Calendar of upcoming events.
Click on the Image for more Info
Spring Break
Creativity has seasons.
This spring I’m stepping into the mountains for a reset —
turning soil, planting seeds, and letting nature do its quiet work.
Aya Fiber Studio closed March 30 – April 11. 🌱
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Surface Design w Betty Busby
Welcome to my new techniques class!
We’ll cover multiple new ways of expressing ourselves on fabric.
Transfer printing: we’ll use non-toxic dye (provided by me) to transfer designs from paper to synthetic materials, using heat.
It’s a very different way of creating designs, as compositions can be created on dry paper with collage techniques.
A huge variety of synthetic materials can be used, including sheers.
Also, botanicals can be used with fantastic results, matching or exceeding results achieved through eco printing. Post production: learn how to use various media such as gel pens, markers, and colored pencils, to enhance your stitching after quilting.
Watercolor techniques on fabric: We’ll use fabric paints on cotton to achieve similar effects of watercolor paint on paper, only it is permanent. These can make a great base for hand or machine stitching.
DYE PAINT YOUR IMAGES / BRING THEM TO LIFE WITH QUILTING with Hollis Chatelain
In this workshop, you will first learn how to paint images with Procion dyes on cotton. Learning to control the dyes will be emphasized. Among other things, we will cover blending, layering, special effects and painting without bleeding. All of these techniques can be used to create images as complex as portraits or as simple as a line on a scarf. Each student is asked to bring two or three 18"x 20" designs or drawings that they will transfer onto cloth and then paint. These drawings can be fruits or rounded objects, still life, animals, faces, or anything you would like to paint. Any image can be used as long as it has been made into an 18" X 20" black and white line drawing. It would also help to have an example or an idea of your color choices. In the second part of the workshop, we will explore new ideas about how to use quilting to enhance the look of your painted cloth. The main objective is to use quilting lines to create depth, texture, tension, or shadowing which will give a new dimension to your quilt. Lines can be inspired by an endless variety of things (nature, architecture, technology, etc.) to add visual interest and reinforce your overall design. Even straight lines can become a design in themselves. You will be working with the images you have painted during the first part of the workshop. This workshop is based on free-motion machine quilting but the design techniques can be adapted to hand quilting. Experience in one or the other is required.
INTRO TO ECO-PRINT
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Come experience the magic that happens when Eco-Printing.
Eco Printing is a process of using plants to dye and print on fiber using direct contact printing methods
During our workshop’s; participants will explore the alchemy of water, plant materials, heat, and metal and finish the class with beautiful prints on protein fibers.
In these workshop's we will be creating samples and experimenting with different protein fibers ( silk, wool). I will show you processes that have worked well for me and the equipment and bundling techniques that are used.
Although students are asked to bring a variety of leaves to class, we will also forage to identify and collect plants for printing. Emphasis will be placed on safety, best practice procedures, environmental factors and plant characteristics.
The final project will be printing on a 14” x 72” silk scarf.
This is a relaxed, fun-filled class so come prepared for the wonderful smells that can only come from eucalyptus, and other natural leaves and be open to the magic
The Intro 1-Day workshop will cover:
The materials and equipment needed for eco-printing
Fabric selections & prep (please pre scour fabrics prior to class)
Choosing the right plants for dyeing and understanding the role tannin plays
Understanding the print process on protein fibers ( we will be using protein fibers only in this workshop, for use of cellulose fibers- please check out the 3 day class)
Preparing the leaves for contact printing
Different techniques for laying out your leaves
Methods of rolling, tying and cooking bundles
https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/c/641eff2b2effb6344884886e
4 Day Botanical Print Workshop
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Eco Printing is a process of using plants to dye and print on fiber through contact printing methods. Botanical Printing is the additional of using natural dyes for added color.
During our workshop’s; participants will explore the alchemy of water, plant materials, heat, and metal and finish the class with beautiful prints on natural fiber fabrics.
In these workshop's we will be creating samples and experimenting with different fibers. We will be using natural plant materials gathered near my Florida home or brought with you from your garden. I will show you processes that have worked well for me and the equipment and bundling techniques that are used.
