HUE KNEW?
- Danielle Clough
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
A playful journey of colour and thread in Portugal! 24 April - 30 April 2026 🌈
I hosted my first workshop in 2016. The class was held in a tattoo shop, and the tables were massage beds. Kits were given in brown bags. I remember it so clearly. I knew I wanted to impart knowledge and share my love of thread, but I had no experience in teaching. The class went well and despite most of it being me just saying "follow your heart" and 'I dont know, just gooi', the outcomes were impressive. Since that day, things have improved somewhat. I've learnt how to articulate my techniques and colour strategies. Kits are now more lavish and customised for each workshop. Since 2016, I have taught beginner classes (Sew Far Sew Good), abstract embroidery (String Theory), and how to stitch on alternative surfaces (A Strange Place for a Stitch) in South Africa, Australia, Kuwait, the US and Canada. Every class and every attendant has such a special place in my heart.
This thread world is so magical. The community, the healing, the creativity and the kindness that comes with stitching together is like nothing I've experienced. Because of this, I pour everything I can into my classes. I try to teach one class in SA a year, as well as one overseas that has variation. From the bespoke kits to altering some exercises, I want to give as much to the classes as I get out of them.
That's what makes this next one EPIC and so exciting for me! I will be teaching in Portugal in collaboration with O House. This one is a workshop retreat in the coastal town of Ericeira. It's a 5-day workshop exploring materials, colour and your own creative voice. We will be making memories and learning how to stitch them with chromatic whimsy.
HIGHLIGHTS:
🧵 Expert Embroidery Instruction - Elevate your embroidery with the help of Danielle’s immersive and informative workshops. Not only will Danielle share insider tips and tricks for seamless colourwork and thread blending, but she will also teach you how to take a photograph and translate it into an embroidery pattern. With these skills, you will be able to design your own unique patterns based on the world around you.
🧘♀️ Guided Wellness Sessions - Start each day with a wellness session designed to wake up your body, mind, and soul through intentional movement and awareness. Whether it be a rejuvenating yoga flow, guided meditation, or relaxing sound bath, this is your time to let go of life’s daily stressors and embrace the present moment.
🏰 Fantastical Palaces and Historic Towns - Let the magic wash over you as you explore Sintra’s cobblestone streets and beautiful sites. You will tour the Monserrate Palace’s stunning grounds and hallways, connecting with Portugal’s rich culture and history as you go. You are sure to find inspiration (and perhaps an idea for a pattern design!) in every nook and cranny.
🌊 Stunning Coastlines and Nature Walks - Embark on an energising creative reset amidst the rugged beauty of Portugal’s coastal walking trails. Away from the hustle and bustle, your imagination will run wild, leaving you feeling inspired and ready to create. Whether on the Guided Nature Walk or personal exploration, you will get acquainted with awe-inspiring natural beauty.
🍷 Local Gastronomy and Wine Tasting - Enjoy authentic Portuguese dishes, explore local wines at a beautiful vineyard, and savour the flavours of the region. Treat yourself - you deserve it.
👋 Community - Connect with a group of like-minded artists. Learn, explore, and relax together as you immerse yourself in a shared passion in a peaceful and picturesque location.