Phulkari is a traditional embroidery practised by women across the Punjab region, which today spans India and Pakistan. The name comes from phul (flower) and kari (work), and the designs range from flowing florals to bold geometric patterns. It is worked as counted thread embroidery from the reverse of the cloth, with long darning stitches that follow the weave. The design builds
up slowly on the front, and you only see its full extent once the piece is finished.

In this workshop you will learn the core phulkari stitches and use them to work a geometric floral motif. Along the way you’ll discover how counting threads, changing the direction of the stitch and catching the light in the silk bring the pattern to life. No previous experience of phulkari is needed.

Ekta grew up in North India and will share phulkaris inherited from her mother and grandmother, giving participants a rare chance to see historic pieces from her family up close.

Date
Thursday, December 3rd, 2026

Time
10:00-12:30 pm ET

Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants the day before class

Cost
$75

Recording

All World Embroidery Series sessions will be recorded. A link to each recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. Each link is live for three months after the live session.

Class Materials

• Silk floss (traditionally untwisted) or cotton floss, in two or three colours
• 12 x 12″ (30 x 30cm) heavyweight cotton or linen in a solid colour, with a clearly visible weave
• 8″ embroidery hoop
• Size 5 embroidery needles
• Embroidery scissors