Equipment:

  • Large Happy Japan Embroidery Machine

    15 needles

    Maximum embroidery area: 40 × 50 cm

  • Small Happy Japan Embroidery Machine

    7 needles

    Maximum embroidery area: 25 × 25 cm

  • Wilcom Embroidery Software

    Professional embroidery software available on dedicated studio computers

  • Studio resources:

    100+ embroidery thread colours

    Deadstock fabrics for sampling

    Backing papers & stabilisers

    Hand embroidery tools

    Fabric scissors & studio equipment

    Reference books

    Archive of embroidery samples

What is EMB LAB?

A shared embroidery workspace providing access to professional industrial embroidery equipment for independent creative practice.

Designed for designers, artists, makers and students looking to develop projects, experiment with new ideas or continue professional practice.

First Visit?

All new users must complete a Studio Induction before booking Studio Access.

Depending on your booking, inductions are available for:

  • Machine + Software

  • Machine Only

  • Software Only

Inductions cover only the equipment booked.

Group Induction

Held every Friday.

A guided introduction to the equipment you've booked, designed to prepare you for future Studio Access bookings.

Please note: Group Inductions do not include additional independent studio time.

Before You Book

  • Studio Access is self-directed.

  • Industrial embroidery experience is helpful but not essential.

  • Induction is required before independent use.

  • Please book the session appropriate for your project.

Studio Guidelines

  • Respect shared equipment and workspace.

  • Leave your workstation clean and ready for the next user.

  • Ask if you're unsure, otherwise it could be costly for you and for me!

Who is it for?

  • Independent creatives

  • Fashion & textile designers

  • Artists & illustrators

  • Costume & theatre makers

  • Students & graduates

  • Small brands & freelancers

Whether you're sampling, prototyping or producing finished work, EMB LAB provides access to professional equipment without the commitment of owning it.

What to Bring

  • Machine + Software

    Bring your artwork, ideas or existing files.

  • Machine Only

    Bring a completed .DST embroidery file ready to stitch, or your own laptop and emb software.

  • Software Only

    Bring artwork or embroidery files you'd like to create or edit.

Studio Access

Choose from:

  • Machine + Software

  • Machine Only

  • Software Only

All sessions are 3.5 hours and self-directed.

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which session is right for your project?

Get in touch before booking and we'll be happy to help.

Why EMB LAB?

When I started working in embroidery in 2016, I was lucky to have access to professional embroidery equipment after hours to help build my portfolio. Nearly ten years later, there still isn't an open-access embroidery studio in London.

EMB LAB was created to change that, making professional equipment, creative space and independent practice more accessible to designers, artists and makers.