Jewels of Winter
Video Course and Christmas Ornaments
Project Description
Jewels of Winter was a free, online embroidery course designed to introduce participants to the art of pearl embroidery. Combining traditional techniques with modern applications, the project focused on creating unique Christmas tree decorations while fostering a community of embroidery enthusiasts. The course aimed to demonstrate the full process of ornament development, from framing the fabric to finishing the backside. Materials were delivered through videos, online articles, and PDFs, and participants were provided with two designs to practice and refine their skills.
Handcrafted Ornaments
Jewels of Winter is more than an online course—it's the beginning of a series of heirloom Christmas tree ornaments. Each decoration is crafted using traditional Russian pearl embroidery with premium materials like shell beads, vintage crystals, and fine fabrics.
Embracing Traditional Techniques
The course focused on the traditional pearl setting technique, guiding participants through essential steps like pattern transfer, fabric preparation, and careful execution to achieve a classic, refined result.
Inspiring Creativity with Materials
Participants explored various ways to decorate ornaments, using crystals, bead combinations, and French wire, while incorporating fine fabrics as sophisticated backdrops. The course demonstrated how different materials, such as pearl beads or seed beads, could uniquely influence the final design.
Providing High-Quality Instruction
Although the course was free, it offered exceptional content. Participants received detailed video tutorials with process close-ups, concise voiceover explanations, and short, focused videos—each no longer than 20 minutes—for a seamless and enjoyable learning experience.
The course focused on the traditional pearl setting technique, guiding participants through essential steps like pattern transfer, fabric preparation, and careful execution to achieve a classic, refined result.
Jewels of Winter: A Unique Embroidery Experience
Jewels of Winter was a live, one-time project developed from the initial idea of introducing participants to the traditional technique of Russian pearl embroidery. Over the course of two months, I brought this vision to life, creating comprehensive materials and videos that showcased the full process of ornament creation. The project included two articles about Russian pearl embroidery — one for public view and another exclusive for participants — offering deeper insights into the history and significance of this technique.
The course provided a free, limited opportunity for participants to learn and experiment with pearl embroidery in a practical and engaging way. More than 20 individuals joined, making it a truly collaborative and rewarding experience. Jewels of Winter combined tradition, creativity, and accessibility, leaving participants inspired by the beauty and versatility of this heritage craft.