Be prepared for the wonderful smells that can only come from eucalyptus, and other natural leaves and be open to the magic
The 4-Day workshop will cover:
THE MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR ECO-PRINTING
FABRIC SELECTIONS & PREP (PLEASE PRE SCOUR FABRICS PRIOR TO CLASS)
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR DYEING AND UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE TANNIN PLAYS
UNDERSTANDING THE PRINT PROCESS ON BOTH PROTEIN & CELLULOSE FIBERS
MORDANTING COTTON & LINEN FIBERS: we will discuss methods of mordanting cellulose fabrics and mordant all fabrics on day 1
DIFFERENT METHODS OF PREPARING THE LEAVES FOR CONTACT PRINTING
DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES FOR LAYING OUT YOUR LEAVES
METHODS OF ROLLING, TYING AND COOKING BUNDLES
BUNDLING OVER SIZED FIBER AND CLOTHING
USING DYE BLANKETS TO GET BACKGROUND COLOR
INDIGO AND ECO PRINT
Class Time: 9:00 am-4:00pm
Web Link: https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/c/6398aaaa37c937a7d807ee72
Shibori : Cloth, Lineage and Indigo Discipline with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors
Heritage-Based Study in Indigo & Japanese Textile Arts- hosted by the Aya Fiber Studio
Aizome Studio — Where cloth, process, and indigo become a practice.
Over the years, many of you have asked to go deeper — beyond introductory techniques, beyond surface results — into the true structure and discipline behind traditional Japanese textile arts.
The Aizome Studio Signature Series was created in response to that call.
This is not trend-based craft.
This is intentional study.
Each workshop in the series will focus on a single heritage technique, explored with structure, patience, and technical clarity. We will work with authentic materials, traditional tools, and living indigo vats — honoring the lineage of the craft while building real mastery.
While these workshops are presented under Aizome Studio, they will continue to be hosted and marketed through Aya Fiber Studio — the creative home that has made this deeper study possible.
Whether you are refining advanced skills or stepping into structured study for the first time, you are welcome here. Discipline builds confidence. And depth is accessible to anyone willing to slow down and learn.
This is the beginning of a new chapter.
We are not just making cloth.
We are building practice. 💙
https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/event/697b3d4136890519ab1201c0
Komebukuro: Crafting a Cultural Keepsake
Create a beautiful and functional komebukuro—a traditional Japanese rice bag—using fabrics that hold personal meaning or aesthetic appeal. These charming drawstring bags were originally used to carry offerings of rice to temples, and today they make lovely gift bags, project pouches, or keepsake carriers.
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn how to piece, stitch, and construct your own fully lined rice bag using a simple boxed-base method. We'll cover design layout, fabric pairing, basic construction, and finishing techniques. You'll leave with a completed bag and the skills to make many more.
Stuart Studio Closing for Season
The Stuart Studio is closing May 19, 2026 - We are headed to NC for the summer where I have several workshops and a retreat scheduled.
for a list of my summer workshops visit:
We will be closing at 3:00 PM. I will be returning to Stuart and reopening the Studio in October 2026 !
Shibori : Cloth, Lineage and Indigo Discipline with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors
Heritage-Based Study in Indigo & Japanese Textile Arts
Over the years, many of you have asked to go deeper — beyond introductory techniques, beyond surface results — into the true structure and discipline behind traditional Japanese textile arts.
The Aizome Studio Mastery Series was created in response to that call.
This is not trend-based craft.
This is intentional study.
Each workshop in the series will focus on a single heritage technique, explored with structure, patience, and technical clarity. We will work with authentic materials, traditional tools, and living indigo vats — honoring the lineage of the craft while building real mastery.
While these workshops are presented under Aizome Studio, they will continue to be hosted and marketed through Aya Fiber Studio — the creative home that has made this deeper study possible.
Whether you are refining advanced skills or stepping into structured study for the first time, you are welcome here. Discipline builds confidence. And depth is accessible to anyone willing to slow down and learn.
This is the beginning of a new chapter.
We are not just making cloth.
