Shelley Cox

My teaching style is very practical and hands-on. I believe in demonstrating as often as required – to every student if necessary! Designs are either naturalistic or geometric, whatever is most suitable for the technique I am working within. But in all cases I like to encourage students to add their own personal touches and individual elements where possible.

Students will gain a thorough knowledge of the subject and good stitching technique. The ability to finish projects and the confidence to experiment further will come out of this.I believe in a solid grounding and understanding of the basics of a technique.

I particularly enjoy the technical challenge of fine techniques - silk shading, sometimes known as painting with a needle, goldwork and fine white embroidery. But also love crewel, canvas, ribbon, and stumpwork for the variety of stitches, textures and colours. Much of my work is a combination of techniques -silk and gold, canvas and bead and embroidered patchwork. I am drawn to all things natural. My designs are generally realistic and I love to mix techniques and textures, varied mediums and true vibrant colours.

My work has frequently been featured in Workbox magazine. My goldwork can be seen in Tracey Franklin’s Goldwork Book.

I graduated from The Apprenticeship scheme at the Royal School of Needlework in 1998 having received awards from both the Gold and Silver Wyre Drawers and the Clothworkers Livery companies. I then worked in the Studios there and taught until 2001 when I took the plunge to leave and become self employed. I have since taught for various guilds, private groups, and public classes both in the Uk and in France and the USA. I continue to teach regularly at the Royal School of Needlework for the Certificate and Diploma courses.