One of the most exciting aspects of embroidery, whether on wool or canvas, is the possibility of filling shapes by moving gradually and organically from one color to another. At first glance, creating a smooth color gradient might look difficult or even a little intimidating, but once you know a few simple tricks, it’s actually a breeze! And that’s where I come in.

During this workshop, I’ll show you how to create smooth, beautiful color gradients and how to plan your embroidery so that you always know where you’re going.

What we’ll work on:
• Creating color gradients: Learn how to move smoothly from one color to another and how to combine two or more shades within the same shape. You’ll see that achieving a natural-looking transition is much easier than it seems.
• Preparing your template: We’ll look at how to draw and plan a template, including all the details you need to guide you through the embroidery process.
• Essential embroidery stitches: We’ll practise the main stitches used for this type of embroidery:

• Satin stitch
• Split stitch
• Long and short stitch
• Straight stitch

We’ll also explore how these stitches can be combined to create different effects, textures and transitions.
• Putting color into practice: Before moving on to the final project, we’ll experiment by filling simple shapes with two or more colors, giving you the chance to understand how blending works in practice.
• The Maia Poncho: Finally, we’ll take a closer look at my Maia Poncho pattern, which will be included in your class handouts. You’ll be able to knit and embroider your own Maia Poncho using all the techniques you’ve learned during the workshop.

This is a creative, hands-on class designed to take the mystery out of color blending and give you the confidence to play with color and bring your embroidery to life. It may look complicated, but trust me: once you know how, it’s a breeze! Come and join me!

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, fingering 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.