Swedish Fritt Broderi Purse

This class meets over two weeks, October 1 and 8, 12 pm – 3 pm each session.

Design and sew a crossbody purse using fritt broderi, or “free embroidery” techniques! This method is a creative, open style of embroidery with historic roots. Working alongside textile artist Natalie Norman, students will learn at least six varied hand stitches over wool appliqué on wool using current motifs to play with color and shape. After practicing basic embroidery stitches, students will create a personal design and use applique and embroidery to complete their pocket front. This technique takes you on a journey from past to present. Make your purse unique by adding embellishments like sequins, buttons, and ribbons! Further discussion about construction will be addressed throughout the two class sessions, although depending on experience and the design chosen, students may not complete their entire project in class. Students will leave with the skills and materials to finish their bag at home, and the result will be a 6”x 10” crossover purse, perfect for everyday use!

Prerequisites:

Skill level: Open to all skill levels. Suitable for both beginners and more experienced embroiderers who want to try a new technique.

Ages: Suitable for ages 18+.

Tools & Materials:

A $15 materials fee is payable to the instructor in class, which covers the pattern, wool and non-wool fabric, Perle cotton threads, and assorted embellishments. Students should bring fabric shears, embroidery scissors, any favored embellishments, and magnification (e.g. readers) if needed.