Workshops
Transparency Detail of Confessions
THE ART OF TRANSPARENCY – 3-Day Workshop
Transparencies are fun to weave and present a wealth of opportunities for expression and design. A close relative of the tapestry, the distinguishing characteristic of the transparency is the contrast between opaque areas of pattern inlay and the sheer background cloth. Transparency techniques can be used to create expressive art pieces, or for dramatic functional items such as window coverings, table linens, and wearables.
This workshop introduces students to basic transparency weaving techniques, and to all the possibilities transparency offers. On day one, we will explore the basics -- yarns, sett, weaving techniques, creating shapes, etc. On day two, we will explore design sources and methods and students will create an original cartoon. On day three students may continue experimenting with yarns and techniques and/or begin weaving from the cartoon designed on day two.
Level: All levels.
Class Length: 3 days
Class Size: Maximum of 15
Instructor’s Fee: $700 per day plus travel, meals and lodging expenses.
Student Materials Fee: $25 (for handout, supplies, and shipping costs)
Student Supplies:
Pre-warped 4 shaft loom*
Weft yarn*
Shuttle and bobbins for weaving background fabric
Small shuttles or bobbins for weaving pattern (I recommend round, plastic, kumihimo bobbins)
Several sheets of plain paper (printer paper is fine)
Pencil
Eraser
Black Sharpie
Colored pencils (optional)
Straight pins
Scissors
Tapestry needle
Note taking supplies
*Detailed instructions for yarn choices and for warping will be sent prior to the workshop.
Classroom Needs: LCD projector and screen. Dry erase board or flip chart and markers, a couple of bobbin winders for the classk three or four tables for supplies and samples.
The Beauty and Versatility of Thick-n-Thin
THE BEAUTY AND VERSATILITY OF THICK-N-THIN – 2 or 3-Day Workshop
Thick-n-Thin, sometimes known as Diversified Plain Weave, is a wonderful and versatile weave structure. It presents a wealth of design possibilities and produces a fabric that is perfect for absolutely any use. It can be woven in fine yarns for scarves and garments, or in heavier yarns for upholstery, table linens, and even rugs. Thick-n-Thin also offers many challenges and opportunities for working with color because two sets of warp and weft yarns of different sizes interact. Students will learn how to work with this structure in planning projects and creating drafts and will weave a thick-n-thin sampler in this workshop. They will learn how to weave this structure with good technique, and will explore the effect of different yarn and color choices on the final product. Students will also learn how to use clasped weft, polychrome, and pick-up techniques, and will learn how to make a smooth color gradations and transitions. Since Thick-n-thin is a perfect structure for exploring color interactions, instructor will also lecture on color theory, concentrating on principles of optical mixing.
Level: Intermediate – Students must be able to dress a loom on their own following detailed instructions, and be comfortable with the basics of reading threading and profile drafts.
Class Length: 2-3 days
Class Size: Maximum of 15
Instructor’s Fee: $700 per day plus travel, meals and lodging expenses.
Student Materials Fee: $25 (for handout, supplies, and shipping costs)
Student Supplies: 4 or 8-shaft loom pre-warped per instructions (detailed instructions to be sent prior to the workshop); at least 2 shuttles and bobbins; scissors; graph paper; pencils and eraser; colored pencils, if desired; note taking supplies;
Equipment Needs: LCD projector and screen. Dry erase board or flip chart and markers, several bobbin winders for the class, three or four tables for supplies and samples.
BEADED FRINGES, EDGES, AND CLOSURES – 2 or 3-Day Workshop
A lovely beaded fringe or edge can turn an ordinary scarf, shawl or garment into a dramatic, unique piece – and can turn an already wonderful piece into a real showstopper. Beaded fringes and edges can also be used very effectively to embellish home décor and accessories. In this workshop, students will learn various techniques for making beaded fringes and edges and will make a sample of each technique for future reference. Students will also learn how to make a laced-edge closure for garments, embellished buttons, and a beaded toggle closure for garments or jewelry. Information on bead selection and color choice will also be provided.
Level: All
Class Length: 2 or 3 days. The 2-day version covers fringes and edges and allows enough time for students to complete the sampler in class – closures will be introduced only if time allows. The 3-day version includes the closure tehniques.
Class Size: Maximum of 18
Instructor’s Fee: $700 per day plus travel and lodging expenses.
Student Materials Fee: $40, covers handout and a kit which includes all supplies necessary to make the samples.
Student Supplies: Scissors, magnification glasses (if needed), task lamp (highly recommended, but not required), note taking materials
Equipment Needs: Dry erase board or flip chart and markers, a couple of tables for instructor’s supplies.
Classroom Needs: Students should not be crowded. Two per table, max.
Class Length: 2 or 3 days. The 2-day version covers fringes and edges and allows enough time for students to complete the sampler in class – closures will be introduced only if time allows. The 3-day version includes the closure tehniques.
Class Size: Maximum of 18
Instructor’s Fee: $700 per day plus travel and lodging expenses.
Student Materials Fee: $40, covers handout and a kit which includes all supplies necessary to make the samples.
Student Supplies: Scissors, magnification glasses (if needed), task lamp (highly recommended, but not required), note taking materials
Equipment Needs: Dry erase board or flip chart and markers, a couple of tables for instructor’s supplies.
Classroom Needs: Students should not be crowded. Two per table, max.