Wild Pots

Over the last few years, I have discovered a liking for working with 3 dimensional objects. The latest in this line, are these little nest-like pots. The surfaces are deeply textural, encrusted with distressed and manipulated fabrics, and embellished with stitch. I have experimented with various methods of construction, and now I’m satisfied with their size and form. My series is entitled ‘Elemental’, as to me, they represent the elements of my environment … sea, sky, bush and earth. Join me in this workshop and make your own version of the pot, using colour, texture and stitch to suit your personal sense of design. Check out images on Instagram, they give a better idea.

Requirement List

You will need all your usual ‘Tools of the Trade’, including scissors, pins, needles, threads Also paper, pencil, paper scissors, ruler ( to cut patterns ) Backing fabric to build the work on to. Calico or old cotton is what I use, plus a thin layer of batting of some sort. Anything will do, I use whatever I have on hand. A bunch of different fabrics to use in your surface collage – look for contrast and variety in patterns, types of fabric, texture. Nothing too heavy. You only need small bits and pieces, the scraps and left overs. Be sure to include some light weight synthetic stuff, including synthetic organza, to distress for texture. I suggest you stick to a restricted colour palette, say 2 main colour bases, with a splash of contrast, as this will make it easier to achieve a co-ordinated look in your work. Vliesofix ( a bonding web ) you don’t need much, maybe ¼ metre The threads you like to use, and needles to suit your threads. I use mostly cotton perle no 8, plus finer threads for contrast, and for sewing on attachments. Maybe bring a few beads that you could incorporate into your work. Bring a tealight candle, a small jar or something stand that in, and a box of matches. I have found an empty jam jar is useful at various stages of pot building. My one is Rose’s Marmalade, it curves towards the base, which is the shape I want. My favourite is their lime marmalade ! You may have to indulge, if you want this shaping for your pot. But any ordinary jar of similar size will do. I will provide the kind of stiffener I use for the base of the pot, and I will bring extra organza, and bits and pieces, so don’t worry if you don’t have stuff. There will be a small cost for these supplies. Check out my Instagram : ailiesnow for images of the pots I have made.

Wild Pots

Requirement List

Workshop Info