Ukrainian Embroidery Workshops

About the Programs

Lyshtva is an Ukrainian counted stitch embroidery technique that originated in the 19th century. It is an archaic Ukrainian word that, literally translated, means “trim around a door or window”, because of the elongated appearance of the stitches. Typically, stitches are worked from left to right in a form of a line, weaving around several threads of fabric. In the next row the pattern shifts by several threads, forming a geometric shape. As a result, the pattern looks almost identical on both sides. Visually it appears like a satin stitch, the difference being that lyshtva threads are counted.

Explore the lyshtva technique and create your own embroidery artwork in these workshops led by artist Nataliia Shynkarenko.

Location

Workshops will take place in the Cayuga Museum main gallery. During the November workshop, the museum will be finalizing a construction project and parking will only be available on Genesee Street, with the museum only being accessible through the front door which is at the top of a flight of stairs. Please plan accordingly. The Cayuga Museum is located at 203 Genesee St.

Sunday, November 17
1 – 4 pm

Workshop I:

Lyshtva & Shtapivka Embroidery Design

$35 General Admission, $30 Museum Members

Reservations Required; Supplies will be provided

Description

This workshop offers the opportunity for confident beginners and experienced artists to explore Ukrainian traditional embroidery. Participants will be provided with the chance to learn the basics of diagonal lyshtva and shtapivka embroidery, including stitches, tips, and techniques while working on a red and black star design. The project will be framed in a wooden hoop, providing a neat and simple way to display the artwork as an element of décor. All materials will be provided by the instructor.

Note: Although for this project we use a larger count embroidery fabric (14 Aida), some people may benefit from using a magnifying glass/lamp. The participants are encouraged to bring their own device if needed.

Registration is required as capacity is limited.

Register for This Workshop
Sunday, December 1
1 – 4 pm

Workshop II:

Ukrainian Chain Stitch Embroidery Tote Bag

$45 General Admission, $40 Museum Members

Reservations Required; Supplies will be provided

Description

This workshop offers the opportunity for confident beginners and experienced artists to explore Ukrainian traditional embroidery. Participants will be provided with the chance to learn the basics of Ukrainian chain stitch embroidery, including stitches, tips, and techniques while working on a red and black flower design. A canvas tote bag will be used providing a perfect way to display the artwork in everyday life. All materials will be provided by the instructor.

Note: Although for this project we use a larger count canvas, some people may benefit from using a magnifying glass/lamp. The participants are encouraged to bring their own device if needed.

Registration is required as capacity is limited.

Register for This Workshop

About the Artist

Nataliia Shynkarenko is a self-taught embroidery artist based in Auburn, NY. Born and raised in Ukraine, and starting in childhood, she became influenced by her grandmother’s artwork. Working initially in contemporary cross stitch technique, Nataliia also pursued her studies in Kyiv, Ukraine and in Syracuse, NY. She has a master’s degree in environmental science. Since 2017, Nataliia has become fascinated with Ukrainian traditional embroidery. Variety of Ukrainian folk symbols and techniques have inspired her to implement traditional art in modern-day wearable items. In her works Nataliia uses a traditional color palette and experiments with color combinations. She obtained qualifications from Prekrasa Studio, a Ukrainian folk art school, and through many discussions with fellow artists back in Ukraine.

Questions and Additional Information: