Kiki Gaffney

Workshop Host

A little about me – I’m Kirsty Gaffney, but everyone calls me Kiki. I’m a Royal School of Needlework alumnus with 8 years of experience in the fashion industry, having worked for both big and small brands and participated in London and Paris fashion weeks. I am deaf by birth and take pride in breaking barriers in the fashion world.

Embroidery With Kiki Gaffney

Workshop Overview

Join us for an exciting embroidery workshop where you will have the chance to transform your old, boring clothes into unique, stylish pieces with beautiful embroidered designs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced embroiderer, this workshop is the perfect opportunity to learn new techniques and express your creativity.

What to Bring

Clothing Item: Bring a piece of clothing you would like to reinvent. This could be a t-shirt, jeans, a jacket, a hat, or any other fabric item.
Embroidery Hoop: If you have one, please bring an embroidery hoop that fits your clothing item. We will have some available if you don’t own one.
Embroidery Floss: Any colors you would like to use. We will provide a variety, but bringing your own ensures you have your preferred colors.
You can bring your own scissors or needles, or thimble if you feel more comfortable.

What We Provide

A variety of embroidery floss in different colors
A selection of needles and hoops
Pattern templates and design ideas
Instructional handouts and step-by-step guidance
Expert assistance and personalized tips

Workshop Agenda

Welcome and Introduction

- Meet the instructor and fellow participants.
- Overview of the day’s activities and goals.

Basic Techniques Demonstration

- Learn essential embroidery stitches: backstitch, satin stitch, French knot, and more.
- Choose patterns provided (if you have your own design or idea, feel welcome to bring it).
- Tips on transferring patterns to fabric.

Embroidery Time (2 hours)

- Start embroidering your design with guidance and support from the instructor.
- Feel free to ask questions and seek advice as you work.

Tips for Success

Choose a Simple Design: If you’re a beginner, start with a small, simple design to build your confidence.
Practice First: Try out stitches on a scrap piece of fabric before working on your clothing item.
Take Your Time: Embroidery is a slow and steady process. Enjoy the journey and don’t rush.
Take it home and carry on if you aren’t able to finish the piece.

We look forward to seeing you at the workshop! Let’s bring life to our clothes and wear our newly reinvented pieces with pride. Happy stitching!