What is the Certificated Course?
This is an intensive course designed to help students develop hand embroidery skills to a high standard. The emphasis is on technique and a design element is also provided. In order to gain the RSN Certificate in Embroidery, the four basic techniques of Jacobean, Silk Shading, Canvaswork and Goldwork need to be successfully completed.
Once the basics have been mastered, students can work as many other techniques as is practical with their chosen attendance option (see below). These can include any of the following:-
- Advanced Techniques in Goldwork
- Creative Metal thread
- Silk Shading
- Tapestry Shading
- Beadwork
- Blackwork
- Box Making
- Canvas Shading
- Machine Embroidery
- Quilting – English and Trapunto
- Silk Painting
- Smocking
- Stumpwork
- Tassels
- Whitework.
Who is the Certificated Course for?
The course is for anybody who would like the opportunity to study embroidery techniques in an intensive way. We welcome both male and female students of all ages and nationalities. Overseas students are particularly welcome and a basic knowledge of English is required. Many of our overseas students use the opportunity to study additional language, art appreciation, culinary and floristry courses. For those who have relocated to the UK with partners here on business or working in embassies, studying the RSN Certificated Course is an ideal opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills.
What level of experience do I need?
A little previous embroidery experience is required, and an enthusiasm for the subject and a commitment to the course is important. We will teach, encourage and support you as your skills develop under the tutor's guidance.
Teaching methods
Classes are small with no more than eight students per day. Tutors are on hand to guide each student through the creative process from the initial design idea, choice of background fabric, colour palate, and choice of threads and stitches to working the piece and solving technical problems. A vast amount of teaching experience has been accumulated over many years and each tutor has a great deal of knowledge and technical skill to pass on to the willing student. You will be learning from some of the most highly skilled hand embroiderers in the world.
Students often comment on the high standard of teaching and the relaxed, friendly approach of all the staff. It is amazing to see how many friendships develop over a shared enthusiasm for stitching.
Who are the tutors?
The Certificated Course is taught by working hands-on embroiderers; all have been trained on the Royal School of Needlework's Diploma Course (formerly Apprenticeship) and combine their teaching with work in the RSN's Studio or as freelance embroiderers, textile artists and teachers.
Assessments and the RSN Certificate
All Certificate Students' work is continuously assessed and verified at the end of each term by external assessors who also verify the Diploma Students' work, ensuring that the high teaching standards are maintained. The assessment process is optional, so your work need not be assessed. However, a certificate cannot be awarded for work that is not formally assessed.
Additional study and homework
With all RSN courses there is a distinct emphasis on the technical skills required to successfully stitch each technique. Students must demonstrate commitment to the course and be willing to do the homework required to cover all the techniques in the time available. Little theory or historical background information is provided and individual students are encouraged to carry out their own research using the RSN library. There will be access to the RSN Collections of original designs and antique needlework textile pieces.
Where does the Certificated Course lead to?
On successfully completing each technique you will be equipped to tackle your next project with newly acquired skills and confidence. Many students use their Certificated Course experience to assist with their careers in teaching, for pleasure and for business opportunities in interior design and the fashion industry.
Where can I study the RSN Certificated Course?
The course takes place in two venues; at the RSN in Hampton Court Palace and in the North East in County Durham with former RSN Apprentice and staff member, Tracy Franklin.
New Classes in the USA
In September 2008 we will offer two modules of the Intensive Certificated Course in San Francisco, California. This will be taught by Lucy Barter, the only graduate apprentice resident in the USA, and Owen Davies, one of the senior tutors at the RSN.
27 September to 09 October 2008
San Francisco (Hyatt Regency Hotel SF Airport)
Certificated Course Jacobean or Canvas Stitches
Spring 2009 - Dates to be confirmed
San Francisco (Hyatt Regency Hotel SF Airport)
Certificated Course Silk Shading and Goldwork
Day Classes in a variety of techniques
Accommodation
For those travelling to Hampton Court Palace from a distance and requiring accommodation there are local hotels, bed and breakfast accommodation and private houses that can be used as a base whilst attending the RSN. It is the student's responsibility to secure their own accommodation and this service is not provided by the RSN.
Class Times
Classes at Hampton Court Palace run from 10.00am to 4.00pm with a morning coffee break (tea and coffee provided) and an hour's break at lunchtime. Bring your own packed lunch or visit the Privy Kitchen Coffee Shop or Tiltyard Café within the Palace.
