Our story
Our studio is based in the cow shed, one of a series of converted farm buildings at Culverton Farm. We share the site with the Repair Shop, Wood working workshops and the resident chickens and roosters in the communal garden. Pigeons skit around the C18 barn with its crumbling facade and the corrugated iron roof over the original thatch.
This area of Buckinghamshire has historically been linked to the crafts industry. Wood turners, bodgers and furniture makers, lace and needle makers. As you travel around the hills and valleys of the county, wardrobe lane and needle makers house are evidence of this past craft lineage. Our workshops reflect this rich cultural history and aim to keep people connected to these skillfull craft traditions.
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Black Swans Studio
We work from a shared art and design space located in what was the cow shed of a beautiful C18 barn on Culverton Farm near Princes Risborough, at the foot of the Chiltern hills.
The workshops founded by Lisa Vaughan and Karina Thomas play a key part in the spirit of Black Swans Studios. Offering a range of textile and craft courses we encourage connections, creativity and learning with a chance to slow down, laugh, reflect and nourish the soul in an environmentally sustainable way.
Lisa and Karina met whilst studying textiles at the Royal College of Art. They both set up their own design practices in London after graduating whilst also both teaching at UK universities. They bring this expertise to the exciting workshops on offer at Black Swans Studios.
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Karina Thomas
Karina Thomas MA(RCA) studied constructed textiles at The Royal College of Art she specializes in knitted and woven textiles for interiors. Karina has taught at several UK universities including Bucks New Uni where she was a Senior Lecturer for 10 years and The Royal College of Art.
Past clients include;
Tom Dixon, The British Embassy, Ford, Arjo Wiggins, Harrods, salt and Clementine Blakemore Architects.
Karina also works with charities promoting sustainability and fair wages through upcycling and Fairtrade product sales.
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Lisa Vaughan
Lisa Vaughan MA(RCA) established her embroidery studio with a setting up grant from the Crafts Council after graduating from the Royal College of Art. She specialises in design and hand made embroidered products for interiors.
Past clients include;
Designers Guild, Barneys NY, LA & Japan, Christopher Farr, Takashimaya, Kate Spade, ABC Carpets and Home, Harrods, Graham and Green, Couverture, Habitat & Vogue.
She is a member of Contemporary Applied Arts.
Upcoming events
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Stitch One
16/05 10-1PM
A contemporary stitch workshop introducing you to a playful exploration of hand embroidery.
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Macrame
30/05 6-9.30PM
Master macrame knotting techniques to to make your own decorative Star wall hanging.
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Weave One
11/06 10-2PM
Enjoy the process of learning to weave on a tapestry loom. Explore colours and textures and relax in the creative hub of this class.