We are building practice. 💙
Layered Beauty: Mastering Katagami and Katazome Madeline Island Workshop
Suzanne Connors will teaching at the Madeline Island School of Arts; July 13-17, 2026
Step into the timeless world of Japanese surface design through this immersive hands-on workshop dedicated to the elegant art of Katazome — Japanese paste-resist dyeing — and Katagami, the intricate hand-cut stencils used to create it.
Appalachian Center of Craft Workshop
The mission of the Appalachian Center for Craft is to promote excellence in American craft by teaching both tradition and innovation in professional studio craft, and fostering access to the highest quality craft education, craft artists, craft works and events in a community arts context.
Katazome - Sanborn Mills
Suzanne Connors will be teaching at Sanborn Mills Farm; August 12-17, 2026
Shibori : Cloth, Lineage and Indigo Discipline with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors
Heritage-Based Study in Indigo & Japanese Textile Arts
Over the years, many of you have asked to go deeper — beyond introductory techniques, beyond surface results — into the true structure and discipline behind traditional Japanese textile arts.
The Aizome Studio Signature Series was created in response to that call.
This is not trend-based craft.
This is intentional study.
Each workshop in the series will focus on a single heritage technique, explored with structure, patience, and technical clarity. We will work with authentic materials, traditional tools, and living indigo vats — honoring the lineage of the craft while building real mastery.
While these workshops are presented under Aizome Studio, they will continue to be hosted and marketed through Aya Fiber Studio — the creative home that has made this deeper study possible.
Whether you are refining advanced skills or stepping into structured study for the first time, you are welcome here. Discipline builds confidence. And depth is accessible to anyone willing to slow down and learn.
This is the beginning of a new chapter.
We are not just making cloth.
We are building practice. 💙
Blue in the Mountains Fall Retreat
🍂 Blue in the Mountains: A Fall Fiber Retreat 🍂
This year’s 2026 fall creative retreat will be held at Wagonmaster Ranch Resort, nestled halfway between Murphy, North Carolina and Blue Ridge, Georgia—right in the heart of peak fall color. It’s the perfect setting to slow down, gather with your creative tribe, and let the season shape the work.
The retreat will focus on eco-printing, printing on leather, indigo, shibori, and hand stitching, with plenty of spacious time for making, exploring, and simply being. Alongside studio time, we’ll enjoy the pleasures of fall in the mountains—apple picking, baking, hiking, local wineries, festivals, and leaf viewing, all thoughtfully woven around your favorite fiber arts.
Think crisp air, changing leaves, hands stained blue, quiet mornings in the studio, and evenings spent in good company.
✨ Save your spot and follow along as plans unfold:
🔗https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/event/697e2841ae77b6845d719bc3
I can’t wait to share more soon 🍁
INTRO TO ECO-PRINT
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Come experience the magic that happens when Eco-Printing.
Eco Printing is a process of using plants to dye and print on fiber using direct contact printing methods
During our workshop’s; participants will explore the alchemy of water, plant materials, heat, and metal and finish the class with beautiful prints on protein fibers.
In these workshop's we will be creating samples and experimenting with different protein fibers ( silk, wool). I will show you processes that have worked well for me and the equipment and bundling techniques that are used.
Although students are asked to bring a variety of leaves to class, we will also forage to identify and collect plants for printing. Emphasis will be placed on safety, best practice procedures, environmental factors and plant characteristics.
The final project will be printing on a 14” x 72” silk scarf.
This is a relaxed, fun-filled class so come prepared for the wonderful smells that can only come from eucalyptus, and other natural leaves and be open to the magic
The Intro 1-Day workshop will cover:
The materials and equipment needed for eco-printing
Fabric selections & prep (please pre scour fabrics prior to class)
Choosing the right plants for dyeing and understanding the role tannin plays
Understanding the print process on protein fibers ( we will be using protein fibers only in this workshop, for use of cellulose fibers- please check out the 3 day class)
Preparing the leaves for contact printing
Different techniques for laying out your leaves
Methods of rolling, tying and cooking bundles
https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/c/641eff2b2effb6344884886e
4 Day Botanical Print Workshop
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Eco Printing is a process of using plants to dye and print on fiber through contact printing methods. Botanical Printing is the additional of using natural dyes for added color.
