You may not have heard of Tambour. However, if you’ve ever been captivated by an outfit on the Paris catwalk, exquisitely adorned with beads, paillettes and crystals, then you’ve already seen what the art of Tambour can do. Tambour is a form of embroidery practiced in some of the most famous fashion ateliers around the world. The technique is believed to have originated in seventeenth century India, but was soon adopted across Europe and is now used by many of the finest fashion designers working today.
The method appears simple. Using a tiny, specialised Tambour hook, strings of beads are secured to a delicate ground fabric which has been stretched, drum tight, across a frame. However, as simple as it may sound, success comes from understanding the movement and perfecting the hold and twist of the hook. When mastered, watching a skilled Tambour artist is like seeing music come to life. The elegant flow of Tambour is like no other embroiderytechnique – it is a beautiful sight to behold and a wonderful skill to perform.
If you have ever dreamed of learning and mastering the art of Tambour, you will probably know that the workshops of Lesage in Paris were one of the few places you could go to do so. However, you no longer need to get on a plane, as those Parisienne skills are now available for you to learn right here.
I was taught by the best in Europe, but I am now privileged to be able to bring those skills here to you. I have always believed that sharing a passion is more important than the passion itself, so being able to pass on my skills fulfils everything I’ve worked for. There is no longer any reason for these skills to be limited to those who can afford the time and cost of going overseas. It doesn’t matter if you are a young fashion student wanting to expand your horizons, an experienced designer needing to gain an edge, or simply someone who adores the beauty of beaded embroidery and wants to try it to satisfy their own, personal passion, this course is suitable for everyone.
The Introduction to Tambour course is delivered online, so you are able to work in your own time and at your own pace. I will demonstrate all of the techniques across the series of five videos, which you will be able to pause, rewind and revisit whenever you need. The course allows you to learn the basics of Tambour without the pressure of time limits, something I feel is essential for you to master the skills and grow the passion without ever feeling like you can’t keep up.
When you have completed the Introductory course, you can then continue to deepen your skills with private, tailor made sessions. During these sessions I will guide you through the more advanced techniques, working with you as you strive towards mastery and helping you to feel the musical flow which is inherent in the Tambour technique.
I feel honoured to share the skills of the finest European fashion houses with all of the immensely talented artists here in Australia. Allow me to help you start your journey, with the Introduction to Tambour course available now.