In this class, we will learn about the stitches used in embroidery from Ourfa, a region of historic Western Armenia. Ourfa embroidery is famed for its floral motifs and its pale and delicate color palette. Originally, it would have been done on coarse fabric, though finer fabrics like silks are now used. Ourfa embroidery uses a filling stitch, which is then outlined with a darker or golden thread to give the motif prominence. during our time together, we will learn about the history of Ourfa embroidery as well as the primary stitches, including filling stitches and outlines.
Date
Thursday, October 29th, 2026
Time
12:00-2:30 pm ET
Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants the day before class
Cost
$75
Recording
All World Embroidery Series sessions will be recorded. A link to each recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. Each link is live for three months after the live session.
Class Materials
- Light coloured fabric like a white cotton but with no stretch and not too thick
- Embroidery hoop
- Pencil or erasable fabric pen
- Needle
- Silk or DMC threads (brown, green, dark pink, light pink and gold)
About the World Embroidery Series
TATTER’s World Embroidery Series is a celebration of global embroidery craft. Sewists will encounter an astonishing array of culturally specific techniques, and will have the opportunity to learn from accomplished practicing teachers who are equally purposed in preserving heritage techniques.
Bundle Discount
When four World Embroidery classes are added to your cart, a 25% off code will be automatically applied. All classes must be in a single order to qualify for the discount.
Scholarships
We have one scholarship seat available for this workshop. To be considered for a scholarship, please fill out this scholarship application form.
Our Teacher
Lizzy Vartanian (b. 1993, London) is an embroidery artist based in Yerevan, Armenia. She is the founder of the brand “Armenian Embroidery” and is passionate about passing the history and skills of historical Armenian embroidery to the next generation. Much of her work is inspired by roots in Armenia, Lebanon and Syria, transforming twentieth-century family photographs into embroidered works of art. She has been fortunate to spend time with female practitioners in Armenia and Jordan, learning about traditional stitches from Armenia and the Levant. Her work has been exhibited in the UK, Armenia and Jordan, including at the Royal Academy of Art in London. She has also given workshops internationally, including at London’s Victoria & Albert Museum.