I’m so excited to be a part of the faculty for the Preserving Needle Art: EGA National Seminar in Atlanta. More details soon and if you are in Boston- please check out my class offerings at the Seminar Exhibition!
Stitching the Color of Place
In this workshop, participants will study a landscape of their choice and develop a series of stitched color studies inspired by their chosen landscapes. Within the workshop, we will analyze the landscape's color relationships and break them down to understand various ways to build color perceptions with stitching that reflect the landscape colors.
I’d love to see you there!
I’ll be there with my exhibition “Longing to Belong”.
Using roadside flora as a metaphor, this series of textile works allowed Katherine to process her experiences and observations of our human need for belonging. Humans need to belong, to feel they are an integral and necessary part of a place or community. Yet, this feeling of belonging does not always come naturally for some, even within a populated area or social group. Roadside plants and weeds convey bravery, vulnerability, and resilience when considering their ability to thrive despite their environments. They can appear wild and beautiful, simultaneously emerging seemingly misplaced yet bravely anchored in the place they inhabit.
Each piece reflects time spent with the plants in fields and along roadsides of Caldwell and Iredell Counties in North Carolina. Katherine has combined digital printing, eco-printing, and various forms of stitching to create the pieces. Digital printing on fabric and paper impregnated with wildflower seeds reflected the plants through Katherine's gaze. Alternatively, eco-prints that Katherine has created with elements of the flora yielded marks directly from the plants, thus creating a collaboration between plant and artist. The stitching techniques utilized are combinations of quilting, a textile technique steeped in a rich heritage of community, and intricate silk and metal embroidery techniques, using contemporary manipulations to soften the traditional feel. The metal threads used are all offcasts and damaged bits left over from previous projects, lovingly saved for pieces that celebrate the tarnish and hide the damage through manipulating the techniques.
By isolating the plant images and exploring various layering methods, these compositions study roadside flora and their perceived characteristics to consider what it means and how it feels to struggle with the human need to belong. Foraging and stitching roadside plants provided time to contemplate what it means to belong and fostered empathy for others similarly longing to belong.
Marin Golden Threads, virtual, November 5-6 and December 3-4, 2022
Cornflower, contemporary goldwork embroidery virtual workshop
Smocking Arts Guild of America, virtual, November 12 and 19, 2022
Christmas Tree, contemporary metal embroidery and beading, 2-day virtual workshop
Gregg Pink Blossom:
Inspired by the floral embroidery on a pair of men’s waistcoats from the Gregg Museum Collection at North Carolina State University, this floral design blends silk and goldwork techniques including satin stitch, stem stitch, spangles, and various cutwork techniques. The finished product measures 3” x 5”. Images of the reference pieces will be shown during the workshop with the gracious permission of the Gregg Museum.
Kit includes metallic linen with cotton backing fabric and pre-printed design outline, silk embroidery threads, metal embroidery wires, gilt spangles, and needles.
Skill level: All (hand sewing or embroidery experience is recommended)
Kit: $150
3 hours
Offered: October 6, 2:30 pm, and October 7, 9:00 am
Register for the Conference and Workshop here: https://www.winterthur.org/calendar/needlework-conference/
305 Hello Mr. Cardinal
Taught by Katherine Diuguid (View Bio)
August 27, 2022 - August 28, 2022
New York, NY
Register here: https://egausa.org/seminar-2022-classes/
Mixing contemporary goldwork with traditional embroidery, this whimsical bird feeder design offers a wonderful sampling of different techniques incorporating both counted and non-counted surface embroidery.
Technique: Traditional and creative embroidery techniques
Proficiency: All skill levels
Design Area: 4” X 8”
Kit Fee: $100
Kit Content: 18 count Aida cloth backed with cotton, embroidery floss, metal embroidery wires, leather kid, instructions.
Student Provides: 8”- 10” hoop or stretcher bars and embroidery scissors, usual stitching supplies.
205 Spider Mum | Encore
Taught by Katherine Diuguid (View Bio)
August 24, 2022 - August 25, 2022
New York, NY
Register here: https://egausa.org/seminar-2022-classes/
Using the inspiring motif of a Spider Mum, participants will be introduced to basic linear embroidery stitches and silk shading. We will explore these stitches and how to mix colors and change line weight to create different effects as participants render the petals for their own unique beautiful Spider Mum. The leaves will introduce participants to silk shading for naturalistic shading.
