As a sequel to the first Korean embroidery class on longevity symbols and related stitches, this new class offers a deeper exploration of Korean embroidery through traditional colour schemes and the practice of two stitch techniques: 자릿수[jarit-su](mat stitch) and 느낌수[neukkim-su](impression stitch).
Both stitches are historically and authentically representative of Korean embroidery, with distinctive appearances and textures found in numerous historical embroidery artefacts. They are also highly versatile techniques for filling large areas and blending colours, not only in Korean embroidery but across many forms of embroidery.
The class includes a brief introduction to traditional Korean colour schemes and the stories behind these stitches, followed by step-by-step demonstrations of each technique. While silk fabrics and threads are traditionally used, participants are encouraged to bring any materials they wish to experiment with. The aim of the class is to deepen participants’ appreciation of embroidery as an art form and to explore how these stitch techniques can be adapted to suit your own projects.
Date
Thursday, November 12th, 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:
A brief introduction to stretching fabric on stretcher bars will be provided along with the embroidery designs.
Traditional Materials
- Fine 2-ply twisted silk thread in any colour (thread width: approx. 1㎜ or less)
- Short and fine embroidery needle (length: approx. 3㎝ / width: approx. 1㎜ or less)
- Silk satin in any colour, non-stretch, not too drapery (size: min. A4 or Letter)
- Embroidery snips
- Wooden stretcher bar frame (size: depending on your fabric size, fabric size is at least 2㎝ longer both in lengthwise and widthwise)
- For fabric stretching, fabric glue and flat head thumb tacks
- For design transferring, printed design, white carbon tracing paper (hand drawing with pen is also available)
- Thumbtack remover or stainless spoon as a substitute
Less Traditional Alternatives
- Any kind of thread such as cotton thread, wool thread, knitting yarn, etc.
- Needle that can work with your thread
- Any non-stretch fabric such as cotton, linen, etc.
- Any type of fabric stretcher such as hoop
- Tools for design transferring such as tracing paper, pen or erasable pen
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
Heehwa Jo is a Korean embroidery artist, tutor, and author currently based in London, UK. Jo has always been fascinated by Korean traditions and textile arts, which ultimately led her to the world of embroidery, particularly traditional Korean methods. Since 2017, she has been a professional embroiderer, teaching people in her studio and participating in various exhibitions and workshops.
Her interest in embroidery and art was shaped by many experiences: double majoring in Korean Language and Literature along with Textiles and Fashion Design at university, working in the fashion industry, and completing a three-year course in traditional Korean embroidery. Despite these influences, she firmly believes that ancient artifacts and their stories inspire and motivate her the most.
Jo’s embroidery is a fusion of Korean tradition and her own creative touch. It can come in the form of combining traditional techniques with modern designs or offering new interpretations using symbolic motifs and colors. As traditional Korean art is meant to be read rather than seen, she uses stitches, designs, and colors as the language of her work. When practicing embroidery, she loves to stress the importance of expressing yourself freely, as the free-spirited ancestors did. Such innovative moves are the driving force that keeps creating tradition and pushing boundaries for the next generation.
You can find more about Jo’s work on her website and on Instagram.