We have an exciting programme of Day Classes for the spring and summer time.  Meet a couple of our new wonderful Tutors who have completed the Future Tutors programme – Helen Jones and Auburn Claire Lucas.

Helen Jones

While practising as a solicitor, embroidery was Helen’s safe haven.   Having completed the RSN’s Certificate & Diploma course followed by the Future Tutors programme, stitching has now become her job.

Helen loves to teach; encouraging students who may lack confidence in their skills to play, practise and grow their abilities.  She enjoys investigating the RSN Archive, developing her understanding of a period or type of embroidery then turning it in to a class which others can enjoy.  Last year it was 17th century Stumpwork, next year it might be Ottoman embroidery – watch this space!

From March Helen is teaching in Glasgow, Exeter, Rugby and Hampton Court Palace so take a look at her series of Beginners and Mixed Ability classes for her inspirational designs, as well as teaching on the C&D Intensive this summer.

Auburn Claire Lucas

Auburn had already completed a Degree in ‘Historical Costume for Film and Theatre’ and an Apprenticeship with a Savile Row tailor before becoming an RSN Tutor.  She has taught at the Victoria & Albert Museum London, The British Library and The Knitting & Stitching Shows in London and Dublin.

Auburn’s interest lies in the study and reproduction of historical embroideries from all periods of history, but especially the 18thcentury.  She says: “The embroideries from this period are wonderful.  They are so colourful with multiple techniques being worked together beautifully and there’s so much to learn today from studying these historical pieces.  I’ve always been pleasantly surprised that many of the f undamental practices that I use today, such as ‘pricking and pouncing’, are the same as they were 250 years ago.”

Auburn will be teaching in Bristol, Hampton Court Palace and Exeter from February, with only a few places left on her beautiful ‘Introduction to Embroidery: Japanese Cherry Blossom’ at Bristol and Hampton Court Palace.