Technique: Basic Traditional Embroidery Techniques including: running stitch, back stitch, stem stitch, split stitch and French knots
Level of Proficiency: All skill levels welcome, hand sewing or embroidery experience is recommended
Design Area: 5″ X 7″ on 40 count linen
Kit Fee: $75
Kit Content: 40 count linen with transferred design, 100% cotton plain weave for backing, Weeks Dye Works embroidery floss, embroidery needles, instructions.
Student Provides: 8″ – 10″ hoop or frame, scissors, light, magnifier if needed,
usual stitching supplies.
12 Week Online Course with Kat!
Seascapes are magical places. The distant expanse over the water can change so quickly from fierce to complete serenity. Artists have tried to capture this magic, to interpret the wildness of the sea. Through focused color study and sampling, participants will explore the color of Impressionists' seascapes and become inspired to create their own seascape-inspired composition. The course will be comprised of two parts. The first portion of the course will present foundational color theory concepts that we will then analyze in different seascapes, both paintings and embroidery, to explore the application of the color concepts. Participants will stitch a series of samples that will help to synthesize this knowledge. The last portion of the course will allow you to apply what you have learned and interpret a seascape of your own (this can be as abstract or naturalistic as you hope!).
Each week of instruction will have a different focus. There will be a combination of both recorded and live lectures. The live lectures will be available for a limited time for those that cannot make the live Zoom. We will meet every other week to discuss the concepts covered and to review your work and any questions that may arise. The first portion of the course will present foundational color theory concepts that we will then analyze in different seascapes to better understand those concepts. The last portion of the course will provide the opportunity to apply what we have learned and interpret a seascape of your own (this can be as abstract or naturalistic as you hope!). Discussion (both via Zoom and via online forums) will be an important part of this course as we will both discuss the paintings in-depth and the color samples stitched in response.
This course will have 12 weeks of instruction beginning on 1 August 2022 and running through 31 October 2022. There will be off weeks of August 24 and October 7. Live meetings will be alternating Tuesday evenings 6-8pm EDT. Course materials will be available until 31 January 2023.
More information: https://katdiuguid.thinkific.com/courses/Colors-of-the-sea
304 Spider Mum by Katherine Diuguid
Using the inspiring motif of a spider mum, you will be introduced to basic embroidery techniques and to a naturalistic shading technique. The spider mum blossom will incorporate a variety of linear stitches with colour mixing to interpret the beautiful gradients in each petal. The foliage will introduce you to the long and short technique.
Technique: surface | Skill level: all | Pre-work: none | Homework: none | Size: 13 x 18 cm (5 x 7 in) | Kit cost: $95
Register here: https://eac-acb.ca/seminar/classes/two-day-classes-2/
204 Colour Interactions in Embroidery by Katherine Diuguid
This course introduces students to the colour theory of Impressionist painters and applies this knowledge to colour mixing in embroidery. Students will be guided through a series of exercises to challenge their colour mixing with thread utilizing basic embroidery stitches. Each student will work on a sampler of basic stitches and will compile a notebook of references and resources addressing embroidery and colour theory. Embroidery techniques addressed include basic embroidery stitches such as straight stitch, chain stitch, French knots, and cross stitch.
Additionally, students will create a notebook addressing colour mixing and colour theory.
Technique: colour design and theory | Skill Level: beginner | Pre-work: none | Homework: none | Size: 20 cm (8 in) | Kit cost: $75
Register Here: https://eac-acb.ca/seminar/classes/two-day-classes/
hosted at Waterworks Visual Arts Center in Salisbury, NC
Saturday, February 26, 9 AM-4 PM
with Katherine Diuguid
$150 / $135 members
In this workshop, participants will stitch a small needlebook inspired by Katherine's "Weeds" collection. Techniques include Appliqué, Stem Stitch, Running Stitch, French Knots, and Seeding. Finished size is 3”x3”. High-end materials kits provided. All kits include linen, wool felt, cotton embroidery flosses, needles, and instructional booklet.
(Embroidery experience required).
Bring a bag lunch.
