Materials
Introduction & Materials Overview
Welcome!
How does the course work?
All of the content (videos, lessons and and instructions) is available right now here in the student portal. I suggest that you work through the modules in order as the course has been structured to progress in this way. The beauty of undertaking a course like this is that you can work at your own pace and you can revisit lessons as many times as you wish.
It's a good idea to bookmark the login page https://courses.racheldrakeart.com/login and then all you have to do is simply login (don't forget to save your password) so you've got quick and easy access to the course whenever you want.
You can click through to the next lesson by using the arrow in the bottom right corner of each page.
At the bottom of each page you will also see that there is a comments section where you can leave any questions and comments regarding the course content. I aim to respond within 24 to 48 hours.
In this course, I’ll build on the ideas from Textile Foiling and take them a step further through stitching and surface development. Whether you’re continuing from the previous course or joining me for the first time, you’ll discover how to use hand and machine embroidery to add texture, detail, and personality to your textile pieces.
This isn’t about mastering complex stitches — it’s about exploring simple, accessible techniques and using them creatively to inspire your own mixed media and textile work. You’ll be encouraged to play, combine materials, and see how stitching can transform your foiled surfaces into something rich, layered, and expressive.
Materials You’ll Need for the Course
Here’s a list of the core materials for this course. Gather what you already have — this is all about experimenting rather than perfection!
Embroidery Threads – A selection of colours adds depth and texture. DMC stranded cotton or similar works beautifully.
Sewing Threads for Machine Embroidery – Choose a variety of colours to experiment with different textures and finishes.
Base Fabrics (Felt, Cotton, Linen) – Strong, stable fabrics ideal for stitching and layering.
Textured Fabrics – Try broderie anglaise, bumpy weaves, or any fabrics with interesting surfaces to stitch into.
Organza (Various Colours) – Great for layering and creating transparency in your stitched compositions.
Foils – A selection of colours if you want variety in your samples.
Bondaweb & Mistyfuse – Lightweight fusible webs perfect for layering and bonding fabrics.
Stencils – For use with foiling adhesive.
Acrylic Paint (1–2 Colours)
Paintbrushes and old credit card – For applying/spreading adhesive and paint.
Craft Knife/Sharp Scissors & Cutting Mat – For precise cutting or stencil work.
Baking Parchment/Greaseproof Paper – Protects your iron and workspace if you’re adding foil or fusing layers.
Sewing Machine – For exploring free machine embroidery techniques.
Suppliers (UK)
Foils:
Great for standard foils - pack 5 x A4 sheets £4 (+ postage).
Amazing variety of specialist patterned foils - Make sure you buy textile-friendly foils as they stock foils for furniture as well.
Adhesives:
Foil adhesive available in two sizes
Mistyfuse (Also available from Amazon)
Bondaweb (Also available on Amazon and other online shops)