Taught by:

Elizabeth Duke

Offered:

Saturday, May 2

Sunday, May 3

Experience level: All levels

Join Elizabeth for a delicious day of mindful stitching as we create a folded cloth book. Inspired by the resourcefulness and artful simplicity of the Kantha tradition, we will be stitching together narrow strips of contrasting fabrics.

One of the reasons that Kantha is a point of inspiration for this class is that it is a centuries old technique that layers recycled fabric with decorative stitches. Most often the stitches used are in parallel lines but it is not uncommon to see Kantha textiles created with quite intricate stitch patterns, as well.

Once again, we are reminded of how eco-friendly (long before such an expression even existed) traditional techniques are by their very nature; beautiful, but also they repurpose scraps and worn out clothing that might have otherwise been tossed away.

Yes— this workshop is another terrific opportunity to dive into your stash of fabrics and resurrect some favorite textiles.

 

Don’t worry if your choices seem to clash, the beauty of this technique supports and enhances unusual juxtaposition. Giving new life to old fabric—or leftover scraps from a beloved project that you didn’t want to throw away—is a fabulous approach to our making and something we trust this class will nurture and encourage in your home studio.

This process-oriented class is all about following your intuitive prompts as you choose color combinations, patterns and stitches to create a folded cloth book that is uniquely yours.

The base Elizabeth has created for this workshop is a flannel-lined canvas folded cloth book. The beauty of this book’s design is that it allows you easy access and numerous opportunities to stitch the chapters and daydreams of your story on its different sides.

And, as if that wasn’t already enough to get your threaded needle going, Elizabeth will bring vintage wooden blocks as an offering to those students wishing to print directly onto their fabric.

Of course, that will open even more paths to explore —perhaps you will choose to stitch directly into the block print images, and add embellishment to a flower or leaf, etc.

The class will begin with a brief meditation followed by journaling and a bit of collaging to center and open our creative selves. Elizabeth will demonstrate her favorite hand stitching techniques to provide inspiration and, she will be right along side you for guidance as you develop your vision.

Be ready for rich, sweet, playful stitching that will continue on long after the weekend is over.

Kit fee: 35 USD

Materials:

Your kit includes everything you need:
Cloth Book
Curated fabric charm pack plus loads of extra stitchy goodies
Journal, pen and pencil
Pins, Needles
Threads

(OPTIONAL) Students may want to bring:
A task or neck light
Reading glasses for close work
Attendees are welcome to bring bits of fabric especially of old/thrifted clothing/linens to add to
their books