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 new Lakeview/Roscoe location. Maydel hosts teachers from all over, as well as beloved locals Lauren Yeager, Jake Wobig, Lucy Leith, Sunyoung Seo, Stephanie Rohr, Shannon Downey, Connie Toebe and Jean Ogilvie.

Coming up next:

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

Introduction to Goldwork with Lauren Yeager

Saturday, June 13th from 10am–4pm

In this class, students will learn several basic goldwork techniques for creating 3-D embroidery designs with real metal threads. From costuming, to military uniforms, to ecclesiastical vestments, goldwork features prominently in many historical examples of embroidery for garment making, jewelry, and 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.

warm colored stitches embroidery sampler on dark gray striped fabric in a hoop

Embroidery Foundations with Lauren Yeager

Sunday, June 21st from 10am–3:30pm

Students will spend the day practicing several of the most commonly used embroidery stitches as they create a sampler to showcase what they’ve learned. Great for ambitious beginners who want an introduction to professional-style techniques as well as stitchers who want to brush up on their skills. This class will leave you ready to tackle most commercially available embroidery patterns at the end of the day.

Sashiko 101 with Sunyoung Seo

Sunday, June 28th, from 10:30am–2:30pm

Discover the beauty of authentic Sashiko in this immersive 4-hour workshop, where you’ll be guided through the fundamental rules and philosophy behind this traditional Japanese stitching technique using a palm thimble.

You’ll practice core skills using a stitching exercise sampler, building confidence as you learn the ladder stitch and how to create a clean, hidden knot. After learning Sashiko stitching, you’ll apply your skills to craft a finished Sashiko coaster while gaining a strong foundation for further exploration of Sashiko.

Open to all skill levels, including beginners.

Registration fee includes the cost of all materials.

beginner embroidery class community comunidad

Get Started with Embroidery with Jean Ogilvie

Thursday, Jul 23rd from 5:30–8:30pm

Build your embroidery skills within a supportive craft community!

This beginner class teaches the basics for those new to embroidery or looking to improve their fundamentals. Students are welcome to use the provided pattern or to draw their own design using a few simple lines and fill shapes.

In addition to threading needles, tying knots, stretching fabric in a hoop, and starting/finishing stitches, we will work our way through the following techniques:

Straight stitch
Back stitch
Stem stitch
Satin stitch

No prior sewing experience needed. Pattern will be available in English and Spanish.

tambour hooks and sequins scattered on a black background

Intro to Tambour Embroidery with Lauren Yeager

Saturday, August 15th AND Sunday, August 16th, 10am–4pm

Learn how to embroider like the famous French couture houses in this 2-day workshop.

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, organza fabric and gloving thread.

Tambour is a professional technique, so this class is best for those with some prior hand sewing or embroidery experience.

Monthly open stitch nights

Come join new and old friends for two hours of casual crafting in a supportive environment. Bring your own project or purchase one in-store. We have scissors, threaders, and other tools available for use. Please refrain from bringing anything that might stain our tables or floors, such as colored drinks, or paints.

Takes place on the second Tuesday of every month from 6–8pm. Always free to attend. 2026 dates:

January 13th
February 10th
March 10th
April 14th (Yom HaShoah)
May 12th
June 9th
July 14th
August 11th
September 8th
October 13th
November 10th
December 8th

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.