Examples of historical sewing stitchesThe sewing machine is a 19th century invention. Before that, people sewed by hand. Textile finds from prehistoric times, the Roman period and the Middle Ages show which stitches the seamstresses used. During the workshop we look at these finds and make a pouch for which we use as many different stitches as possible for the seams and hems, ranging from simple and purely functional to elegant braiding stitches. For a blog about this workshop held in 2020, written by Nelleke Ganzevoort, click here.
Participants do not need to bring anything, except patience and possibly their reading glasses (because some stitches are quite delicate).
This Friday morning workshop is given by Dorothee Olthof, an expert in the field of archaeological textiles and in the reconstruction of medieval and later clothing.
- Date: Wednesday, 13th of May 2026.
- Time: 10.00 - 13.00 pm.
- Venue: TRC Leiden, Boerhaavelaan 6, 2334 EN, Leiden.
- Teacher: Dorothee Olthof.
- Language: Dutch/English.
- Costs: 45 euros. Coffee, tea and materials are provided. Reading glasses might be necessary for the more delicate stiches.
- Maximum number of participants: 10. Minimum: 4. If the minimum number of participants is reached, confirmation and invoices shall be sent.
Please register in advance: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
