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:

SPECIAL EVENT: Candy Color Thread Painting with Danielle Clough (@fiance_knowles)

Choose your session: Saturday, August 9th OR Sunday, August 10th from 10am–5pm

embroidered pile of all sorts candy in rainbow colors

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn embroidery in-person from world-famous fiber artist Danielle Clough (a.k.a. Fiance Knowles)! These are the only workshops she’s leading in the Midwest during her trip to the States.

I’ve taken one of Danielle’s classes and they are so kind, thoughtful, inclusive, and fun. She has considered every detail—from the materials she schlepps in her luggage from South Africa to how she encourages personal expression while ensuring a satisfying finished product. It’s truly an experience to remember.

In this workshop, you’ll learn (non-intimidating) color theory, color blending and how to use direction to create dimension with thread. We cover basic embroidery stitches and contemporary techniques and merge all your newfound learnings into a candy-inspired embroidery project (not the exact one pictured—we’ll work on something more manageable 😊). We will embrace our own stitch-styles and discover our unique voices in this magical medium. Suitable for all levels of stitchers, including beginners.

For every student in the class, Danielle has personally created a super luxe, 26-piece kit (including things like LDH rainbow snips and a bepoke needle minder) so you can keep on with your new project at a leisurely pace.

These two workshop dates are bound to sell out lickety split (Danielle doesn’t travel to the U.S. often), so don’t wait to secure your spot!

Register for Saturday, August 9th

Register for Sunday, August 10th

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.