Feller Mirror

Kate Barlow
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We invite you to embark on a year-long journey in silk under the expert guidance of Kate Barlow. Beginning in March, two groups students will begin the process of recreating their very own 17th Century silk work frame.

This 13 month course includes 65 hours of formal tuition, during which time students will create their very own version of this 17th Century design.

Starts: Mar 21, 2025

13 Months

Silk Embroidery
Feller Mirror

A Master Class in Silk Shading

Once part of the renowned Feller Collection, this rare 17th Century Charles II wall mirror features twelve individual motifs, arranged around the central mirror - among them Charles II and Catherine of Braganza, a standing lion, recumbent leopard and stag, and a majestic unicorn.

Stitched entirely in silk, the Feller Mirror is the ideal subject of study for those wishing to perfect their silk work technique.

Kate will guide students through each design in turn, exploring technique, materials, colour, and design - as well as the history of each motif.

About This Course

During this 13 month course under the expert guidance of Kate Barlow, students will recreate their own mirror, beginning with the castle and ending with the lion. Stitched entirely in silk, the Feller Mirror is the ideal subject of study for those wishing to perfect their silk work technique.

  • Be able to create your own embroidered heirloom, with a tangible use, to pass down the generations

  • Enjoy a group experience and develop friendships with like-minded stitchers

  • Learn how to handle and embroider with silk threads, achieving a smooth and consistent finish

  • Gain confidence in your own designing and creativity

  • Master silk shading techniques based on 17th century embroidery.

  • Gain a profound sense of freedom with your needle and gain the confidence to take on more advanced silk and goldwork designs.

The Details

Download Brouchure

Group 1 Dates

21 March 2025 - 24 April 2026

Group 1 classes will take place on the following dates at 10-12.30am then 1.30-4pm UK time

21 March 2025 - Framing Up
25 April 2025 - The Castle
30 May 2025 - The Stag & Carnation
20 June 2025 - The Bird
Date TBC - Special Session

-- Summer Break --

22 August 2025 - The Leopard & Oak Tree
21 September 2025 - Finishing the Top (Please note this class takes place on a Sunday)
17 October 2025 - The King & Queen
28 November 2025 - The King & Queen
13 December 2025 - Special Session with Sarah Thursfield

-- Winter Break --

23 January 2026 - The Unicorn & Rose
20 February 2026 - The Carnation, Snail & Grotto
20 March 2026 - The Lion & Peach Tree
24 April 2026 - Finishing Up

Group 2 Dates

22 March 2025 - 25 April 2026

Group 2 classes will take place on the following dates at 3-5.30pm then 6.30-9pm UK time

22 March 2025 - Framing Up
26 April 2025 - The Castle
31 May 2025 - The Stag & Carnation
21 June 2025 - The Bird
Date TBC - Session Session

-- Summer Break--

23 August 2025 - The Leopard & Oak Tree
20 September 2025 - Finishing the Top
18 October 2025 - The King & Queen
29 November 2025 - The King & Queen
13 December 2025 - Special Session with Sarah Thursfield

-- Winter Break--

24 January 2026 - The Unicorn & Rose
21 February 2026 - The Carnation, Snail & Grotto
21 March 2026 - The Lion & Peach Tree
25 April 2026 - Finishing Up

What's Included

60 hours of tuition with Kate Barlow

This special course will be led by an equally special tutor. As an RSN Future Tutor graduate, with over 10 years industry experience, Kate's professionalism, attention to detail, skill as an educator, and knowledge and artistry as an embroiderer, make her the perfect choice to lead this course.

  • Over 12 sessions, Kate will cover each section of the design and the techniques needed to take you to completion of this stunning design.
  • Between classes you can ask questions and share your progress on the exclusive Feller Mirror community space.
  • All classes are recorded with lifetime access to give you all the support you need on your stitching journey.

Special Sessions

During the course, students will be treated to two special sessions that bring to life the design and its history.

Our first confirmed speaker is renowned costume expert Sarah Thursfield. Sharing her vast knowledge of the textiles of the period, she will take us deeper into the dress worn by the King and Queen in the frame design.

Our second speaker is to be confirmed.

The highest quality materials

We strive to provided only the most authentic and sustainable materials - and working with Kate, we create a kit that includes everything you need to stitch the design to the highest quality

  • All threads & needles required to complete the design.
  • Stitch & colour charts.
  • Pre-printed silk fabric, backing fabric & practice piece.
  • All materials for framing up.

All you need to complete the set up is a 24inch slate frame. To ensure you have all the tools you need, we also provide complimentary access to our step-by-step video guide to setting up a slate frame

In a nutshell I loved it! It was well planned and organized. Kate is professional and has a Zen quality to her approach. She researches and generously shares information related to the design. She is a delight.
Carol Ann Feller Mirror Frame Couse 2023/24 Cohort

Master the Art of Silk Shading

Starts: Mar 21, 2025

Meet Your Tutor

Kate Barlow

Professional Embroidery tutor and Fellow of the RSN

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Kate Barlow is a renowned embroidery artist celebrated for her expertise in a broad range of needlework techniques. With a deep passion for preserving and teaching traditional embroidery, Kate has dedicated her career to mastering the intricate art of hand embroidery.
Learn More About Kate Barlow

You might be wondering

What size is the design?

Design Dimensions: 55 x 40 cm (22 x 16 in)
Fabric Dimensions: 65 x 50 cm (25 x 20 in)

What else will I need?

Students will need a 24inch slate frame.

How long will it take me?

This course takes place over 13 months with time to stitch between each session. You are not expected to have finished your design by the time the course ends but you may find that you are very nearly there!

How do I join the live classes?

All classes will take place on Zoom, which can be accessed directly from your dashboard. A link to the session will also be sent to you before the class.

Delivery & Returns

Packages will be sent by express delivery and shipping is included.

Unfortunately we cannot offer a refund on this course once a deposit has been placed.