During our workshop’s; participants will explore the alchemy of water, plant materials, heat, and metal and finish the class with beautiful prints on natural fiber fabrics.
In these workshop's we will be creating samples and experimenting with different fibers. We will be using natural plant materials gathered near my Florida home or brought with you from your garden. I will show you processes that have worked well for me and the equipment and bundling techniques that are used.
Be prepared for the wonderful smells that can only come from eucalyptus, and other natural leaves and be open to the magic
The 4-Day workshop will cover:
THE MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT NEEDED FOR ECO-PRINTING
FABRIC SELECTIONS & PREP (PLEASE PRE SCOUR FABRICS PRIOR TO CLASS)
CHOOSING THE RIGHT PLANTS FOR DYEING AND UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE TANNIN PLAYS
UNDERSTANDING THE PRINT PROCESS ON BOTH PROTEIN & CELLULOSE FIBERS
MORDANTING COTTON & LINEN FIBERS: we will discuss methods of mordanting cellulose fabrics and mordant all fabrics on day 1
DIFFERENT METHODS OF PREPARING THE LEAVES FOR CONTACT PRINTING
DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES FOR LAYING OUT YOUR LEAVES
METHODS OF ROLLING, TYING AND COOKING BUNDLES
BUNDLING OVER SIZED FIBER AND CLOTHING
USING DYE BLANKETS TO GET BACKGROUND COLOR
INDIGO AND ECO PRINT
Class Time: 9:00 am-4:00pm
Web Link: https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/c/6398aaaa37c937a7d807ee72
Indigo & Cloth: A One Day Shibori Experience
Explore the art of shibori through folding, binding, and indigo dyeing.
Create patterned cloth while learning foundational resist techniques in a one-day immersive workshop.
Morakami
Registration Opens 8/1/2026
https://morikami.org/event/shibori-indigo-workshop/
Joomchi: Contemporary Expressions in Korean Paper with Jiyoung Chung
A five-day creative retreat exploring the Korean art of handmade paper and transformation
Experience the expressive possibilities of Joomchi, the ancient Korean art of felting and fusing handmade paper by hand. Under the guidance of renowned artist Jiyoung Chung, you’ll discover how this centuries-old process transforms delicate sheets of hanji into strong, textured, and sculptural works of art.
Through rolling, rubbing, and layering, you’ll learn how to manipulate paper until it becomes soft, cloth-like, and full of character — capable of standing alone as a sculptural form or merging beautifully with fiber, stitch, or collage.
This retreat invites both experimentation and reflection. You’ll explore the rhythm of process, the beauty of imperfection, and the tactile joy of making something by hand that feels both ancient and new.
Mindful Stitching with Judy Coates Perez
This workshop is more than just a creative class; it’s an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and your artistic spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned stitcher or a beginner, this mindful stitching process encourages you to explore your creativity in a relaxed, judgment-free space. You’ll leave with not only new skills but also a renewed sense of artistic freedom and inner calm and a beautiful piece of stitched linen.
Morakami
Registration Opens 8/1/2026
https://morikami.org/event/shibori-indigo-workshop/
Shibori : Cloth, Lineage and Indigo Discipline with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors
Where cloth, process, and indigo become a practice.
Aizome Studio is Suzanne Connors’ dedicated body of work in traditional Japanese textile arts—offering deeper study in shibori, katazome, indigo, and heritage-based cloth practices.
Hosted at Aya Fiber Studio in Stuart, Florida, these workshops are designed for those seeking more than a surface introduction. Through small-group intensives, immersive retreats, and thoughtful, process-oriented teaching, Aizome Studio invites students into a slower rhythm of making—one shaped by patience, repetition, discipline, and beauty.
Whether you are just beginning or returning to refine your skills, Aizome Studio offers a place to study cloth as both craft and practice.
