Sculptural Goldwork Octopus with Michelle Agnew

Location: 86 Margaret Street, London W1W 8TE

Duration: 5 Daily Sessions

Dive into 3D Sculptural Goldwork embroidery with a week-long special course with Michelle Agnew focused on creating your own metalwork octopus. This class blends traditional Goldwork and Stumpwork techniques, offering a unique exploration of texture, movement and depth. You’ll learn to harness the sculptural qualities of Stumpwork (with a few contemporary twists) to bring to life the dynamic motion of an octopus, using innovative techniques that make the tentacles of your octopus twist dramatically off the fabric. As we explore the enchanting details of this sea creature, you’ll gain expertise in crafting intricate textures with Goldwork threads and three - dimensional effects. By the end of the course, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind embroidered octopus that captures the essence of one of the oceans most enigmatic inhabitants. (Note: Some stitching outside of class may be required. (Each day’s work must be completed in order to move onto the next steps) 

During this 5 day class you will learn a wide range of Goldwork techniques, starting with the soft string and felt padding. Covering this with gorgeous metal threads creating Cutwork and chipping. You will also learn how to couch and tie back as well as attaching Pearl Purl and spangles. All of these traditional Goldwork techniques with a modern twist. 

All of the materials you need for this class will be provided for you as part of your course experience. You are more than welcome to bring your own embroidery equipment if you would rather use your own materials but everything will be provided for you.

Location

You can find us at 86 Margaret Street, London W1W 8TE

To see the nearest tube stops and bus routes and to see a selection of our favourite places to eat, drink and stay have a look at our Useful Information page here.

Accessibility

Our in person classes are taught in our school which is located upstairs in our studio. Unfortunately the building does not have lift access, so use of the stairs would be necessary.

Tutor Profiles

Michelle Agnew is a Canadian artist based in Toronto, specialising in sculptural Goldwork embroidery. Her journey into this unique art form took her to England in 2022, where she studied the Royal School of Needlework’s certificate and diploma programs. Since then, she has worked full-time as an embroidery artist. 

Agnew blends traditional goldwork with contemporary techniques, reimagining embroidery as a three-dimensional art form. Her work draws inspiration from nature, architecture, and the historical tradition of embroidery. By combining these elements, she created pieces that are both visually striking and conceptually engaging. 

Her work has attracted attention from notable clients such as Max & Co, Saks Fifth Avenue and Merrell. Currently, Agnew is collaborating on several new projects with design firms worldwide, pushing the boundaries of her craft and exploring fresh artistic directions. Her work pays tribute to the rich history of embroidery while constantly finding ways to expand its possibilities. 

In 2023, she created a goldwork octopus commission for an American couple living in Honduras, who’s favourite activity was diving to see octopi together. The piece received quite a bit of attention and was longlisted for Create Magazine’s 2024 Annual Women’s Edition. Michelle is delighted to be returning to London and partnering with Hand & Lock to share the techniques she used on this piece. 

Testimonials

If you would like to hear from some of our past students you can read our testimonials here.

For more information about our courses check out our FAQ page  here.