The Premise

Our concept for this project is a collaborative, community textile piece. We’re asking Coventry representatives to each create a small piece of textile art that will help form the main aesthetic of the sign. The focus of the sign will be on the word ‘Coventry’ where all the artworks will be displayed and sealed in resin, preserving them for years to come. Our vision for this project is to showcase Coventry from the point of view of the residents, focusing on the personal narratives of the many lives that reside in the city.

This new 4m sign will sit in situ on the Concordia entrance of Coventry railway station and will be introduced in time for the Coventry City of Culture Celebrations in 2021. The sign, for many, will be the first thing they see as they enter the city by train and the last thing they see as they leave. By asking individuals to stitch images that represent ‘what Coventry means to them’, we hope to bring together the works of Coventry’s diverse community welcoming others to our City.

Choosing your Design

We want you to stitch a design that relates to your personal story of living in this city. In a nutshell, we want you to introduce yourself to those passing through the station, through stitch. This could come in many forms; maybe you stitch an image that represents you or your favourite place to go in the city? Or, maybe you stitch an image from your favourite photo taken in Coventry? The sky’s the limit, all we ask is that you refrain from including text in your designs (and of course, any explicit or offensive images).

There are many embroidery templates online that can be used for this project (we have included a few examples below). To transfer an embroidery template onto your fabric; place your fabric over the design and draw over the outline using a sharp HB pencil. You may find it easier to hold the design up to the window as you trace. If you’re struggling to see your pencil lines try a darker pencil or a fine tip pen.

Alternatively you may like to create your own design. To do this we recommend you draw your design out on paper before transferring it onto your fabric, just to check you’re happy with it. Then, in the same way, you can either trace your design onto your fabric or draw it on freehand using a sharp pencil.

Please note: intricate designs with small details will be hard to stitch than those with larger shapes.

Download printable PDFs here.

Getting Started with your Stitching

Here are some top tips on how to get started with your stitching.

Framing Up

Threading your Needle

Starting Without a Knot

Stitch Library

Why not have a go at some of these stitches in your design?

Back Stitch

Stem Stitch

Fench Knot

Pistil Stitch

Lazy Daisy

Thank you so much for taking part, we can’t wait to see what you create!
If you have any further questions about the project please feel free to get in contact.