About Jessie Chorley

Jessie Chorley is a London-based textile artist, specialising in embroidery and paper crafts. Born in Kent in1980, she spent her childhood in North Wales, before moving to London to study for the BA in Fine Art Textile Practice at Goldsmiths College. While still a student, she chose to dedicate her life to making beautiful things by hand and, shortly after graduating, she set up her own business as a full-time designer and maker. Over time, she has also become an author, social artist and tutor, as well as running an independent shop/studio selling her work in East London from 2007 to 2021.
Jessie now delivers workshops internationally at venues that include the V&A Museum and The Foundling Museum, both in London, the Bluecoat Display Centre, Liverpool and West Dean College, West Sussex. She also runs her private studio and workshop in South London.

About the Workshop

This workshop focuses on my signature style of hand embroidered illustration. We will explore several stitching techniques, including couching, running, stem, seed and back stitch, as well as the use of hand stitched text. I will also help you get started with simple appliqué and patching.
The workshop will start with a short talk by me, Jessie. I will show you a selection of my original artwork and there will also be time for your questions. I will then direct you, both as a group and individually, as you embark on your journey of creating your own stitched story in my signature style.
Firstly, you will choose to work either on a flat, layered fabric panel, or to construct and work on a simple, folded fabric book, using appliqué and hand stitching as your main techniques. The natural fabric for both will be part of the kit that you will be given at the start of your workshop. This kit will also contain a selection of pre-cut fabric motifs, ready for you to appliqué directly on to your work.
I encourage you to enjoy this creative workshop, without focusing too much on finishing your work. Instead, I suggest you approach this day as an explorative, peaceful slow-stitching experience, embracing and learning new techniques while being inspired by my original artworks and materials that surround you. Bring your sketchbook and make notes to help you finish your work, if necessary, at home.

£200
2 day workshop
10-4.30

includes all materials & refreshments - please bring along lunch or alternatively visit one of the two Cafes on site as well as an award winning farm shop.