More information: https://www.waterworks.org/make-adult-studio-classes
Experiment with stitched textures using basic and metal embroidery techniques to interpret moss and lichen.
Course Description: Utilizing this whimsical beehive design, students will be introduced to a variety of traditional and creative goldwork techniques.
Techniques: Traditional and creative goldwork techniques including the following: couching, cutwork, basketweave cutwork, chipping, s-ing, pearl purl, stem stitch, trench knots, kid, felt padding, and soft string padding.
Finished Dimensions: 4”x6”
Inspired by the floral embroidery on a pair of men’s waistcoats from the Gregg Museum collection at North Carolina State University, this floral design introduces students to traditional and experimental goldwork techniques. Images of the reference pieces will be shown during the workshop with gracious permission of the Gregg Museum.
Techniques that the workshop will include are: traditional and creative goldwork techniques including the following: chain stitch, chipping, s-ing, spangles, french knots, satin stitch, and cutwork.
Workshop held via Zoom.
Course Description: The Dogwood is the state flower of North Carolina and a beautiful emblem of Spring and the hope of new beginnings. This workshop combines shading techniques using thread mixing and stem stitch with contemporary goldwork techniques.
Techniques: Traditional and creative embroidery techniques including the following: stem stitch, thread mixing, trench knots with stretched purl and pearl purl.
Finished Dimension: 3"x3"
More info and to register: https://egausa.org/seminar-2021-classes/
This fun goldenrod design mixes basic embroidery stitches with a contemporary approach to goldwork embroidery. Thread mixing and shading will be discussed for the leaves and buds.
Technique: Contemporary goldwork
Proficiency: All Levels
Kit Cost: $100
Design Area: 3” x 7”
Kit Contents: 36 count linen, Weeks Dye Works and Valdani embroidery flosses, metal wires, embroidery needles and tissue paper.
Student Provides: 12” x 12” stretcher bars or 8” or 10” hoop and usual stitching supplies.
Class is full.
More info: https://egausa.org/seminar-2021-classes/
Taking inspiration from Monet’s haystacks, students will learn a non-traditional approach to quilting and embroidery. Digitally printed images will be layered and stitched to create a composition unique to each student. The piece will be worked without a hoop to allow each student’s hand to alter the tension and naturally shift the image. Traditional embroidery stitches will be used in combination with thread mixing techniques. Creative metal embroidery techniques will be introduced to add texture and dimension.
Technique: Traditional embroidery & color mixing
Proficiency: All Levels
Kit Cost: $90
Design Area: 5” x 7”
Kit Contents: Image digitally printed on cotton sateen and on silk organza, cotton batting, 100% cotton plain weave for backing, DMC metallic floss, variegated 6-stranded embroidery floss, embroidery needles and gilt smooth purl.
Student Provides: Usual stitching supplies.
EGA Online Studio Class:
Registration open: May 15- June 5, 2021
https://egausa.org/courses/red-clover/
Taking inspiration from Victorian botanical illustrations, this design celebrates the beauty of the lowly Red Clover. Incorporating variegated threads and stretched gilt wires with traditional embroidery and padding techniques gives this design a unique blend of traditional and non-traditional appeal. See all the class details below.
Weekly lessons delivered August 4-25, 2021.
This workshop introduces students to the iconic periods throughout history when floral motifs abound in embroidery and are interpreted in styles reflecting each period and culture. The class will take advantage of the natural surroundings of Arrowmont for your sketching and watercolor creations. Participants will design and stitch their own floral-inspired samples and experiment with surface design techniques to complement the stitched details. Open to all skill levels.
Class is closed.
Stitch some Christmas cheer with this limited edition Christmas tree kit! This kit mixes metal embroidery with beading. Workshop will be held via Zoom.
Kit includes: metal threads, metallic leather kid, mixture of tiny glass beads, mixture of medium glass beads and crystals, sewing thread, beeswax and ground fabric. A printed instructional booklet is included with the kit. Virtual instruction is separate.
“Gregg Floral” hosted by the Chesapeake Treasures SAGA chapter
April 6, 10, 13 and 17 from 9:30am-12:30pm EST via Zoom.
