Introduction to Hand Embroidery

The tambour hook had been used in Asia for centuries when it was discovered in France in the mid-18th century. French artisans adapted this technique, leading to the creation of the famous Luneville embroidery. This sophisticated embroidery technique, which is still used in today's fashion industry, is a wonderful example of cultural exchange and the evolution of craft techniques.

During this initiation, you will get an in-depth insight into the technique and rich history of the tambour hook as an embroidery technique. Using several examples from the MoMu Study Collection, textile restorer and embroiderer Kenny Damian will demonstrate the different possibilities you can create with the tambour hook.

Kenny Damian is a textile restorer and freelance embroiderer. She has studied various hand embroidery techniques such as aari embroidery, Kutch (India) embroidery, gold and bead embroidery and needlepoint lace. She has learned these techniques and skills directly from embroiderers and through classes at home and abroad. She applies the techniques in themselves or in combination with others and does so for both contemporary and historical designs.