Are you fascinated by intricate beadwork and embroidery? Tambour beading, a centuries-old technique, offers a unique approach to embellishing fabrics with beads and sequins, creating stunning patterns and textures.
What is Tambour Beading?
Tambour beading is a specialized form of embroidery that uses a fine hook, known as a tambour hook, to create a continuous chain stitch. This method allows artisans to attach beads and sequins swiftly and securely, resulting in elaborate and delicate designs. The technique gets its name from the French word "tambour," meaning drum, as the fabric is traditionally stretched tightly over a frame, resembling a drum, to facilitate the beading process.
Bee & Honeycomb tambour embroidery
A Brief History
The origins of tambour beading trace back to the 18th century, with influences from various cultures, including Chinese, Indian, Persian, and Turkish embroidery traditions. It gained popularity in Europe and the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming a favored pastime among the aristocracy. The technique was often used to adorn clothing, accessories, and home furnishings, showcasing the wearer's wealth and status. britannica.com
Haute Couture Tambour Beaded Invertebrate Art by Atelier Noboru
Common Applications
Today, tambour beading is widely used in haute couture fashion, bridal wear, and costume design. Its ability to create intricate and shimmering embellishments makes it ideal for:
Wedding Gowns: Adding elegance and sparkle to bridal attire.
Evening Wear: Enhancing the glamour of dresses and gowns.
Accessories: Decorating handbags, shoes, and jewelry.
Interior Decor: Embellishing items like pillows and curtains for a luxurious touch.
Join Our Tambour Beading Workshop
We are thrilled to offer a rare opportunity to learn the exquisite art of Tambour Beading—the foundation of haute couture embellishment—taught by internationally renowned instructor Robert Haven.
This hands-on workshop will introduce you to the tools, materials, and techniques of traditional tambour beading, as practiced in the French Haute Couture industry. You'll start by learning how to prepare your fabric on a frame, progress to mastering the basic tambour stitch with thread, and then move on to applying sequins, seed beads, and bugle beads using the same essential technique.
You’ll gain firsthand experience in:
Setting up your tambour frame and tools
Practicing the fundamental tambour stitch with thread
Applying two different sequin techniques for couture-style embellishment
Working with seed beads and bugle beads to add texture and shine
Creating surface stitching designs using just the tambour hook and thread
This is a unique opportunity to learn from a master of the craft, and spaces are limited!
Class Details
Dates & Time: Friday/Saturday April 18 & April 19 | 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Location:
The Sewing Room | 1419 Park Street, Suite G, Alameda
Price: $400 per student (Adults & Kids)
Who Can Attend: Open to students ages 13+ and all experience levels. Beginners welcome!
Reserve Your Spot Today! Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot by April 1st. To register or learn more click on the button below:
Embark on a creative journey and add a touch of elegance to your creations with the timeless art of tambour beading. We look forward to crafting with you!
Until next time, Happy Fashion!
xo Jennifer
Note: For a visual introduction to tambour beading, check out this informative video:
