We are on a mission to cast aside the misconception that embroidery is only done by women to encourage more men to take up this traditional skill and art.

Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of the Royal School of Needlework said:

“The art of hand embroidery is for men, women, young and old.  It can appeal to so many people for different reasons.  Some of our students learn embroidery as a therapeutic hobby, whilst others are very much looking to enhance their skills for their career, in particular, with the resurgence of embroidery in fashion.

“The current Opus Anglicanum exhibition at London’s V&A Museum showcases magnificent craftsmanship of medieval embroidery which was very sought after in its time and interestingly, stitched by both men and women.  As always, fashion trends come and go, and we are delighted that hand embroidery is back in demand.  We want to encourage more people to take up this art as their new hobby and to ensure that these traditional skills continue to pass on to new generations.”

Meet some of our male students who featured in a recent photoshoot and find out why they have chosen to learn hand embroidery at the Royal School of Needlework.

Brian Hunt, aged 76 from Rugby said: “I really enjoy studying with the RSN. I’ve met so many good friends and learnt so much in the five years I’ve now been doing it.”  Brian studies the Advanced Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery at RSN in Rugby.

Devvrut Patel, aged 19 from Kingston-upon-Thames, south west London, studies the BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery for Fashion, Interiors, Textile Art at the RSN in Hampton Court Palace: “The best part of studying hand embroidery at the Royal School of Needlework is the atmosphere we are in.  As soon as you walk in to the Palace you just get inspiration from everywhere.”

RSN Tutor Owen Davies was the first male student to graduate from the RSN’s Apprenticeship and commented: “There has definitely been an increase with more men picking up a needle. Even though when I mention my profession I still see a few raised eyebrows, I no longer feel I have to justify what I’m doing and why.”

If you know anyone who would like to learn the art of hand embroidery, we have many different Introduction Classes in February and March.  Click on the link for more details.