Introduction & Materials Overview

Welcome to the course! 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.

Foiled & Stitched Textiles Material List (136 KB)

Suppliers (UK)

Foils:

Handprinted.co.uk

Great for standard foils - pack 5 x A4 sheets £4 (+ postage).

Bailleasinteriors.co.uk

Amazing variety of specialist patterned foils - Make sure you buy textile-friendly foils as they stock foils for furniture as well.

Adhesives:

Handprinted.co.uk

Foil adhesive available in two sizes

MidsomerQuilting

Mistyfuse (Also available from Amazon)

Barnyarns

Bondaweb (Also available on Amazon and other online shops)