Introduction to Embroidery - Beginner Embroidery Workshops with Hoop & Fred

My introduction to embroidery workshops are designed for people who are completely new to stitching, or who want to return to embroidery in a relaxed, supportive way. These sessions focus on slowing down, learning a few simple skills, and enjoying the process of making something by hand.

Workshops are guided, beginner-friendly, and flexible in format, making them well suited to private groups, corporate teams, community organisations, and shared workspaces across Manchester and the North West. Whether you’re planning a one-off session or part of a wider programme, this workshop can be adapted to suit your group, space, and time.

Who This Workshop Is For

This workshop works particularly well for:

  • Complete beginners with no prior embroidery experience
  • Mixed-ability groups with different confidence levels
  • Corporate teams and office-based wellbeing sessions
  • Community groups, residential buildings, and arts organisations
  • Private bookings for friends or small groups

No creative background is needed. Everything is taught step by step, with plenty of reassurance along the way.

What the Session Involves

Each session introduces embroidery in a calm, approachable way. I focus on a small number of key stitches that can be used to create something simple but effective, without overwhelming people with too much information.

Participants are guided through the process at a gentle pace, with time to ask questions, experiment, and enjoy the act of stitching. All materials are provided, and everyone receives a small embroidery kit to take away, along with access to online instructions so they can continue in their own time if they wish.

The emphasis is always on building confidence and enjoyment, rather than perfection.

Format & Timing Options

Introduction to embroidery workshops are flexible and can be shaped around your setting and schedule.

Typical options include:

  • Seated workshops lasting between 45 and 90 minutes
  • Lunchtime sessions designed to fit around a working day
  • Longer sessions for groups who want more time to settle into the process

I always factor in the realities of busy schedules, including people arriving late or needing to leave early, and design sessions so they still feel relaxed and complete.

Seasonal & Themed Designs

Designs for this workshop change throughout the year and can be tailored to suit specific moments, themes, or events.

Past and popular themes include:

  • Valentine’s Day
  • International Women’s Day
  • Seasonal florals
  • Words of affirmation or short phrases
  • Autumn & Halloween
  • Festive and winter designs

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 creative skill they can build on
  • Increased confidence in trying something creative
  • Something they’ve made with their own hands
  • A sense of calm and a genuine break from the day
  • A beginners embroidery kit and a link to an online stitch & pattern guide

Some pieces may be finished during the session, while others are designed to be continued at home using the kit provided.

Past Workshops & Experience

I’ve delivered introduction to embroidery workshops in a wide range of settings, including offices, residential buildings, community spaces, and cultural venues across Manchester. These sessions form the foundation of much of my workshop practice and are often the starting point for longer-term programmes or repeat bookings.

You can see examples of how these workshops work in practice through The Workshop Diaries, where I share reflections and case studies from recent sessions.

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