Royal School of Needlework Embroidery Studio

The Royal School of Needlework (RSN) is thrilled to be part of the Hampton Court Palace Artisan Fayre 2023.  The RSN is the international centre of excellence for the art of hand embroidery offering a range of courses for beginners through to advanced, across a variety of techniques.

Founded in 1872, with unrivalled expertise in the techniques of hand embroidery, the RSN has taken this captivating, traditional art and made it relevant today.  Students can choose to study a variety of classes online and onsite, including Day & Evening Classes and the Certificate & Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery.  The RSN also teaches BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery and the Future Tutors Programme which trains Tutors for the next generation.  

The RSN teaches at the magnificent Hampton Court Palace in south west London; in venues across the UK in Bristol, Rugby, Durham and Glasgow; internationally in North America and Japan, and Online, opening its doors to stitch lovers around the globe.  In addition, inspiring Online Talks are hosted each month.

The RSN Embroidery Studio is based at Hampton Court Palace creating beautiful bespoke commissions for the future as well as restoring historical textiles and bringing heirlooms back to life. Customers come from all over the world, including fashion designers, Oscar nominees, places of worship, private individuals and the Royal Family.  The RSN’s close links with royalty started when it was founded in 1872, and still continue today with Her Royal Highness, The Duchess of Cornwall, as Patron.

At the Artisan Fayre 2023, the RSN will teach a 90 minute workshop every day, which will take place in our learning studios, part of the original grace in favour Palace apartments, not usually accessible to visitors.

We will teach this striking black and gold design to celebrate our 150th Anniversary Year, inspired by an original hand drawn illustration by Selwyn Image (1849-1930) from our extensive archive.

You will learn a variety of surface stitches and beginners' Goldwork techniques.  This is an opportunity to learn stem, trellis and chain stitch along with couched gold metal thread and spangles. Goldwork is synonymous with both Royalty and Ecclesiastical vestments and is just one of the many techniques the RSN is famous for.

The 90 minute Workshop will take place from 11.30am-1pm every day.  There are only eight places per day so you need to book your place fast!  Please note that, to attend the RSN workshop, you must buy an entry ticket to the Artisan Fayre or show your Historic Royal Palaces membership card.

See you there!