Class Materials
- 16-count Aida cloth (approximately 6 x 9 inches)
- 28-count evenweave fabric (approximately 9 x 12 inches)
- Embroidery hoop (a 6-inch hoop will accommodate both fabric sizes)
- Embroidery needle (Size 3-9 should fit DMC embroidery thread)
- DMC embroidery floss in the following colors:
- Brown 300
- Black 310
- Dark Blue 336
- Yellow 725
- Orange 720
- Green 703
- Dark Red 777
- Light Blue 747
Please note: Thread colors are suggestions from the instructor; students are welcome to make substitutions if desired.
Sivas (also historically known as Sebastia), part of historic Western Armenia, is the home of vibrant Svaz embroidery. Famed for its brilliant colors and bold geometric motifs, this distinctive style traditionally employs seven bright hues outlined in a darker thread, creating striking contrast and definition. Sometimes referred to as a “reverse stitch,” Svaz is a counted embroidery technique instantly recognizable for its crisp symmetry and graphic impact, and it has long adorned textiles in Armenian homes.
This class will introduce the foundational stitches of Svaz embroidery and explore the cultural and historical context from which it emerged. As students learn the characteristic counted technique and distinctive outlining method, a vivid folkloric pattern will take shape. Participants will stitch a traditional design that can be finished as a decorative hanging, incorporated into a household textile, or added to a garment. Throughout the session, our teacher Lizzy Vartanian will share insights into the regional heritage of Svaz and its enduring place in Armenian textile tradition.
Date
Thursday, April 16th, 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 sessions will be recorded. A link to the recording will be emailed to all those who register following the live session. This link is live for three months.
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.
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.