Sign up to our new 6-month embroidery course!
Vyshyvanka – the traditional Ukrainian art of embroidery is more than just a piece of clothing. Each embroidered shirt is a manifestation of our heritage – and makes anyone without one jealous.
Want to make your own, and learn about the deep history of this art form along the way? Join VATAHA’s vyshyvanka program to create something truly special – your own Vyshyvanka that reflects your personal style, artistic vision, and connection to Ukrainian traditions.
Whether you’re an experienced embroiderer or have never picked up a needle and thread before, our “My OWN Vyshyvanka” program includes everything from selecting materials and patterns to embroidering and assembling the finished garment.
Creating your own Vyshyvanka will teach each participant more than just embroidery skills, but also the importance of preserving and passing on these traditions, adding their own personal touch and handing them down as a legacy.
This is a limited time offer as there are only 10 spots available per city and the sessions begin on December 9. Sign up here to secure your spot in this unique workshop series dedicated to community and craftsmanship.
Where and when?
Spoken in both Ukrainian and English, the program will take place at three locations:
AMsterdam
- Instructor: Anastasiia Khomenko
- Het Huis van de Wijk De Pijp: Tweede van der Helststraat 66, 1072 PG Amsterdam
- Weekend afternoons
THe Hague
- Instructor: Olha Andruschenko
- Studio Nothing Basic: Frederikstraat 481, 2514 LN Den Haag
- Weekend afternoons
Rotterdam
- Instructor: Iryna Umanets
- Location TBD
- Weekend afternoons
Costs involved
There is a one time payment to cover the material costs (starting from €30). To honor the expertise and time of our artisan instructors, we ask for a donation of €20 per masterclass session.
For reference, a traditionally handmade Vyshyvanka shirt starts at €200. Your OWN Vyshyvanka is an investment in your family legacy and an inheritance item for your children.
What to expect
This Vyshyvanka course is composed of four mandatory masterclasses and bi-weekly non-mandatory practical sessions. In the four masterclasses (outlined below), participants will learn the theory and heritage of Vyshyvanka embroidery.
Missing out on any of these four sessions means that the participant will be less equipped to independently continue embroidering their Vyshyvankas in the practical sessions, which focus on community building and social gathering.
This plan covers the main stages of creating a Vyshyvanka, from concept to finished product, allowing participants to deeply engage with the traditions of Ukrainian embroidery.
Stage 1: Introduction and Preparation
- Introduction of participants, workshop presentation, and a brief history of the
- Ukrainian Vyshyvanka.
- Discussion of participants’ ideas, needs assessment for style and design.
- Consultation on embroidery options and fabric selection.
- Taking individual measurements to order the appropriate materials.
Interim Stage: Ordering and delivery of fabric and necessary materials.
Stage 2: Material Distribution and Patterning
- Distribution of individual material kits, including fabric, threads, and tools.
- Master class on calculating seam allowances and patterning the Vyshyvanka according to the chosen design.
- Preparatory processes (fabric marking, edge treatment, etc.).
Interim Stage: Embroidery gatherings where the Vyshyvanka-making process continues. These gatherings are open to anyone who wishes to observe, immerse themselves in the art of embroidery, and learn the techniques demonstrated during the session.
Stage 3: Embroidery Process
- Overview of embroidery techniques, explanation of main motifs, and symbolism.
- Beginning the embroidery of key elements on the patterns under the instructors’ guidance.
Interim Stage: Embroidery gatherings continue.
Stage 4: Assembling the Vyshyvanka
- Completing the embroidery and assembling the Vyshyvanka.
- Finishing details for the neckline and cuffs.
- Basic hand-sewing techniques (e.g., joining elements), attaching gussets if needed.
- Final presentation of completed Vyshyvankas, where everyone can share their story.
Interim Stage: Dedicated solely to assembling the shirts.
Finishing touches
Community building is a high priority in this program, so all the participants can continue discussing their Vyshyvanka visions, asking each other questions, and sharing updates with other participants via a group chat.
At the end of the 6-month program, participants will be invited to exhibit their unique creations at VATAHA’s annual Vyshyvanka Day celebration in the Hague, where other esteemed guests will include representatives from embassies bordering Ukraine.
This program is made possible by the support from our partners: Nothing Basic and Ukrainian Women Refugees Association & United Way the Netherlands