Claire Frampton’s journey with the School of Stitched Textiles is a powerful reflection of what can happen when curiosity meets commitment. Beginning her studies during the uncertainty of lockdown, Claire set out to build confidence in her embroidery skills and learn how to develop her own design ideas. What started as a constructive way to spend time soon became something far more meaningful.
With a background in cross stitch and self-led projects, Claire already had a creative foundation. Through her progression across multiple Skill Stages, she expanded both her technical ability and creative thinking, exploring a wide range of historical and contemporary techniques. Alongside this, she developed strong research skills, drawing inspiration from museums, workshops and the wider textile community.
Her growth has been both personal and professional. From designing and realising her own solo exhibition to embracing new techniques like free motion embroidery, Claire has continually challenged herself to step outside her comfort zone. Completing our beginner Machine Embroidery course (Skill Stage 2) marked another milestone in building confidence with new tools and processes, strengthening her versatility as a textile artist.
Claire’s story is a testament to the transformative power of structured learning, creative exploration and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
Motivation for Studying
I first enrolled onto Hand Embroidery Skill Stage 2 in 2020 during the Coronavirus lockdown. At the time, I already had some experience with sewing, particularly cross stitch kits, and I had also created a few of my own designs which I turned into cushion covers as gifts for friends and family.
I had actually come across the School of Stitched Textiles earlier when I was a bursary finalist in 2018. It felt like an exciting opportunity, and it encouraged me to explore the courses in more detail. When lockdown came, it felt like the right time to commit. I wanted to build my confidence, develop my technical knowledge, and most importantly learn how to turn my own ideas into original designs. It also felt like a really positive and constructive way to use my time.
I discovered SST through social media and was drawn to the flexibility of distance learning. Being able to study in my own time suited me perfectly, especially during lockdown. I chose an accredited course because I wanted to work towards recognised standards and gain a qualification that reflected my progress.
Since then, I have continued my journey with SST, completing Hand Embroidery Skill Stage 2, 3 and 4, and more recently Machine Embroidery Skill Stage 2. Returning to study again and again has been a natural decision for me, as each course has helped me build further confidence, skills and creative direction.
Biggest Takeaways
One of the most valuable things I have gained from studying with SST is a much broader understanding of both historical and contemporary embroidery techniques. Before starting, my experience was mainly focused on cross stitch and tent stitch. Now, I feel I have a far wider technical knowledge, not just in embroidery but in textile techniques more generally.
Alongside developing practical skills, I have also grown in confidence creatively. I have learnt how to research, develop ideas and push them further, which has had a real impact on my work. I particularly enjoyed visiting museums as part of my research, and attending workshops and classes helped me reconnect with others and build a sense of community after lockdown.
From Lockdown Stitching to Solo Exhibitions
Completing Hand Embroidery Skill Stage 4 in 2024 was a real highlight. As part of this, I designed a solo exhibition titled Fragments to Fabric for the Constance Howard Gallery at Goldsmiths, London. The exhibition went on to take place in 2025, which was an incredible experience and something I would not have felt confident pursuing without the skills and belief I had developed through my studies. It also gave me the opportunity to expand on my ideas, including creating a large double sided wall hanging from samples and pieces I had developed throughout the course.
During Skill Stage 4, I was introduced to free motion embroidery using a sewing machine. This sparked my interest in machine based techniques, and led me to enrol onto Machine Embroidery Skill Stage 2. This course helped me build real confidence in using a sewing machine creatively, something that had previously felt quite daunting.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, I am continuing to build on everything I have learnt. In May 2026, I will be holding another solo exhibition at Abingdon County Hall Museum as part of Oxfordshire Artweeks. This feels like a natural progression for me and a valuable opportunity to develop my artist profile, gain more experience exhibiting, and connect with new audiences.
I am also currently studying Patchwork and Quilting Skill Stage 3. After completing Machine Embroidery Skill Stage 2, I felt confident enough to take on a course that combines both machine and hand sewing techniques. I had already explored some elements of patchwork and quilting through my previous studies and workshops, so this feels like an exciting next step.
In the future, I would consider becoming a tutor with SST. I feel this would be a really rewarding way to continue developing my skills while supporting others on their own creative journeys.
I would absolutely recommend these courses to others. They provide a real opportunity to develop both skills and confidence in a supportive and flexible way. My advice to new students would be to enjoy the challenge, stay open to learning new techniques, and take a positive approach to the process.
