Join artist Cecilia Charlton for special Bargello Embroidery Workshop, as part of our Make It Harewood Weekends.

Bargello is a type of needlepoint embroidery consisting of upright flat stitches laid in a pattern to create motifs. The name originates from a series of chairs found in the Bargello palace in Florence, which have a “flame stitch” pattern, although it can be referred to by other names such as Florentine Work, Hungarian point or Irish Stitch. As with many heritage crafts, the origins of bargello embroidery are not well documented, and the technique has been utilized in many textile traditions across Europe. Traditional designs are very colourful, and use many hues of one colour to produce intricate shading effects. The patterns are naturally geometric, but can also resemble stylised flowers or fruits.

Engaging with hand-embroidery provides time and space to slow down, an effect enhanced by the tactility of working with yarn. While appearing complex, bargello embroidery is easily achieved once the basic principles are understood — leaving the embroiderer to relax into the soothing rhythms of the bargello stitch structure.

In this workshop, you will learn the three fundamental principles of bargello — colour, stitch length, and stitch groupings — that work together to create dynamic imagery. Each participant will be guided through a sample piece of embroidery, and then supported by Cecilia to create their own bargello design. You will leave the workshop with all the necessary materials to finish your bargello embroidery project at home.

@ceciliacharlton

Useful Information

No prior embroidery experience is necessary to participate in this workshop.

This workshop is taking place in the Overflow Café, which is located downstairs, on the left hand side in the Courtyard.

This workshop is suitable for ages 15+
All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

*Please note this workshop includes entry to Harewood for the day.

About Cecilia Charlton

Cecilia Charlton is a London-based American artist. She creates hand-made embroideries and weavings that engage with the histories of abstract painting to explore a range of themes including memory and the subconscious.

She has most recently exhibited her piece Memory Garden at part of the Spring Harewood exhibition Colours Uncovered. Memory Garden was originally commissioned in 2023 by The Garden Museum in London.