june, 2025
This is a repeating event1st july 2025 10:00 am
Event Details
Heritage Craft Workshop: Stitch a Goldwork Bee
With textile artist Lou Withers
Step into the rich world of heritage embroidery and spend a full day learning the exquisite art of goldwork; one shimmering stitch at a time.
This immersive workshop, led by renowned textile artist, Lou Withers, guides you through the process of creating a beautifully detailed hand-stitched goldwork bee — a symbol of industry, elegance and Manchester pride.
What is it?
A one-day, skills-based embroidery workshop exploring traditional goldwork techniques. Scroll down for more info.
Who is it for?
Anyone who can make a basic stitch and is ready to learn something new — no experience with goldwork needed.
What’s included?
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Full day of expert tuition (10am–4pm)
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All materials provided, including enough to make a second bee at home
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A light lunch and refreshments throughout the day
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Your very own hand-stitched goldwork bee to take home
What will I gain?
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A stunning embroidered bee created with your own hands
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New or enhanced needlework skills
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A sense of calm, focus, and creative satisfaction
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A day of mindful making in beautiful, peaceful surroundings
What do I need to bring?
Just yourself, your enthusiasm, and reading glasses (if you wear them).
When?
Sunday, 29th June or Tuesday, 1st July 2025, 10:00am – 4:00pm
Booking Info
Tickets: £100 (full-day experience)
Includes all materials, tuition, lunch & refreshments.
Places are limited – early booking is advised.
Tap here to book for 29th June session
Tap here to book for 1st July session
About goldwork embroidery
During the Middle Ages, England developed a particularly skilled style known as Opus Anglicanum, which was widely used in church textiles. Goldwork became a symbol of wealth and status, adorning the clothing of nobility and clergy across Europe.
Royal garments
Goldwork embroidery has a rich and fascinating history that spans over 2,000 years. It originated in Asia and was prized for its shimmering effect, making it a favourite for royal garments, religious vestments, and military regalia
Goldwork is the use of various types of metal threads and embellishments to adorn fabric. Threads include passing (a silk or synthetic core wrapped in very thin strips of metal), purls (hollow tubes of metal of various descriptions) and twists (multiple strands of very fine passing twisted together); embellishments include spangles (small circles of gold with a small break, similar to sequins) and kid leather covered with metal foil. Threads are normally couched down, threaded like a bead or applied.
Effects of light
Padding is used extensively in goldwork to maximise the effects of light on the metal; various materials are used to create different effects including string, felt, vellum and cardboard.
Most of the metal thread stays on the surface of the fabric, partly because most of the threads are impractical to take through the fabric and partly for reasons of economy.
Evolution
Goldwork embroidery has evolved beyond its traditional use in royal garments and religious vestments to find a place in modern fashion, interior design, and contemporary art. Here are some exciting ways Goldwork is being used today:
· High Fashion: Designers incorporate Goldwork into couture gowns, accessories, and runway pieces, adding a luxurious touch to modern garments.
· Interior Design: Goldwork is used in decorative textiles, upholstery, and wall art, bringing an opulent feel to interiors.
· Costume Design: The technique is widely used in theatre, film, and television, especially in period dramas and fantasy productions.
· Contemporary Art: Artists experiment with Goldwork in mixed-media pieces and installations, blending embroidery with modern materials.
· Personalized Embroidery: Many artisans create bespoke Goldwork designs for wedding dresses, ceremonial attire, and custom commission
About Lou Withers
Instagram: @louwithers
Facebook: Mindful Moodling™
Event enquiries: [email protected]
Directions to the Monastery here.