Ornament Making Using Reclaimed Needlework with Louise Saxton

Join artist Louise Saxton in this hands-on workshop, where she will share her passion for reimagining vintage and antique needlework, made in and for the home in past eras.

In this workshop you will transform discarded, utilitarian linens from the past, into a “cut & pinned” Ornament, which can be hung directly on the wall, stitched down at home, or later framed. We will draw inspiration from various historical categories of ornamentation such as; architecture, the body, clothing, home and nature.

What is provided:
A workshop kit to use in class and take home, which includes: a pair of sharp embroidery scissors, lace-pins, embroidery hoop, and nylon tulle or fabric.

What you'll need to bring:
Embroidered and/or lace linens (doilies, tea cloths, tray cloths, tablecloths etc) that are no longer in use or, have been collected from local opportunity shops or flea markets. Louise will also supply some of her own ‘stash’ to dip in to, but participants are required to bring items that they are prepared to cut up and reimagine. This adds a deeper understanding of Louise’s art practice and deeper personal meaning to your memento monogram.

Louise Saxton is a Melbourne-based artist. Her practice has centred on reconstructing discarded materials from the home. Over the past twenty-one years she has engaged primarily with the reconstruction of domestic needlework, which she regards as a "silent collaboration with the anonymous original makers”.

Louise's work has been included in local and international exhibitions, and her work is held in public collections in Australia and private collections in Australia, Malaysia, India and the USA. She has held artist residencies in Malaysia, France, Mexico, Spain and Australia. In October 2024, she released a monograph of her reclaimed textile works, titled LOUISE SAXTON cut & pinned.

Your ticket includes:
- Expert instruction from artist Louise Saxton
- An intimate learning experience (no more than 10 participants)
- A workshop kit and your creation to take home
- Tea or Market Lane coffee throughout the day
- A light lunch
- A glass of wine
- Time to explore a wide range of exclusive gifts, books, and homewares at TJC Emporium