January 26, 2013

Summer Workshops

I am very excited to be teaching two new workshops this summer. I have had a few questions about both of them, so I thought it would be helpful to give a little more information here about what they are.
1: Exploring Color With Dye, June 2-5, part of the Surface Design Conference, San Antonio, TX
The focus of this workshop is on using Procion MX dyes on cotton. I will be teaching the percentage dye method, which is the method I use that requires using the weight of fabric to determine how much dye to use. It is a precise method that involves some math and is how I match colors and create smooth gradations of color. It sounds difficult, but after a little practice pretty much anyone can get it. Workshop participants will create an extensive book of their own dye recipes complete with swatches. The percentage dye system is a really important method for dyers to know. Learning it and becoming comfortable with the overall system would benefit anyone that is interested in dyeing fabric and the methods can be applied to any type of dye.

2. Introduction to Quilting with a Modern Aesthetic, July 21-27, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Gatlinburg, TN
This workshop is open to experienced quilters who would like to try a more Modern approach (check out the Modern Quilt Guild if you don't know what this means) and people who have never made a quilt before and want to learn how to make a modern quilt. The primary focus of the workshop will be on experimenting with different piecing techniques including "wonky" patterns based on traditional quilt blocks, improvisational piecing techniques, and some paper piecing. We will also be discussing the use of color, asymmetry, and negative space in quilts. New quilters will be completing a small quilt during the workshop and advanced quilters can choose if they want to complete a small quilt or make lots of components to take home to complete. Everyone will end up with a lot of examples to take home.

Both workshops are going to be a lot of fun!