Beyond the Botanicals

Textile Mixed Media Art Workshop

Introductory price £65 (approx. $88*)
until 17th June, 7pm BST

(Regular price £80)

Create expressive botanical textile art inspired by nature

Discover a fresh and contemporary approach to botanical textile art by combining paint, stitch, texture and embellishment to create richly layered mixed media artwork.

In this inspiring online workshop, textile artist Ellie Hipkin guides you through the process of creating atmospheric botanical pieces using painted fabrics, free-motion embroidery, hand stitch and delicate beading.

Rather than stitching directly into the botanical forms, you’ll explore the exciting technique of working into the negative space — allowing shadowy botanical silhouettes to emerge through layers of paint, texture and stitch. The result is beautifully textured artwork with depth, movement and a contemporary feel.

Perfect for all seasons, Ellie demonstrates the techniques across two different artworks to show just how versatile and adaptable this creative process can be.

Whether you are completely new to mixed media textiles or looking to develop your own style further, this workshop encourages playful experimentation and creative freedom.

What you'll learn

Across 10 easy-to-follow videos, you’ll explore:

  • Fabric painting and expressive mark-making
  • Creating shadowy botanical forms using negative space
  • Layering paint to build depth and atmosphere
  • Free-motion embroidery techniques
  • Hand embroidery and beading
  • Building a richly layered textile composition
  • Ways to present and finish your artwork

You’ll also be encouraged to gather inspiration from nature — whether that’s a walk through the countryside, seed heads from your garden, or the botanical reference material included within the workshop.

A workshop designed to fit around your life

This online workshop is completely self-paced, so you can create whenever inspiration strikes.

You’ll receive:

  • Instant access to all workshop videos
  • Lifetime access so you can revisit anytime
  • A detailed materials video with helpful alternatives
  • Guidance for both beginners and experienced stitchers
  • Access to the Facebook group for support and encouragement
  • Direct guidance from Ellie if you have questions along the way

Take your time and enjoy the process, or immerse yourself in a creative weekend — the workshop is yours to explore at your own pace.

Materials

The materials are intentionally simple and easy to source, with lots of flexibility to use what you already have at home.

You’ll need:

  • Botanical inspiration (reference images are included)
  • Cotton canvas
  • Textile paints or acrylic paint with textile medium
  • Sewing machine with a darning foot
  • Threads for free-motion embroidery
  • Hand embroidery threads and beads
  • Everyday objects for mark-making and texture

Once you enrol, you’ll gain access to a full materials list and a video walkthrough explaining everything you need, including substitutions and recommended options.

Based in the UK?

You’ll also receive links to Ellie’s favourite online suppliers.

Outside the UK?

Ellie is always happy to help suggest alternatives available in your country.

Discover the joy of combining paint and stitch

One of the most exciting things about textile mixed media is the freedom to play, experiment and discover unexpected results.

This workshop is about more than simply following steps — it’s about exploring techniques, enjoying the process and allowing your own creative voice to emerge naturally through experimentation.

By layering paint, texture and embroidery together, you’ll create artwork that feels deeply personal, expressive and full of atmosphere.

Sometimes the most exciting creative breakthroughs happen when we let go of perfection and simply allow ourselves to play.

Meet your tutor - Ellie Hipkin

Ellie Hipkin is a textile mixed media artist based in Brighton on the south coast of England.

Inspired by the colours, contours and changing atmosphere of the South Downs and Sussex coastline, her work combines painted textiles with free-motion embroidery and hand stitch to create expressive nature-inspired pieces.

After studying fashion design and working in the industry for 12 years, Ellie returned to her first love of textile art during a difficult period in her life, finding comfort and healing through creativity. She now teaches thousands of students online, sharing the techniques and creative processes she uses within her own professional practice.

In this workshop, Ellie shares many of her favourite mixed media textile techniques in a relaxed, encouraging and inspiring way.

Sign up today

£65 introductory price*

Available until 17th June, 7pm BST

 (approx. $88*)

As soon as you enrol, you’ll receive instant lifetime access to the full workshop.

Ready to gather your materials, make yourself a cosy drink, and immerse yourself in creative play inspired by nature?

  • Disclaimer: at the time of publishing, the conversion to USD was $88 but please check your bank for the most up-to-date rate and any extra charges. 

“The classes I have purchased on Flourish have all been good very well presented and easy to follow. They are excellent value for money."

"Ellie gives heaps of inspiration and passes on so much knowledge. Very generous tutor. Very enjoyable. They are such good value for money."

"I really like learning with Ellie. She has a great teaching style and I appreciate how she breaks steps down in easy to follow bites."