, Alternating Beads for Creating Patterns.

Price includes all materials, including a wooden tambour handle, 3 tambour hook needles, sequins, beads, fabric and thread. Students will be able to choose from several color palettes on the first day of class.

Private classes and tutoring

To book a private embroidery class in our studio (many levels and techniques available), please get in touch. Private classes require a $150 non-refundable deposit and a minimum of 4 students. Private embroidery tutoring is also available, with pricing set individually by teachers.