This is a series of (5) 2-Day Japanese Stitched- Shibori workshops
Mon-Tue, Wed-Thursday, Friday-Saturday, Mon-Tues, Wed-Thursday
Each workshop will allow for separate registration by technique
Shibori : Cloth, Lineage and Indigo Discipline with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors (Copy)
Where cloth, process, and indigo become a practice.
Aizome Studio is Suzanne Connors’ dedicated body of work in traditional Japanese textile arts—offering deeper study in shibori, katazome, indigo, and heritage-based cloth practices.
Hosted at Aya Fiber Studio in Stuart, Florida, these workshops are designed for those seeking more than a surface introduction. Through small-group intensives, immersive retreats, and thoughtful, process-oriented teaching, Aizome Studio invites students into a slower rhythm of making—one shaped by patience, repetition, discipline, and beauty.
Whether you are just beginning or returning to refine your skills, Aizome Studio offers a place to study cloth as both craft and practice.
This is a series of (5) 2-Day Japanese Stitched- Shibori workshops
Mon-Tue, Wed-Thursday, Friday-Saturday, Mon-Tues, Wed-Thursday
Each workshop will allow for separate registration by technique
Reclaimed threads: Sakiori and Sashiko
Reclaimed threads: Sakiori and Sashiko with Atsuko Chirikjian
This workshop begins with an introduction to the history and cultural roots of boro—Japan’s tradition of cloth made precious through use, repair, and reinvention—alongside the aesthetic philosophy of wabi-sabi, which honors imperfection, resilience, and quiet beauty.
Participants will learn the foundational techniques of sakiori weaving and sashiko stitching, working with simple hand tools and looms constructed from everyday, recycled materials. Through guided exploration, students will experiment with fabric choices, weaving structures, yarn placement, and stitch patterns, discovering how small variations create rich visual and textural results.
As the workshop progresses, students are encouraged to move beyond traditional references, using these techniques as a springboard to develop a contemporary boro-inspired piece that reflects their own sensibility and story. The workshop culminates in a finished boro bag or a unique textile piece, ready to be used, worn, or further transformed—an object shaped by hand, history, and personal expression.
Tropic Bound
The most recent edition of Tropic Bound returned to the Miami Design District February 6-9, 2025, welcoming 93 exhibitors from 12 countries, 2100+ visitors from over 23 countries, and 17 artist presenters. This international event highlighted the art of books, and books that are art, with an educational symposium, breakaway sessions, and a bustling fair filled with exhibitors from around the globe.
Details for 2027 Fair will be updated as received
Japanese Papermaking & Bookbinding Intensive with Anne Covell
A three-day hands-on retreat exploring handmade paper, structure, and the poetry of the book form
Join artist and bookmaker Anne Covell for a deep dive into the traditional craft of Japanese papermaking and bookbinding. Through patient, tactile process, you’ll learn how natural fibers, water, and motion combine to create luminous sheets of handmade washi — and how those sheets can be transformed into refined, expressive book forms.
Over three focused days, you’ll experience every step of the process: preparing kozo fiber, forming and drying sheets, and constructing simple and complex bindings using traditional Japanese tools and techniques. Along the way, Anne shares her insights on form, sequence, and the subtle interplay between paper, structure, and story.
This immersive intensive welcomes both beginners and experienced makers seeking to expand their understanding of paper and book as creative media.
Print & Play Dye Workshop with Kevin Womack
Print & Play Dye Workshop
Explore your design potential in this fun, process-oriented printing workshop. Working with fabric dyes, we will sample a myriad of ways to add pattern to cloth, including direct and indirect application, and various methods of printing with silkscreens. An emphasis on improvisation using impromptu methods will help you produce unique cloth with complex imagery. Come prepared to have fun, get messy and play!
Morakami
Registration Opens 8/1/2026
https://morikami.org/event/shibori-indigo-workshop/
Is All About the BOX with Claudia Lee
In this class you will learn to create your own reusable patterns to make boxes
to your specifications. We will be using both handmade and commercial papers
and will learn the techniques that I use to make strong, durable forms.
A box form provides lots of surface for collage, stitching and working with found
objects to create a piece of sculptural artwork that can also be very functional.
