Follow the Thread
This workshop is based on sharing my approach to my own work, where I use cloth, stitch, and collage to create mood and narrative. There will be demonstrations designed to give an insight into some of my favourite techniques, and the way I use them to achieve the desired effect. The inclusion of distressed and manipulated fabrics, paint and paper, and odd found materials, allows you to create many different qualities and textures in a surface to work on. The final layer is created with thread and stitch, which further transforms the surface. Stitching is my Super Power ! and I will show you how to use the simplest stitches in many different ways for maximum impact. You can put these skills into practice, making a series of small samples to experience how they can work to support your own personal interest. With these examples, we will make a simply constructed book, which can be useful as a future reference, or it can tell a story, if you choose to work to a theme.
Requirement List
Working on a series of small samples during this workshop will give you the opportunity to try out the techniques that I will demonstrate. I have many examples to show you that illustrate these techniques, and ideas for using them. With the samples you create, you can make a simple booklet for your future reference, as I have done with some of my own work. Or your book can tell a story, if you choose to work to a theme. If you wish to work to a theme, keep that theme in mind when selecting your materials. For the purposes of this workshop, I suggest that you work on small samples, say between 100 and 150 mm square. ( this is not a limitation, merely a suggestion ) Things to bring You will need :- All your usual ‘tools of the trade’ – scissors, pins, needles, etc. And pencil, ruler, paper. A selection of the threads that you like to use, and needles to suit your threads. I use mostly cotton perle no. 8 ( or similar weight ) along with finer threads for contrast, and for sewing on attachments. Bring a selection of fabric pieces to use in ‘collage’ – look for contrast and variety in colours, patterns, and types of fabric ... cotton, silk, synthetics, lace, etc Lightweight is best. Anything to create texture. You don’t need a lot of anything, just small pieces, but a good variety. Include some synthetic organza, ( even organza ribbon will do ) and any other lightweight synthetic fabrics Bring something that can be used as a background to build your collage on. My choices are usually calico or light cotton, but anything you happen to have in your stash will do. Maybe a few beads, buttons, found objects, embellishments of any kind, that you might like to incorporate into your work. Bring a tea light candle ( or similar ) and something to stand it on, and a box of matches. And a hand towel, or kitchen paper towels. A piece of thick cardboard, about A4 size, (eg the back of a sketch pad ) as a board to work on. There will be a charge of $25 per student to cover a bunch of items that I provide : * a pack of essential fabrics, and the card for book construction. * necessary equipment, and supplies ( all sorts of secrets ! ) for you to play with * notes on all processes If you have any questions, please be in touch. I’m happy to help.
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Intertidal
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wild nest
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Workshop Info
6 hours a day for 2 to 5 days days
Skill Level » suitable for all levels
Class Size » 12