Tambour Beading Basics Online Taster

Location: Via Zoom

Duration: 3 hours

PLEASE NOTE THERE IS NO KIT WITH THIS COURSE, PLEASE USE THE KIT LIST TO SOURCE YOUR MATERIALS 

Tambour beading is a mesmerizing and intricate craft that uses a specialized hook to create delicate chain stitches and apply beads with precision. Once reserved for the world of haute couture and intricate embellishments, tambour beading is now a celebrated technique that adds texture and elegance to fashion, accessories, and interiors. Hand & Lock’s Tambour Beading Basics course provides the perfect introduction to this art form, guiding you step-by-step as you master the foundational skills needed to begin your tambour journey.

Delivered via Zoom with high-resolution cameras, this immersive three-hour session offers a close-up view of every movement, ensuring you don’t miss any details. In the relaxed, interactive atmosphere that Hand & Lock is known for, our expert tutors will recreate the spirit of the studio, helping you feel confident and supported as you learn this notoriously challenging yet rewarding technique from the comfort of your own home.

This hands-on course is designed to equip you with the core skills needed to begin tambour beading. Our expert tutors will guide you through the mechanics of a tambour hook, teaching you how to handle it safely and use it effectively to create the signature chain stitch. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll learn how to apply beads using the tambour hook, opening up a world of creative possibilities for intricate embellishments.

You’ll also benefit from troubleshooting tips and personalized guidance as you practice this delicate and precise method, building your confidence and understanding of the tambour technique. By the end of the session, you’ll have gained hands-on experience and created a beautiful design showcasing your new skills—an inspiring first step into the enchanting art of tambour beading.

Before every taster course, we ensure that all students are fully prepared by providing a detailed kit list well in advance. This list includes all the materials and tools you'll need to participate in the session, along with direct links to recommended suppliers, making it easy for you to source everything ahead of time. You will need: Size 70 Tambour Hook, Matt Fil A Gant Thread, Strung Seed Beads, Strung Bugle Beads, Silk Organza 40x40cm piece, Embroidery Needles size 12, 10 inch Hoop (preferably a seat frame) and Embroidery Scissors.

All our course times are run on UK time, please check here for help converting to another time zone.

Our online courses are delivered via Zoom using a high quality visualiser. Please download Zoom before the course begins (we will send a guide on how to do this when the course is booked). We also have an accompanying WhatsApp group for each of our courses. This group enables you to connect with other students and the tutor by sharing photos of your progress. Please download WhatsApp before the course starts (we will also send a guide on how to do this when the course is booked). All of our online course sessions and recorded and sent out after the class for you to keep forever! They are sent on a link for you to download after the class so please don't worry if you miss a session of tutoring, you can always catch up using the recording. 

Teaching Style

Hand & Lock’s embroidery courses are renowned for their welcoming, community-focused atmosphere, where students of all levels are embraced as part of the Hand & Lock family. With small class sizes and attentive, personable tutors, every student receives tailored guidance and encouragement to help them achieve their creative goals. The school fosters a supportive environment where camaraderie flourishes, and lifelong friendships are often formed over a shared passion for embroidery. Students frequently remark on the approachable nature of the tutors, who go above and beyond to share their expertise while celebrating each individual's progress. Beyond technical instruction, Hand & Lock creates a space where creativity thrives, and students leave not just with enhanced skills but with cherished memories of collaboration, inspiration, and a true sense of belonging to an extraordinary community.

Tutor Profiles

Our bespoke classes are taught be expert hand embroiderers who have worked in the couture industry for brands such as Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Dior, Valentino, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, YSL, Givenchy, Dolce & Gabbana, Schiaparelli, Lanvin and Burberry to name a few. The classes will cover the basics, insider tips and practical application making sure students are fully equipped to go on and apply what they have learned to their own garments and develop their own unique styles. Our tutors are work embroiderers first and tutors second which means they are able to give you a unique insight into the magical world of couture hand embroidery. 

Read more about our amazing tutors here

Testimonials

If you would like to hear from some of our past students you can read our testimonials here. For more information about our courses check out our FAQ page  here.