If you have never stitched on paper I think you will be in for a treat. It’s one of my
favorite things to do.
Katazome: Resist and Reveal with Aizome Studio | suzanne connors
Katazome: Resist & Reveal
An Aizome Studio Workshop with Suzanne Connors
Hosted at Aya Fiber Studio
A five-day immersive study in the traditional Japanese art of katazome—rice paste resist dyeing. Through stencil, paste, and indigo, pattern slowly emerges as cloth is transformed through patience, repetition, and care. This small-group experience invites you into a deeper, process-driven practice where tradition and personal expression meet.
Carve It, Print Carving & Repeat Pattern Printing on Fabric with Jeanne Brady
Explore the joy of linoleum block carving and repeat pattern printing on fabric. Learn to design, carve your blocks, ink up and print a variety of repeating patterns using transparent pigments with infinite color mixing options. Carving is done with a set of tools that last a lifetime. Take home your hand-carved blocks, hand printed fabrics, an information handout and printing skills for continued use. Carving is done with sharp tools.
Maximum # of students: 10
Altered Mica Book with Daniel Essig
This workshop will explore the process of creating and filling a hand bound book.
Utilizing a binding that has withstood the test of time with its elegance, flexibility and strength, we will first bind a book of fine papers and ridged translucent mica sheets. We will then work back into the pages, constructing niches, alcoves and secret spaces to house and protect treasures, images and words.
Participants will learn to work with mica. We will use both the natural and manmade forms of this material becoming familiar with the in and outs of micas unique characteristics.
Through the use of mica, the Coptic binding and found objects and materials we will push our book structures to sculptural forms.
Light and Lacey- Mixed Media Fiber Art Collage with Valerie Goodwin
A three-day creative retreat exploring transparency, layering, and architectural composition
Join fiber artist Valerie Goodwin for an inspiring three-day workshop that merges fiber, design, and light. Using transparent and semi-transparent materials, you’ll explore how layering, texture, and stitch can transform fabric into luminous, architectural compositions that seem to breathe with light.
Through hands-on demonstrations and guided exercises, Valerie will share her signature techniques for constructing intricate collages that combine fabric, thread, and mixed-media materials. You’ll learn how to balance structure and spontaneity while developing your own visual language of pattern and translucency.
Stuart Studio Closing for Season
Closing early this season while Suzanne leads 2 groups to Japan. Headed to NC Aizome Studio in June and will return to Stuart location in October 2027! Have a GREAT summer!
REEF to RIVER ART FESTIVAL
River Reef Art Festival taking place on March 21 & 22.
A vibrant, two-day celebration of local art, nature, and American history – set against the stunning backdrop of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area.
This festival celebrates the unique connection between the Loxahatchee River, the Indian River Lagoon, and the vibrant reef ecosystem just offshore.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Light and Lacy with Valerie Goodwin
Create lovely collages using shapes such as map elements, floral motifs, and /or geometric patterns and shapes using opaque and sheer fabrics.
Explore the potential of intricately cut surfaces created with the Silhouette Cameo electronic cutter. This popular machine can provide precision cutting that leads to beautiful detail.
The instructor will also provide the opportunity to work with elements that are pre-cut with a laser cutter.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
SFSDA Spring Trunk show
The South Florida Surface Design Association (SFSDA)2026 Annual Spring Trunk Show, a vibrant celebration of fiber art, surface design, and creative craftsmanship. This special two-day event showcases the extraordinary talents of our member artists and offers a unique opportunity to experience the many forms of contemporary surface design.
Katazome- Japanese Rice Paste Resist
The traditional Japanese art of katazome is ancient. Kata means stencil and zome is a form of the word someru which means to dye- hence katazome (stencil dyeing)
The basic process of stencil dyeing is not complicated. First, a stencil is cut and placed on a piece of fabric. Next resist paste is applied through the stencil.
The stencil is then removed, and the pasted fabric is allowed to dry in the sunlight. Fabric is then treated with sizing if going to be dyed with pigments. Fabric is then indigo dyed or the color pigments brushed on.
Finally, the fabrics are soaked in water to remove the paste.
