Embroidery for Tote Bags & Clothing

These embroidery workshops focus on stitching directly onto clothing and tote bags, offering a practical, creative session where participants personalise something they can use and wear. The workshops are beginner-friendly and guided, with an emphasis on simple stitches that work well on items designed to be worn or used practically.

This format is popular with corporate teams, private groups, and organisations looking for a relaxed, creative activity that feels both useful and enjoyable. Sessions are designed to fit comfortably into busy days, while still giving people time to slow down, focus, and enjoy making something by hand.

Who This Workshop Is For

This workshop is well suited to:

  • Complete beginners and mixed-ability groups
  • Corporate teams and workplace wellbeing sessions
  • Private group bookings and celebrations
  • Community and arts organisations
  • People who like the idea of making something practical and personal
  • Events or projects with an upcycling or sustainability theme

No previous embroidery experience is needed. Guidance is clear, supportive, and adapted to the group on the day.

What the Session Involves

Participants are guided through a small number of carefully chosen stitches that work particularly well on tote bags or clothing. The focus is on building confidence and sharing practical creative skills that can be used again in the future.

I demonstrate each step clearly and circulate throughout the session to offer support where needed. All materials are provided, or people can bring their own items (with guidance on what is suitable) to customise. Participants are encouraged to take their time and work at a pace that feels comfortable.

As with all my embroidery workshops, the emphasis is on enjoyment and creative confidence rather than producing a perfect or finished piece.

Format & Timing Options

Embroidery on clothing and tote bags can be delivered in a range of formats, depending on your setting and schedule.

Common options include:

  • Seated workshops lasting 45 to 90 minutes
  • Shorter lunchtime sessions focused on one simple design - or a stripped back drop-in session can be offered
  • Sessions designed to allow & encourage people to continue stitching at home

I always plan sessions with flexibility in mind, particularly for workplace settings where people may arrive late or need to leave early.

Designs & Creative Direction

Designs for these workshops are intentionally simple and adaptable, making them suitable for beginners while still allowing room for personal choice.

Options can include:

  • Text or words of affirmation
  • Simple motifs or symbols
  • Seasonal or themed designs
  • Open-ended designs that encourage individual interpretation
  • Can be done on totebags, small washbags, a set clothing item or Christmas Stockings

Participants can follow a set design closely or add their own creative touches if they wish.

This flexibility makes the workshop especially popular with organisations planning themed events or seasonal programming, while still keeping the experience accessible for beginners.

What Participants Leave With

By the end of the session, participants leave with:

  • A new embroidery skill they can build on
  • Increased confidence working with fabric
  • A personalised item they’ve started to make
  • A sense of having taken a genuine creative break
  • A beginner embroidery kit to take home

Projects may be completed during the session or designed to be finished later, with guidance provided to support this.

Past Workshops & Experience

I’ve delivered tote bag and clothing embroidery workshops across Manchester in offices, shared buildings, community spaces, and cultural venues. This format works particularly well for groups looking for something practical, relaxed, and easy to engage with.

Examples of this style of workshop can be found in The Workshop Diaries, where I share reflections on sessions delivered in workplace and event settings.

Location & Availability

I’m based in Manchester and deliver workshops across Greater Manchester, the North West, and beyond. Sessions can take place at your venue, or I can help you think through what kind of space would work best.

Advance booking is recommended, particularly during busy periods such as Valentine’s Day, International Women’s Day, Mental Health Awareness Week, and Christmas.

Pricing Guide

I price workshops in a clear, straightforward way so it’s easy to understand what’s included.

  • Workshops start from £160, which covers planning, preparation, and delivery of the session
  • Materials are priced per participant, typically around £5 per person, depending on the workshop and materials used

Final costs may vary slightly depending on group size, format, location, and any bespoke design work, but I’ll always confirm pricing clearly in advance.

If you’re working to a particular budget, I’m very happy to talk this through and suggest options that fit.

Booking & Next Steps

If you're ready to book your Hoop & Fred workshop drop me an email at hoopandfred@gmail.com or use the contact form below. To get the ball rolling and help me plan the perfect session for you, let me know:

  • How many people you're looking to book for
  • Your Location (or if you need help finding a venue)
  • If you have a set design in mind, or a theme you are working with
  • When you are hoping to host the session
Or exlpore more workshop options

Get in touch to book