Botanical Embroidery

Time to get Stitching!

Join textile artist Sawi Thorpe for a relaxed and inspiring 3-hour workshop exploring the timeless craft of hand embroidery.

• 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!

Costs & Payment

$105 Members & Friends of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens
$135 Non-Members
Includes all materials and light refreshments

You will note we offer two ticket types: General Admission and CHS Member. A CHS Membership can save you up to 30% off workshops and courses AND provides great discounts at local retailers as well as FREE attendance at our Monthly Meeting, Garden Life.

To become a Member sign up on our website. Membership starts from as little as $30 per year.