Description

Chicken Scratch Embroidery Workshop with Carolyn Forster

One-Day Workshop: 10.00am – 4.00pm
Skill Level: All Levels

Workshop Overview

Explore Chicken Scratch embroidery, a classic hand-stitching technique on gingham that transforms simple stitches into delicate, lacy patterns. In this full-day workshop, you’ll experiment with traditional stitches reimagined for a modern twist, creating your own unique, textured designs on checked fabric samples.

The class coincides with the launch of Carolyn Forster’s new book, Chicken Scratch Embroidery, and her specially curated Aurifil thread collection.

Join best-selling author Carolyn Forster and learn how to stitch stunning gingham embroidery designs in this hands-on workshop. Discover simple, versatile stitches and create beautiful motifs perfect for on-the-go embroidery projects.

Chicken Scratch embroidery—also known as Amish embroidery, Broderie Suisse, Depression Lace, Hoover Lace, Snowflake Embroidery, Australian Cross Stitch, and Tenerife Lace—is an easy-to-learn technique that transforms a few simple stitches on gingham into delicate, lace-like patterns. The size and colour of the gingham squares, along with your choice of thread, allow you to create designs ranging from elegantly simple to intricately detailed.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the skills and confidence to explore your own unique designs, turning basic stitches into beautiful, textured embroidery that can be applied to home décor, accessories, and gifts.

Requirements

Please bring with you or purchase on the day

  • 2 or more 10inch squares of 1/4 inch gingham fabric, available to purchase on the day.
  • Stranded embroidery thread to match the light and dark squares of your fabric
  • Scissors for trimming fabric
  • Thimble
  • Embroidery needles of preference, needle threader, optional
  • 6in/8in embroidery hoop, optional
  • Pins, needles, and basic sewing kit

About Carolyn Forster

Carolyn Forster is a quilt designer, teacher, and author based in Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Since self-publishing her first book, Quilting on the Go (2007), she has written ten more quilting books with Search Press (UK) and Landauer Publishing (USA), including Big Stitch Quilting.

A regular contributor to magazines such as Today’s Quilter and international quilting publications, Carolyn’s work celebrates scrappy, eclectic design. Her quilts are deeply rooted in tradition, inspired by quilt makers of the past. Carolyn’s teaching philosophy is centred on accessibility, helping every quilter build confidence and develop their own creative voice.

Additional Information

☕ Lunch Information

Please bring a packed lunch (a cool bag is recommended).
Nearby options include Subway, Bakery 79, and Tesco.
Tea and coffee will be provided throughout the day.

🛍️ Shopping Opportunity

Take time to browse our Warehouse Shop before, during breaks, or after the class — the perfect chance to stock up on fabrics, notions, and supplies!

🚗 Parking

Free parking is available at the warehouse.
Please park in the designated car park at the bottom of the building to ensure access for disabled visitors and delivery vehicles.

📅 Cancellation Policy

If  We Cancel:
In rare cases, a workshop may be cancelled. Should this happen, we will:

  • Offer an alternative date (if available), or

  • Provide a full refund.
    Cancellations will be made no later than 48 hours before the workshop.
    Please note we cannot reimburse travel, accommodation, or material costs.

If  You Cancel:

  • 14 days’ notice or more: refund available (minus 10% admin fee) or transfer to another class.

  • Less than 14 days’ notice: refund or transfer not available.

We appreciate your understanding — early notice allows us to offer your place to another attendee.

Location

Lady Sew and Sew
Farm Road
Henley on Thames
Oxfordshire
RG9 1EJ
UK

Tel: 01491 572 528

Remember to share your completed projects on our Facebook and Instagram pages.