Ellie facilitates art in primary schools. She was recently awarded funding from Tipperary County Council under the Artist in Primary School Scheme 2025 to continue this work. Her workshops focus on textile art, and children learn new skills and techniques such as transferring designs onto fabric, embroidery and beading. Ellie encourages children to experiment with scrap fabrics to highlight how we can upcycle and transform everyday materials into meaningful artwork. This upcycling process teaches the importance of sustainability and helps children recognise the value of reusing materials, particularly in relation to fast fashion.
Image 1: Final outputs from 5th class students. They learned to master a variety of embroidery stitches, including the satin, stem and chain stitch. The pupils’ excitement extended beyond the classroom, as many expressed interest in embroidering at home.
Image 2 (left): Snowflake design on canvas, on an embroidery hoop. This work was created by a 2nd class student.
Image 3 (right): Embroidered space-inspired work by a 1st class student, using black linen and ‘mermaid’ organza. Wool was used to depict the sun.
Ellie emphasises the process rather than the final output and the aesthetic quality of the work produced. With that being said, by the end of her workshops, she aims for her students to have completed a textile work, which they can bring home and hang on their wall. Embroidery hoops serve as frames for the finished pieces. The intricacy of the works varies per age and ability.
Her workshops help develop children's skills, including technical sewing skills, fine motor skills, confidence, patience, self-assurance and self-discovery.
Visit Ellie’s YouTube channel for videos of previous school projects.
View Ellie’s CV
Get in touch!
For workshop queries and pricing, email info@elliecullen.com.