The design for this kit was inspired by the iconic Medieval floor tiles in Winchester Cathedral, where some original examples still exist today. They were thought to be a popular choice of flooring at the time and to have existed in many buildings, including Hampton Court Palace. Sadly, not many examples survive today, which makes those in Winchester Cathedral so special.
The simple motifs found on these floor tiles lend themselves to the counted embroidery technique of Blackwork, which was popular in the Tudor period to embellish clothing when counted decorative patterns were stitched on to white linen using black threads.

The Tutor has chosen to use copper thread for the metalwork application as a reference to the terracotta clay that would have been used to make the original tiles. The project uses a selection of 4 different counted Blackwork stitches (including a darning stitch), and the basic metalwork techniques of felt padding, couching and chipping.

The kit includes fabric with printed design lines, DMC threads, Copper metal threads, felt, needles, wax thread conditioner, basic velvet board and instruction booklet.

The class kit will include everything you require to complete the project. You may like to bring your own embroidery scissors and you will be able to borrow ring frames, magnifiers and lights (if needed) on the day.

Please note this is an onsite class which will run from 10am-4pm at Hampton Court Palace, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9AU.

You can explore many more stitches on the RSN Stitch Bank.

If you enjoy this class with Anita please click here to view her other classes.

Please see provider website to view important joining information about Hampton Court courses.