Interested in the History of 17th Century Needlework?

Interested in the History of 17th Century Needlework?

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59-page article on 17th century boarding school embroidery

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Home Products Pincushions of Nuremberg - Series 3: Merian’s Garden
Pincushions of Nuremberg - Series 3: Merian’s Garden

Pincushions of Nuremberg - Series 3: Merian’s Garden

Coming Soon

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Course Type, Length, and Start Date 

Project and Technique

5-months   June 1st, 2026

Subscription Payments 

Payment in full by button above.  If prefer paying by installment - click the gold link to be taken to PayPal for a subscription:

Kit Contents

37 ct. Linen, 20 colors of Au Ver a Soie - Soie Ovale in full tubes, five packages of silk chenille, silk backing fabrics.

Course Overview

For years, I’ve been captivated by the intricate Florentine patterns and delicate stitched squares found on southern German samplers—particularly those taught in Nuremberg between 1650 and 1760. These small-scale designs, brought to life with lustrous filament silk, shimmer with a beauty that’s truly timeless. Over time, I’ve collected patterns and historical techniques with the goal of sharing them through a series of classes that go beyond surface design to explore the materials and methods that give them their unique radiance.

In this class, we’ll focus on mastering the use of filament silk—learning how to handle and stroke Soie Ovale for optimal tension control while working with a historically inspired palette to shade and highlight these exquisite patterns. Each month, one of the five pincushions in this first of four series will be worked.  

Each of the four series we’ll stitch is dedicated to a remarkable woman from Nuremberg's history—figures who shaped the landscape of female education, the arts, and the tradition of embroidery pattern books. Through needle and thread, we’ll not only explore historic technique but honor the women who helped preserve and pass down this enduring art form.  The lessons will include original historic research about each of the four women.

This third series of five pincushions concentrates on Maria Sibylla Merian, the world's first entomologist and artist.  Her drawings and paintings of the natural world obscure her early history as an embroidery pattern designer and teacher. 

Course Flexibility

At Thistle Threads, we understand that life’s commitments can make it difficult to focus on a course every month. That’s why my courses are designed to be self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own rhythm. You can take breaks when needed, and the course material will remain available to you, often serving as a valuable reference for future projects once completed.

Course Access and Delivery

Upon the start date of the course, you’ll receive a username and password to access my teaching site on the Thinkific platform. Logging in will immediately give you access to the first lesson, ready for download. Course materials will primarily be provided in PDF format, but may also include additional resources like videos and stitch animations.

Once the course is completed, you’ll receive access to non-public YouTube playlists, where videos will be available for future reference and continued learning.

Access Timeframe

Course materials must be downloaded within three months of the course's conclusion. During the course, all lessons—including new ones and previously released content—will be accessible. So, if you’re unable to log in during a month, you can always catch up by reviewing any missed lessons at your own pace.

Prerequisites

While there isn't any particular requirements, experience with cross stitch is helpful. The most important need is a willingness to learn.

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