For its 2026–2027 programme, the OVGS is exploring the whimsical world of insects with a selection of classes on the theme of “A Bug’s Life.” Once again this year, we have something for everyone—two classes suitable for beginners and one faster-paced class geared toward more experienced stitchers. Classes take place during monthly in-person meetings, on the third Wednesday of the month. 

For any questions, please contact Kimberley, our Programme Director.  (Members can log in and use the Workshop Chair email address in the Contact Us area of this website.).

October and November 2026

Richelieu Butterfly

Registration deadline: Friday, October 9, 2026
Participant limit: 11

Designed by Joanna Jakuszewska

• Taught by: Gosia Niedbala
• Technique: Richelieu
• Level: Beginner (suitable for everyone)
• Cost: $15 (cash, cheque or e-transfer)

Kit contents: 

1. Linen fabric
2. All necessary embroidery thread
3. All necessary needles

This sometimes-overlooked whitework technique uses the humble buttonhole stitch over a thread padding to bring out the lines of the design, secure the threads of the fabric and connect different parts of the design with an intricate network of buttonhole bridges. Certain areas of the fabric are then cut out to reveal an airy, lace-like pattern reminiscent of stained-glass windows.

Pattern: This pattern was published in Inspirations Magazine, issue no. 122. Participants who do not own a copy of this issue must purchase the pattern from the Inspirations Studios website: https://www.inspirationsstudios.com/product/richelieu-butterfly-i122-digital.

Pre-work: No prework necessary.

January and February 2027

Dragonfly Ornament

Registration deadline: Friday, October 30, 2026
Participant limit: 12

Designed by Durene Jones

• Taught by: Charlene Martens
• Technique: Hardanger and cross stitch
• Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Cost: $20 (cash, cheque or e-transfer)

Kit contents:

1. 28-count evenweave fabric
2. All necessary embroidery threads
3. Fibrefill

Add a touch of whimsy to your home with this beautiful dragonfly ornament. Stitched on natural-colour 28-count evenweave, this heart-shaped design incorporates colourful cross-stitched dragonflies among white daisies, a soft blue hardanger motif and buttonhole edge for an added challenge. Participants will learn to cross-stitch on evenweave and to read both a cross-stitch chart and a hardanger pattern. They will also try their hand at some fundamental hardanger techniques, such as the famous kloster blocks, whipped bars, wrapped bars and dove’s eyes, as well as cutting and removing threads.

Pattern: Participants must purchase the pattern and instructions from DureneJCrossStitch on Etsy.

Pre-work: To be determined.

March and April 2027

Small World

Registration deadline: Friday, October 30, 2026
Participant limit: 10

Designed by Rose Andreeva

• Taught by: Kim Evans
• Technique: Surface embroidery, stumpwork, beading
• Level: Intermediate to advanced
• Cost: $25 (cash, cheque or e-transfer)

Kit contents:

1. All necessary fabric
2. All necessary threads
3. All necessary needles
4. All necessary beads

Master the much-feared French knot with Rose Andreeva’s Small World. This surface embroidery scene depicts an adorable stumpwork snail making its way toward a beaded strawberry hanging up above, with tiny ladybugs flitting around. With this project, participants will learn a wide variety of stitches, including the French knot, Ghiordes knot, pistil stitch, detached chain stitch and satin-stitched dot. They will also learn some basic couching and beading skills, as well as beginner stumpwork techniques, such as felt padding and the woven picot stitch.

Pattern: This pattern was published in Inspirations Magazine, issue no. 102. Participants who do not own a copy of this issue must purchase the pattern from the Inspirations Studios website: https://www.inspirationsstudios.com/product/small-world.

Pre-work: Students will receive their kits at the February meeting and will be asked to transfer the pattern onto the fabric before the first class, in March.

• Program Policy revised 2018
• OVGS Program Fund

Please note the OVGS Programme Fund applies only to the Programme Chair and is included for information purposes only.