Embroidery Course: Ceremonial Goldwork
Location:
National Army Museum
Date:
16 - 17 May 2026
Price:
£200.00
Elevate your skills during London Craft Week on this two-day course inspired by the Museum’s collection and led by experts from Hand & Lock, London’s premier embroidery house.
About the event
For centuries, the uniforms, standards and ceremonial items used by soldiers in the British Army have been finely embroidered with goldwork.
On this special weekend course, take inspiration from the beautiful examples of ceremonial goldwork in our collection and learn how to elevate your own embroidery skills under the supervision of tutors from Hand & Lock.
Attendees will learn the following skills: soft string padding (creating 3D relief from the fabric using strings), and adding cutwork and edging in pearl purl embroidery.
Programme
Day 1: Saturday 16 May
10.00am – 4.30pm
In the morning, a curator will show you some fine examples of goldwork from the National Army Museum’s collection, explaining their historic significance. A representative from Hand & Lock will then discuss the techniques used in the embroidery.
After lunch, you’ll take part in an embroidery class and have a go at a design inspired by the items you’ve seen.
Day 2: Sunday 17 May
10.00am – 4.30pm
On Day 2, you’ll continue to work on your design in our embroidery class.
About Hand & Lock
Hand & Lock is London’s premier embroidery house, providing embellishment services to the Royal Family, top European design houses, the military, Savile Row and members of the public. Founded in 1767, they have over 250 years’ experience embellishing, embroidering and monogramming.
FAQs
Is the National Army Museum accessible?Yes, the National Army Museum is fully accessible. If you need further access information or help please do get in touch at info@nam.ac.uk or call 020 7730 0717,
Bikes (including folding bikes) and scooters are not permitted. There are bike racks located along Royal Hospital Road. These can be used to secure any bikes and scooters.
Please do not secure any bikes or scooters to the railings outside the Royal Hospital Chelsea or Burton Court. Any items secure to these railings will be removed.
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