The steps of creating Katazome must be followed in sequence, and timing is essential.
Stitched Shibori, Maki-Age & Kumo: Drawing with Thread with Aizome Studio | Suzanne Connors
This 4-day intensive workshop explores kumo, stitched, mokume, and maki-age shibori as a progressive practice of drawing with thread. Students will work through multiple dye baths, selectively releasing bindings to create layered shade variations, and develop an original textile composition guided by line, tension, and form.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Develop a Personal Artistic Vocabulary on Paper with Claudia Lee
Our focus for this workshop will be for each student to develop their own personal design vocabulary on which to build a body of work.
This vocabulary will take the form of text, images and a personal color palate that will be developed through the exploration of surface design techniques including wax resist, mono-printing on a gel plate, paste papers, image transfers, collage, stitching, mark-making and more.
Visual Haiku with Flax Fiber Collage with Jacqueline Mallegni
Explore Wabi-Sabi through flax roving and natural materials, creating collages and visual haiku. Experiment with texture, mark-making, and materiality to express place and self creatively.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Intro to Shibori and Indigo
Indigo is an ancient dye derived from the leaves of plants and surrounded by magic, mystery, and folklore. Discover how the leaves ‘make blue’ by learning about the character and chemistry of the natural indigo vat.
The complex chemistry of the indigo vat is fascinating and students will soon appreciate how rituals have grown around the making and using of a successful vat. The unique ‘attaching’ of indigo to fiber means it is particularly suited to resist methods of dying, such as shibori, where portions of cloth are closed off to the dye or where the flow of dye is restricted. Different shades of blue build on the fabric after several dips, exhibiting the beautiful graded hues that are so typical of indigo.
SKILLS/TECHNIQUES COVERED: Students will initially learn how an indigo vat is made. A vat will be prepared in the morning and the basic chemistry explained. The natural indigo powder will be used, and the vat will be ‘reduced’ using a commercially available chemical. While the vat develops, students will be shown several shibori techniques: a folded and clamped method, and a twisted and tied technique.
LEVEL: Beginner and intermediate
LOCATION: STUART STUDIO
Students will be given authentic Japanese tenugi fabric for class instruction
https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/event/674884f4aa4a191770efdd16
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Lisa Binkley
The Colorful Chemistry of Plants: A Botanical Printing Workshop—Bring a favorite plant to life and explore its beauty on fabric in this hands-on, creative immersion.
Mimosa’s and Mending: A Slow Stitch social at Aya Fiber Studio
Mimosas & Mending at Aya Fiber Studio is a relaxed, creative social event where you can repair, refresh, and upcycle your favorite clothing using hand-stitching, sashiko, patchwork, and visible mending techniques. Enjoy a morning of slow stitching, community connection, and—of course—fresh mimosas. Bring denim, jeans, or well-loved garments and leave with beautiful repairs and new skills. Perfect for beginners and seasoned makers.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Depth and Mystery in Shibori with DOSHI
Explore Shibori, where chance and material guide the dyeing process. Learn resist techniques, layering, discharge, and acid dyeing on silk to create rich, textured, and vibrant fabrics.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Open Studio Time
Aya Fiber Studio Open Studio in Stuart, Florida provides dedicated studio time for artists to work independently on fiber art projects. Enjoy a quiet, creative environment designed for focus, experimentation, and hands-on making in a professional studio setting.
Happy New Year 2026
As this year closes, I’m deeply grateful — for the trust you place in this studio, for the conversations held over fabric and thread, and for the way this community continues to show up with curiosity, generosity, and heart. It feels much like this moment in the season: a pause filled with warmth, light, and quiet anticipation for what’s ahead.
Closed for Christmas
We will be closed for Christmas
Wed Dec 24th 12:00 PM Through Sunday Dec 28th, 2025
Happy Holidays! ✨
May this season bring you five timeless gifts: joy in your heart, warmth in your home, peace in your mind, laughter with loved ones, and hope for the year ahead. Whether you’re celebrating traditions old or creating new ones, may the days be bright and the moments meaningful.
Wishing you comfort, connection, and a wonderful start to what comes next.