This workshop explores a variety
of simple printing techniques which produce exciting results with a
minimum of expense and equipment. Colour mixing will be explained, and
students will leave the workshop with samples, a range of colour
co-ordinated hand printed fabric, and the ability to work independently
on future
projects.
Maximum 20 - 25 students, depending upon space All levels
Asian patchwork and quilting
traditions
1 or 2
days
Be inspired by handling and studying examples of traditional Asian
patchwork and quilting fro Wendy's collection. These will be used as
inspiration for small samplers exploring a rich variety of patterns and
processes, generating ideas for larger works. Maximum 20
students All levels
Playing with hand
stitch
1 or 2 days
This is a relaxed but stimulating workshop exploring the endless
possibilities of simple hand stitch. The same stitches which are used to
quilt two or more layers of fabric together can also paly a prominent
part in the design of your quilt. Even the simple running stitch
can be an exciting mark-making tool, creating fantastic visual
effects. A series of small samplers will be worked, generating
ideas and
possibilities.
Maximum 20 students All levels
New from old - working with with recycled
fabrics
1 or 2 days
Explore the tradition of making-do, as you use recycled fabrics to
design and create a small tablemat or wall hanging. This workshop
doesn't focus on teaching sewing skills, but on how to think creatively,
to design and make an object of beauty from materials which might by
themselves be considered to be of little worth. Fabrics which might
otherwise be discarded, considered to be of no use due to holes, patches
or darns, can be used creatively to enhance the design. You will explore
the best ways to use various fabrics and consider possible design
arrangements. By the end of the workshop you will be well on the
way to completing your chosen
project.
Maximum 20 students All levels
Designing blocks using feature fabrics
1 or 2 days
Unusual fabrics such as novelty prints or large floral prints can
add excitement to your quilts, but must be used carefully. The secret is
to ensure they blend comfortably into their surroundings whist still
remaining a feature. Learn to design quilt blocks using randomly shaped
‘feature’ fabric pieces surrounded by more subdued background
fabrics, a development of Wendy’s ‘Crazy Strips’ technique. Whilst
resembling crazy patchwork, the block can be pieced by hand or machine
without the use of a base fabric. You will commence by designing on
paper, learning how to make the best use of the feature fabric and how
to design a block which can be easily pieced. After that you will
progress to developing and cutting one or more fabric blocks ready for
piecing.
Maximum 16 students All levels
Crazy
Strips
1 day
This simple strip piecing technique looks similar to crazy
patchwork, but doesn't need to be sewn to a base fabric. It is a
versatile method with both traditional and contemporary applications.
The workshop covers construction, colour and fabric choice and
arrangement. Students will learn to make both strips and
blocks.
Maximum 16 students All levels
Not So
Crazy!
2 or 3 days
Create a pieced crazy patchwork effect which needs neither templates
nor foundation fabric. This simple technique combines randomly shaped
pieces of feature fabric with wedge-shaped strips, and offers endless
possibilities, from landscapes to clothing. Students will learn the
basic construction technique, and how to adapt it to either traditional
or contemporary applications. Maximum 16 students All levels
Print, layer and stitch - thematic
explorations
2 to 5
days
Take these three simple processes, combine them, and you have the
potential for a vast range of self-expression. With a sense of
adventure, and even the most basic of equipment, anything is
possible. In this class, a variety of simple printing processes
will be combined with layering and stitching to create a series of small
exploratory pieces (leading to larger work in the longer workshops).
Each participant will work with imager which reflects a theme relevant
to their individual interests or concerns.
Maximum 16 students All levels
Design workshop
2 to 5 days
Participants will explore a number of design possibilities based on
an image of their choice. A series of exercises exploring the use of
line, shape, colour, texture and composition will be used to assist in
the development of ideas. Consideration will be given to how these ideas
can be effectively translated into different media and techniques. The
emphasis will be on the development of personal
expression.
Maximum 16 students All levels
Masterclass
1 day
A class for serious quiltmakers (or those working in other textile
fields) who wish to focus on developing their potential. In order to
maximise use of the time available, students will be required to
complete two set tasks at home prior to the masterclass. They will be
expected to prepare a written artist’s statement, which will form part
of a brief presentation they will each give about their work. They will
also be required to complete a design exercise which will form the basis
of a class critique session. There will be the opportunity for general
discussion and positive feedback which should prove beneficial to all
participants.
Note: Maximum 10 students Intermediate (not suitable for
symposium
situations)
Professional practice
1 day
This workshop is packed with useful information and hints picked up
whilst establishing a successful career in quiltmaking. Topics covered
include preparing CV’s and portfolios, photographing your own quilts
for professional results, exhibiting your work, and dealing with
publicity and business aspects.
