Founded in 1924 and a part of Chanel’s Métiers d’art since 2002, Maison Lesage creates opulent embroidery requiring countless hours of work and exceptional skill. In this special family workshop, children ages 7–12 and guardian will learn about the traditional methods of Maison Lesage and work alongside Cooper Hewitt educators to create an embroidery sampler of their own.


Can I bring my group to the program?

This program is intended for families. We are unable to accommodate groups.

What is my role as the caregiver in this program?

We require that caregivers actively participate in our workshops. Cooper Hewitt educators are present to lead and facilitate a fun family friendly design project. Caregivers are responsible for helping their child with their individual projects and manage any behavioral challenges that might be disruptive to the group. Caretakers must stay with their child for the duration of the program.

Reserving Tickets

Each program day we present the same activity during two different time slots. When you select your event, reserve your tickets for the session time that works for you. You need one ticket per person, including all children. For example, if you are bringing two kids, you will need three tickets: one for you and one for each child.

The program is full. Can I still get in?

Reservations are required to guarantee participation in Design Tales, and we do not keep a waitlist. Occasionally, however, reserved participants cannot attend the event, and there may be room in the program on the day of the scheduled event. If you were unable to reserve a spot, please arrive to the event location five minutes early and speak with our educators about joining. Please keep in mind that drop-ins are only accepted if space is permitting.

What if I’m running late?

Participants may be turned away if they arrive more than 10 minutes after the start of the program, even if they have a reservation.]

About the Design by Hand series

Launched in partnership with Van Cleef & Arpels in fall 2013 with the iconic Finnish brand Marimekko, the Design by Hand series focuses on the craftsmanship, innovations, and merits of contemporary global designers. Special programs connect university students, high school students, adults, and families with design.

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