Geometric Paper Embroidery: Drawing and Stitching Curves of Pursuit

Are you an artist, sewer or crafter who enjoys using symmetry and pattern in your work?

If so, welcome to this creative and relaxing class where you’ll learn the art of hand-stitching beautiful geometric ‘curves of pursuit’ onto watercolour paper or card.

These stunning curved designs emerge, as if by magic, from a series of straight lines, making them the perfect pattern to embroider on paper.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some prior paper-stitching experience, this course will guide you through each step, from selecting the right materials and preparing the paper for stitching, to mastering the simple geometric stitching process.

Hi, I’m Clarissa, a geometric artist and experienced teacher, based in the UK. In my own creative practice, I enjoy experimenting with different mixed media techniques to enhance the underlying geometry of my artworks. One of my all-time favourite techniques is paper stitching. This slow, meditative process adds a delicate, tactile finish to elevate even the most simple designs.

I’m excited to show you how to hand-stitch these elegant geometric patterns onto watercolour paper or card – they’ll be beautiful enough to frame! Alternatively, you can create a set of stunning greetings cards to gift to friends and family.

Templates are provided for four different hexagonal variations, and you’ll also learn the process for creating the patterns so that you can make templates of your own. A myriad of possibilities await!

In this class you'll learn:

• How to draw the simple, yet elegant, ‘curve of pursuit’ pattern
• Which threads and paper types are suitable for paper stitching
• How to use the provided templates to pre-punch your paper ready for stitching
• How to plan your stitching sequence
• And how to secure your stitches to finish your artwork.

You’ll be creating:

• An elegant, hand-stitched geometric artwork you’ll be proud to display or gift.

Is this class for me?

Absolutely! No prior experience is necessary. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a hobby artist or sewer, or an experienced practitioner looking to add a new technique to your skillset, the wonderful thing about geometric art is that it is accessible to everyone – you don’t need to be ‘good at art’ (whatever that even means!). 

Even if you’re completely new to paper embroidery, you’ll be able to follow these step-by-step techniques to create your own artwork. And what’s more, you’ll gain skills that you can apply to more ambitious projects in the future. The possibilities really are endless!

Materials needed:

• A ruler, a pencil and an eraser
• A small sheet of watercolour paper or card (postcard (A6) up to letter (A4) size)
• A soft surface, e.g. a piece of cardboard or a cork placemat to press on
• A sewing needle and your choice of thread
• Low tack tape (e.g. washi tape, masking tape, painters tape)
• A small pair of scissors
• An awl or paper piercer (or you can simply use your needle)
• A printed copy of the template provided (see below).

Downloadable resource pack

Find this in the Projects & Resources section.

Time to get started - I can’t wait to see what you create!