textile tantrums
This workshop is based on sharing my approach to my own work. I use mixed media collage and hand stitching to focus on the intimate detail of my stories.
This is an opportunity to extend your imagination and visual vocabulary, and to communicate an individual narrative quality in your work.
Lesson Plan
There will be demonstrations and exercises designed to give an insight into my favourite techniques, and the way I use them to achieve the desired effect. We will play with some unorthodox ways to use fabric and stitch, including rip, melt, and burn; stain, mark, and print; layer, conceal, and reveal.
Also, there will be a little digging and delving, encouraging you to find the links and associations with your materials.
My basic plan for the workshop is that you will work on a series of small piece, and incorporate different techniques as we try them out.
Requirement List
calico or cotton, washed and ironed as backing to work on. a metre will be plenty. if you like to work on flannelette, that’s fine as an alternative.
small amounts of synthetic organza
some bits of light weight silk ( paj or habotai ) white or pale colours are best
a bunch of small fabric pieces for collage. go for contrast and variety in colour, patterned / plain / hand dyed; transparent; textured; mostly light weight.
little bits of lace, ribbon, trims
found objects: beads, buttons, feathers, leaves, shells, bits of old earrings, any odd things you collect.
any threads you use for hand stitching; ( I use mostly Cotton Perle No. 8 or similar weight ) include some sewing machine threads
needles to suit your threads.
your usual tools of trade: scissors, dressmaking pins, etc.
drawing paper or work book, and pencils.
a few photocopies ( not inkjet) of small images, or photos……..anything you like. ( these are for transfer printing and need to be high contrast )
an old teaspoon. a packet of incense sticks, matches, and a tealight candle
small samples and / or folio of your work
if you keep a visual diary or journal, bring that.
You might like to bring along a source of inspiration, something that is evocative for you, or your ideas on a current theme.
And most important of all, an open mind and a sense of humour !
There will be a small charge to cover the stuff I provide at the workshop …. a set of notes, use of silks, vliesofix, gilding foils, etc.
optional extras that others have found useful in this workshop : pellon, sellotape,
Venue Requirements
The main requirements for a workshop venue are: Ample table space for all participants and appropriate seating.
An extra two tables for me and my stuff.
Access to water, but not necessarily a sink in the room.
Good lighting. Power points.
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molly
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work by Christine Grevis James at Geelong forum 2009
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work by Adrienne Cobby at Orange Forum 2011
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work by Alison Cox at Orange forum 2011
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work by Cheryl Kennedy at Geelong forum 2009
 by Harmina Balch. class work at Geelong fibre forum'))
tidal drift (detail) by Harmina Balch. class work at Geelong fibre forum
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work by Bhajan Atwal at Orange forum 2011
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work by Rhonnie at Wanganui summer school
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work by Christa Sanders at Orange forum 2011
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work by Jan Scudamore at Orange Forum 2011
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work by Jenny Dowde at Orange forum 2011
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work by Jude Whaites at Orange forum 2011
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work by Lynda Peters at Orange forum 2011
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work by Maggie Showell at Orange forum 2011
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work by Natalie Sanders at Orange forum 2011
Workshop Info
6 hours a day for anything from 3 to 6 days
Skill Level » suitable for all levels
Class Size » 12
Cost » $50 per teaching hour , plus travel expenses and accommodation