Embroidery can turn any knitted fabric into a canvas. In this class, we’ll explore how to build decorative patterns that can be worked on sweaters and accessories, transforming even the simplest knit into something truly unique.

Using floral borders, geometric bands and playful details, you’ll discover how embroidery can frame a garment, highlight its construction or become the main feature of your design.

What we’ll work on:
• Building decorative patterns: Learn how to combine simple embroidered elements to create richer and more elaborate designs, from small details to bold decorative motifs.
• Borders, bands and frames: We’ll explore different ways to create floral borders, geometric bands, stripes and ornamental frames for:

• Hems
• Cuffs
• Necklines
• Sweater panels and larger areas

• Playing with color and texture: We’ll look at how to balance bold colors and different textures, and how even simple stitches can be combined to create surprisingly rich results.
• Placement and composition: Where you place your embroidery can completely change the look of a garment. We’ll explore how to use repeating elements, mirrored designs and decorative borders to enhance the structure and shape of your knitwear.
• Creating your own combinations: Rather than simply following a motif, you’ll learn how to mix, repeat and adapt decorative elements to create your own compositions and make each piece one-of-a-kind.
• A project to continue at home: You’ll receive the pattern for a simple knitted cowl together with an embroidery design created especially for it. This will give you a complete project to work on at home, where you can practise and combine everything you’ve learned during the workshop.

By the end of the class, you’ll have a toolbox of decorative ideas and techniques, and the confidence to create your own frames, stripes, borders and ornamental motifs to make your knitwear truly shine.

Want to see more of my embroidery and get an idea of what you can create with these techniques? Find me on Instagram: @rosso.cardinale

One wool swatch or knitted sample, approx.20x20 cm (8x8 inches) inches, knitted in DK-weight yarn, stockinette stitch or lightly felted wool.

ALTERNATIVE TO THE SWATCH: If you don’t have time to knit a swatch, or simply don’t feel like it, you’re welcome to bring an old stockinette garment you no longer wear. It can be hand-knitted or store-bought, as long as it has a smooth surface and fits into an embroidery hoop. Just make sure the fabric isn’t too thick, so stitching remains comfortable and visible. You can also bring a piece of white woven fabric, such as linen or cotton. Choose something non-stretchy, with a firm and even weave, which is ideal for practicing the technique if you're not working directly on knitwear.

• Worsted or DK-weight yarn scraps in light or medium colors (easy to see stitches)
• A knitted swatch, approx. 20x20 cm (8x8 inches), in smooth yarn, stockinette preferred
• Embroidery needle with a sharp tip
• Embroidery hoop - the swatch must be larger than the hoop. I recommend a 6/7-inch hoop (do not use a smaller size)
• Small embroidery scissors
• Black marker pen to trace the embroidery
• Water-soluble tracing paper (widely available online. Also the one that sticks to the fabric works well.)
• Printed pattern guide
• A notebook and pen or pencil for taking notes

Reminder: Please print any handout(s) prior to class and bring it with you.