Kari Bender - The Magic of Blackwork-Deceptive Simplicity

Kari Bender - The Magic of Blackwork-Deceptive Simplicity

$180.00

Saturday, March 22, 2025

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Class Fee: $160/ WMQFA Members (with member code); $185/Non Members

Class Description:

With deceptive simplicity, skilled English embroiderers worked the finest Flemish linen, called “lawne” with black silk. Blackwork embroidery decorated royal household linens as well as items of clothing like neckerchiefs worn by Henry VIII; a pair of sleeves owned by his third wife, Jane Seymour; and panels for Queen Elizabeth's kirtles, the bodices and skirts worn under her gowns.

Blackwork, also known as Spanish Work, is a type of counted thread embroidery thought to have originated in Spain. It was brought to England by Catherine of Aragon, who married Prince Arthur, the eldest son of King Henry VII. In spite of this pedigree, new evidence and research have shown that North Africa, particularly Morocco, may have been the true birthplace of this style of embroidery.

Modern Blackwork is traditionally stitched in black thread on white even-weave fabric but is often worked in multiple or other single colors, where repeating patterns are stitched with varying densities. Given the fact the stitches themselves are relatively simple – the vast array of complex patterns that can be created is amazing.

Start your Blackwork journey here. In the morning Kari will explain basic techniques while allowing you to practice some stitches, on 14 count Aida, that can be used for Blackwork. You will also learn how to create shading by both varying the weight of the threads and the density of the stitching. In the afternoon you will put these into practice on a piece designed especially for this class.

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Class fee includes kit required for the class.

  • Kit includes: base fabric, a variety of threads, needle, handouts with stitches and instructions.

SUPPLY LIST:

  • Scissors for thread

  • lights and magnifier if needed

  • needle threader if needed.

About the Artist:

I’m Kari Bender and I have been sewing since I came out of the womb. In March 1993, I took over ownership of the Needle Workshop in Wausau, WI - needlework was my passion at the time. I opened the Quilting Workshop in 2002 and have since proven to the community that I’m not just a stitcher but also a quilter. Much like the older building the shops live in, I’ve had many careers. This includes working at other craft supply stores and working as a Family and Consumer Education teacher. My college degrees are in Textiles and Clothing from UW-Madison, and Teaching from UW-Stevens Point. I’m passionate about giving to others, so I volunteer at assisted living homes, organize fundraisers for the Wausau Area School Food Pantry, organize quilt drives, teach youth to sew, donate sewing supplies to those in need and much more.

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