Business Details
28 Years
experience
Creative Sewing Classes & Embroidery Services in Durham
Goldstitch Embroidery was founded in 1998 and has since established itself as a trusted provider of bespoke embroidery and sewing education. Our studio relocated to Durham Workspace in 2012, offering a warm, creative environment for individuals to learn and practice sewing. With over 30 years of combined experience in pattern drafting, dressmaking, and machine embroidery, our team prioritises mental wellbeing through hands-on craft activities. We provide structured sewing classes, project-based workshops, and fabric retail services, catering to both beginners and experienced sewers.Our expertise extends to personalised handkerchief embroidery, theatre/film projects, and wedding-related commissions nationwide. Recognised by Arts Council England for cultural contributions, we maintain a community-focused approach while supporting skill development and social connection through textile arts. Our operations adhere to strict quality standards, combining traditional techniques with modern digital embroidery technology.
Services
Embroidery Services
Sewing Classes
Fabric Retail
Workshops
Personalised Gifts
Dressmaking Tuition
Textile Sales
Craft Kits
Wedding Embroidery
Machine Hire
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of professional embroidery and dressmaking experience
- Small group workshops with expert one-to-one guidance
- Mental health-focused creative environment proven to reduce stress
- Stockists of premium Liberty Tana Lawn and specialist fabrics
- Award-winning cultural contributions to textile arts
What people say
Creative atmosphere
Expert one-to-one guidance
Mental health benefits
Quality fabric selection
Award-winning tuition
Services
Embroidery Services
We create bespoke embroidered pieces for weddings, corporate branding, and personal gifts. Our expertise includes machine embroidery, hand-stitched details, and logo digitisation. Clients benefit from our 30 years' experience in translating creative visions into durable textile art, using both traditional techniques and modern digital technology.
Sewing Classes
Structured tuition covers all skill levels from complete beginners to advanced dressmakers. Small group sessions ensure individual attention, with focuses on pattern adjustment, garment construction, and machine operation. Our Durham studio provides a therapeutic environment where participants develop technical skills while experiencing stress reduction through creative focus.
Fabric Retail
We stock premium dressmaking fabrics including Liberty Tana Lawn, stretch jerseys, and seasonal themed panels. Our curated selection caters to both fashion and home projects, with expert guidance on fabric properties and project suitability. Stock changes regularly to include limited edition prints and specialist materials for specific sewing requirements.
Workshops
Project-based workshops accommodate up to three participants for focused learning experiences. Options include garment making, bag construction, and festive craft projects. Each session combines technical instruction with creative freedom, enabling completion of finished items while mastering new sewing techniques in a supportive group environment.
Personalised Handkerchiefs
Our signature handkerchief service features monogramming, name embroidery, and bespoke message stitching. Available in luxury cotton and linen options, these heirloom-quality pieces make thoughtful gifts for weddings, graduations, and special occasions. We maintain strict copyright compliance for all custom text and design elements.
People
Jean Westgarth
Founder & Lead Tutor
With over 35 years' experience in dressmaking and machine embroidery, Jean established Goldstitch Embroidery in 1998. She specialises in pattern drafting, garment fitting, and therapeutic sewing applications. Her background includes bridal gown creation and theatrical costume work.
Questions
What sewing skill levels do you cater for?
We welcome all abilities from complete beginners to experienced sewers seeking advanced techniques. Our small group sizes ensure appropriate support for each participant's skill level.
Can I purchase fabrics online?
Yes, our fabric shop operates 24/7 online with next-day dispatch for most orders. In-person fabric selection requires prior appointment during studio hours.
Do you offer corporate embroidery services?
We provide logo digitisation and branded merchandise embroidery for businesses. This includes staff uniforms, promotional items, and event-specific pieces with custom design options.
Are sewing machines provided during classes?
Our studio supplies sewing machines and basic tools for class use. Participants may bring personal machines for familiarisation sessions or advanced projects requiring specific machine functions.
What mental health benefits do your workshops offer?
Sewing activities promote mindfulness through focused hand-eye coordination. Our community environment reduces isolation while creative achievements boost self-esteem, aligning with therapeutic craft principles recommended by mental health professionals.
How do I book a workshop?
Workshops can be reserved through our online booking system or by telephone. We recommend early booking as sessions with specialist tutors often reach capacity two months in advance.
