Glamis Castle

Glamis Whitework: From Castle Ceiling to Needle and Thread

Moya Sands
Glamis Whitework: From Castle Ceiling to Needle and Thread

As we prepare for the 2026 Lady Anne’s Online Needlework Festival, we are delighted to introduce one of this year’s featured designs: Glamis Whitework, a beautiful beginner-friendly project inspired by the historic architecture of Glamis Castle.


Inspired by a 1621 Architectural Masterpiece

In a break from our usual textile inspired designs, this design takes its inspiration from the interior of a castle’s magnificent vaulted ceiling, crafted by Scottish artisans in 1621.

 

 

Spanning sixty feet by twenty-two, the ceiling features intricate plasterwork and the monograms of John, 2nd Earl of Kinghorne, and his Countess, Margaret Erskine. Its elegant geometry and delicate reliefs translate perfectly into the refined language of whitework embroidery.

 


A Gentle Introduction to Whitework

Taught by acclaimed Australian embroidery artist Di Kirchner, the Glamis Whitework class offers a welcoming introduction to traditional whitework techniques.

Over two days, Di will guide students step-by-step through the fundamentals, helping newcomers build skill and confidence while exploring the quiet beauty of this historic technique.

 


Meet Your Tutor: Di Kirchner

Di Kirchner is an accomplished embroidery artist whose career began at Country Bumpkin in South Australia.

She later completed a Diploma in Technical Hand Embroidery at the Royal School of Needlework (2024) and has contributed to Inspirations Magazine for over 20 years. Di’s teaching is warm, clear, and rooted in a deep love of traditional needlework, especially whitework and needlelace.

Join Us in February 2026

The Glamis Whitework class offers a unique chance to learn from an expert while stitching a design inspired by one of Scotland’s most remarkable historic interiors.

 

 

We look forward to welcoming stitchers from around the world to the 2026 Lady Anne’s Online Needlework Festival.

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