Registration due February 10, click here for registration information
Inspired by the floral embroidery on a pair of men’s waistcoats from the Gregg Museum collection at North Carolina State University, this floral design introduces students to traditional and experimental goldwork techniques. Images of the reference pieces will be shown during the workshop with gracious permission of the Gregg Museum.
Techniques that the workshop will include are: traditional and creative goldwork techniques including the following: chain stitch, chipping, s-ing, spangles, french knots, satin stitch, and cutwork.
Come stitch with me for this Snowdrop Workshop hosted by @sarahpdukegardens !
Held February 6 and 13 from 9:30am-12:30pm EST via Zoom.
Snowdrops are often a signal that winter is waning. Author Mandy Kirby describes snowdrops as a flower of consolation and hope, saying “I am come to calm your fears; to console you in the absence of bright days and to reassure you of their return.”
Using this dainty flower, Kat will introduce several embroidery techniques, including split stitch, burden stitch, stem stitch, chain stitch and padded satin stitch. Your finished piece will be a 4”x6” motif stitched in crewel wools on linen.
Register here: https://rsvp.duke.edu/events/duke-gardens-winter-2021-adult-programs/agenda-60be408fffab4ea4863a27cd06c2eb6a.aspx?lang=en
Join Kat for some stitching holiday cheer and stitch your own Christmas Tree! This workshop will be recorded so if you cannot make the Zoom, I will add the recording to the private webpage for the class. A private class webpage with technique videos will be available for participants and will be accessible through the month of December.
Materials: Once you register for this class, you will receive a materials list. Participants are welcome to utilize materials from their stash for this class OR if you would like to purchase a kit, Kat has one available on her website shop ($50+shipping).
Please note: If you opt for a kit, please purchase by 12/1 to allow for shipping time to receive kit before the Zoom workshop.
2 day All the Buzz: Beehive Goldwork Sampler contemporary goldwork workshop
This presentation presents the research on gold work embroidery and hand dressmaking to create my masters thesis project, a bridal gown inspired by the first marriage of Consuelo Vanderbilt to the Duke of Marlborough. I explored the blending of tradition with modernity, as illustrated in the many American Nouveau Riche that “invaded” British society at the end of the 19th Century. Using a traditional vocabulary of ivory satin and silver embroidery, I created a gown that reflected both the bridal decadence of the age and the constrictions that defined Consuelo’s early life.
For reference images of this project, please see the project blog that I kept for it at: http://katdiuguid.blogspot.com/
In this virtual studio tour and discussion, Katherine will open the museum boxes that hold her Consuelo gown, her wedding gown, and her pink Rosie girls dress to show examples of hand embellishment and couture construction details.
Join me on Oct. 10, 17, 24, and 31 from 10-11:30am EST via Zoom as @sarahpdukegardens hosts "Spider Mum: An Embroidery Workshop with Kat Diuguid".
Using the inspiring motif of a spider mum, you will be introduced to basic embroidery techniques and to a naturalistic shading technique. The spider mum blossom will incorporate a variety of linear stitches with color mixing to interpret the beautiful gradients in each petal. The foliage will introduce you to the long and short technique.
Finished piece is a 5”x7” image on linen. All skill levels welcome; hand sewing or embroidery experience recommended.
4 Saturdays, Oct. 10-31, from 10-11:30 a.m.
Class size limited to 15 participants.
Fee includes instruction and a mailed materials kit: $199; Gardens members receive a 20% discount upon registration.
https://gardens.duke.edu/events
This workshop introduces students to the iconic periods throughout history when floral motifs abound in embroidery and are interpreted in styles reflecting each period and culture. During class you will take advantage of the natural surroundings of Arrowmont for your creations. Participants will design and stitch their own floral-inspired samples and experiment with surface design techniques including eco-printing and various methods of direct application to complement the stitched details. Open to all skill levels.
For more information: Flights of Floral Fancy at Arrowmont with Kat Diuguid
Check Out Kat's Master's Thesis Project "Consuelo: Glitter of a Dollar Duchess"
Katherine Diuguid
katdiuguiddesigns@gmail.com
All photos, sketches and text are ⓒ 2011-2023 Katherine Diuguid. They are not to be reproduced or used without my personal written consent. Please be sure to credit my work appropriately using my name and site.
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