FIBER COLLEGE

This class offers a realm of possibilities, and allows for full exploration with each mode of making. Students will first learn how to properly prepare different fabrics to mordant; a crucial step to ensure consistent lightfast and washfast eco prints. After this introduction, students will create their own unique eco prints and cyanotype prints.

 We will be eco printing on cotton and linen fabrics, using seasonally foraged plants, food compost, and natural dye extracts  

For our cyanoprints we’ll use seasonally foraged plants, dried/pressed plants and everyday objects that hold memories or visual intrigue to print on coated, light sensitive ,  cotton fabric. We’ll use either the power of the  sun or an indoor UV light, depending on the weather.

 Students will also be introduced to the basics of relief printing using easy-cut linoleum blocks, and will carve their own designs to be printed with fabric-safe ink on cotton.

Once all fibers are printed and dried, we will select and sew our quilt pieces together using patchwork methods and quilt batting. Students will have the option either to hand or machine sew (or both) their quilts, and will explore how to unify their printed imagery through color, shape, and experimentation. Once the quilts are sewn, we’ll use mindful stitching techniques in response to the prints on the fabrics we have put together.  

Throughout this workshop, students will be encouraged to look to  the surrounding coastal Maine landscape for inspiration, and to work intuitively by embracing mistakes and releasing perfection. These meditative processes yield unique, one-of-a-kind results, and provide opportunities to “let go” and see where your creative journey takes you. Some prior experience with sewing is beneficial, but you will get all the help you need, and all levels of experience are welcome!

Class and Retreat Fee: $980.00

Materials fee: $50.00