Workshop teacher: Dario Tubiana
Whoever said embroidery is all about flowers—well, it might’ve been me.
I’ve always loved botanical embroidery, but creative tastes evolve, and sometimes you just need to make something fun and unexpected. That’s where this class comes in. With tufting becoming a trend in textiles, I started wondering how to bring that fluffy, textured look to knitwear.
That’s when I revisited the Victorian Tufting Stitch—a playful, versatile technique that creates soft, three-dimensional effects.
In this class, I’ll teach you how to work the stitch using one to three colors and how to combine it with other stitches for extra texture.
It’s a relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop designed to sparkcreativity and joy, complete with a detailed handout covering the stitch history, instructions, and pattern ideas.
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Victorian tufting embroidery
Dario Tubiana Dario Tubiana
Dario Tubiana is an Italian knitwear designer based between Amsterdam and Rome, known for work that bridges traditional and contemporary knitting with a strong passion for handcraft.
He is trained in Creative Knitwear Design from the Accademia di Costume e Moda in Rome and has developed his own capsule collections. Dario has taught workshops at major knitting festivals across Europe, and we are proud to welcome him as a course instructor at Bergen Knit Fest 2026.
Practical information
When?
Friday September 25th: 12:15-15:15. The workshop is a part of Bergen Strikkefestival.
You will need to buy ticket for the workshop.
Homework
Before class, please knit a square swatch in Stockinette stitch using DK-weight yarn. The square should measure approximately 22 cm on each side. Make sure to knit it to the correct size, as it will need to be framed in an embroidery hoop and should be slightly larger than the hoop’s circumference. I recommend bringing a 20 cm embroidery hoop. Don’t forget to iron the swatch, as it will make the embroidery process easier.
Alternative to the swatch: if you don’t have time to knit one, or simply prefer not to, you can bring an old stockinette garment you no longer wear. It can be hand-knitted or store-bought, as long as it has a smooth surface and fits into an embroidery hoop. Make sure the fabric isn’t too thick, so stitching stays comfortable and visible. Alternatively, you may bring a piece of white woven fabric such as linen or cotton, with a firm and even weave — perfect for practicing the technique if you’re not working directly on knitwear.
Supplies for Class
- DK or Worsted weight yarn - this is a great chance to use what’s already in your stash
- The knitted swatch or one of the alternative materials mentioned above
- Embroidery needles for wool (sharp-tipped, large eye, sized for your yarn — do not use a tapestry needle)
- Embroidery hoop (it must be smaller than the swatch)
- Small scissors
- Black fine-point marker pen to trace the embroidery
- Water-soluble tracing paper (also available as self-adhesive stabilizer)
- Printed pattern guide included in the handout
- Notebook and pen or pencil for notes.