Classes / Shows

We are extremely pleased to announce that in 2019 for the first time in the U.S., Haute Couture designer Sarah Palow will be accepting new students to learn this age-old distinctive technique normally confined to the glamorous fashion runways and “ateliers” (fashion design studios) of Paris. She will be offering a beginner’s level class that will teach students the basic stitches that will enable them to create a beautifully customized embroidered sample fabric.

What is “Lunéville Embroidery”?

     “Lunéville” (or Tambour embroidery as it is called in the U.S.) is a meticulous hand embroidery technique that uses a small crochet-like hook to work stitches one at a time on the underside of a piece of fabric that has been stretched across a wooden frame. In this introductory three-day class, the student will learn the basic Lunéville stitches using the “Lunéville hook tool”. The first day is to be spent practicing the basics by stretching the fabric in the frame, learning about the specifics of Haute Couture embroidery and attempting the basic stitches. The second day is dedicated to learning more complex stitches that include stitching with beads and sequins. Finally, the third day is reserved for finishing the student’s sample fabric as well as learning some more advanced 3D stitches. All required materials for the class are included in the price of the course. These materials include organza, Swarovski crystals, metallic threads, sequins, and “charlotte beads”. The Lunéville hook and frame are also included for the student’s use.

Who is this class intended for?

     This class is perfect for anyone from beginners who have no experience yet a sincere desire to learn, to the more experienced individual who wants to add a new technique to their skill set. Those who have taken this class in the past come from a diverse background and include dressmakers, students, hobbyists, jewelry designers, bridal designers, garment restoration specialists,  and artistic costume designers. Students work at their own pace, with Sarah’s full encouragement and support at every step.

Who is Sarah Palow?

     Sarah is a dual Canadian and U.K. citizen who resided full time in France for 5 years, where she completed her rigorous apprenticeship that culminated in the distinctive certificate of Professional Haute Couture Embroidery and Beadwork at the prestigious Maison Lesage (an Atelier owned by the exclusive House of Chanel’s Métiers d’art). Sarah chose to pursue an extensive amount of professional education in her field which began at Ontario’s renowned Sheridan College where she sought to understand all aspects of the textile arts. Sarah is one of a rare few in the U.S. who learned from directly from the fashion masters of Paris to become certified in the guarded art of Haute Couture. Her teaching style is sincerely warm and gracefully patient, as she endeavors to guide her students to full proficiency in a fun and relaxed environment.

Sarah created this class to teach this distinct embroidery technique that is utilized in creating some truly magnificent beaded and embroidered fabrics. Since Couture embroidery is ubiquitously adorned in the trend-setting releases of designers such as Chanel and Dior, and usually only viewed to the delight of fashion enthusiasts worldwide at great distances; Sarah would love to see this artform expanded further into the U.S. in order to share her love for this age-old European craft. To this end, she has labored to translate this passion into a fully comprehensive format which she has previously only taught overseas. Sarah is confident based on years of experience in her ability to teach her students how to create their own stunning, couture wearable fabrics, inspired by the unique beauty each student has in their hearts which she believes exists in each and every individual. Become one of the few to take her classes in select U.S. cities across the region, and become a member of our exclusive new community…