Description
Botanical Embroidery
Discover the Joy of Hand Embroidery
Saturday 15 November 2 -5pm and Friday 12 June 2026 10am – 1pm
Join textile artist Sawi Thorpe for a relaxed and inspiring 3-hour workshop exploring the timeless craft of hand embroidery.
Workshop Details
Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to refine your stitches, you’ll learn foundational techniques, tips for working with colour and texture, and how to create beautiful designs – inspired by nature – by hand. All materials are provided – come along to our November workshop (perfect inspiration for Christmas gifts) or cosy up at the Kiosk next June. Just bring your curiosity and love for making!
Choose your Design
Every participant receives a comprehensive embroidery kit which includes:
- Hand-printed linen fabric
- Wooden beech embroidery hoop, 6” x 1
- DMC embroidery thread
- Embroidery needle x 2 (brand DMC)
- Mini scissors x 1
- Full-colour Beginner’s Stitch Guide + color chart
- Eco-friendly and sustainable fabric and hoop.
Choose from the following designs for your workshop experience: Wildflowers | Pōhutukawa | Meadow garden
About Sawi
About Sawi Hi, I’m Sawi — a hand-embroidery artist passionate about stitching stories inspired by nature, with a soft spot for all things floral. I spend my days creating embroidered pieces that celebrate the beauty of flowers, whether it’s a tiny wildflower or a bold botanical bouquet. My stitching journey began with my grandma, who first introduced me to the needle and thread, and those early memories with her continue to shape my work today.
Life got busy and pulled me away from it for a while, but about six years ago, I found my way back — and it felt like reconnecting with a piece of myself. What I love most about hand-embroidery is how it keeps you grounded and present, while giving you the freedom to stitch your own unique pieces with no boundaries. Now, I’m here to share that love and help others start learning and enjoying their stitching journey. Hopefully, it will bring back the same warm memories of your mum’s or grandma’s stitching too!
Location
Join us at The Kiosk, Christchurch Botanic GardensTe Māra Huaota o Waipapa
(Just over the footbridge from the Armagh St carpark). Free parking is available for the duration.
Tel: 366 6937
Email: office@chsgardens.co.nz
Costs & Payment
$105 Members & Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
$135 Non-Members
Includes all materials and light refreshments
**Reserve your spot today. Limited places available.**
Become a Member of the CHS and receive up to 30% off all our courses and workshops
Please note, our events are aimed at adults. If you are under 18 or wish to bring along tamariki please contact us before booking so we can check. Nga mihi, CHS team
