Exploring Free-Motion Reverse Appliqué
Sunday 18th April 2027- Cober Hill, Scarborough
Available spaces
** Early Bird Discount ** Get 10% off if you book and pay in full before 30th September 2026. Join us for a one-day workshop at Cober Hill Scarborough, led by Holly Capstick, a skilled textile artist passionate about the art of machine embroidery and reverse appliqué. This beginner-friendly session welcomes adults aged 16+ (or 13+ if accompanied by a paying adult), guiding you to create a stunning portrait-themed fabric artwork using free-motion machine embroidery and reverse appliqué techniques. You’ll learn to layer fabrics, cut away sections to reveal vibrant designs, and stitch expressive details, choosing from Holly’s provided portrait templates or why not bring your own design idea. No prior sewing experience is needed, as full teaching and support are provided. Set in the vibrant, welcoming hub of Cober Hill, this workshop offers a supportive and creative atmosphere, ensuring you leave with a unique textile piece and the skills to explore this exciting craft further. Machine embroidery and reverse appliqué have roots in ancient textile traditions, with embroidery dating back to 3000 BC in Egypt and China, where it adorned garments and ceremonial objects. Reverse appliqué, also known as cutwork, emerged in cultures like India and Panama layering fabrics and cutting away sections to create bold, contrasting patterns. Under Holly's guidance, you’ll master the essentials of free-motion machine embroidery and reverse appliqué, creating a unique portrait-themed fabric artwork. You’ll begin by learning to set up a sewing machine in free-motion mode (dropping the feed dogs) and using a darning/free-motion foot to stitch fluid, expressive lines. Holly will demonstrate reverse appliqué techniques, guiding you to layer fabrics and cut away sections to reveal colourful designs, creating depth and contrast. Using provided portrait templates or your own designs, you’ll build your artwork, experimenting with stitching patterns and fabric textures. Sunday 18th April 2027 10am-4pm with Holly Capstick This workshop takes place at: Cober Hill Cloughton Scarborough North Yorkshire YO13 0AR The workshop runs from 10am to 4pm. Please arrive at Cober Hill between 9.30am and 9.45am for refreshments before heading to the studio for a prompt 10am start. Turn this workshop into a two-night stay at Cober Hill’s historic mansion house.
Cancellation Policy
Booking & Cancellation Policy Payment Options You can pay in full at the time of booking via card, Google Pay, Apple Pay or PayPal, or choose to pay a 25% deposit and pay the remaining balance 45 days before the event. Cash payment can be made in person at the school, shop or venue. Deposits A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place on Workshops, Courses and Residentials. This deposit is non-refundable in all circumstances. Balance Due If you pay by deposit, the remaining 75% balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the start date. We will send you a reminder email with a payment link. Cancellation Policy Courses & Workshops More than 8 weeks before start: Full refund minus £20 admin fee. 4–8 weeks before: 70% refund. 2–4 weeks before: 50% refund. Less than 2 weeks before or after start: No refund.