Calendar of upcoming events.

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Deconstructing Nature with Kerr Grabrowski
Nov
11
to Nov 15

Deconstructing Nature with Kerr Grabrowski

Let Nature be your muse as you embrace and trust the unexpected and unpredictable. Explore line, texture and form via fiber reactive dyes and easily removable screen stencils such as wax and paper, deconstructed screen-printing, polychromatic printing, direct dye application and more.

In this workshop, we will use the screen in an intuitive, experimental way as well as in a stencil based, more traditional way.

Expect to come away with personal rather than technique based forms of expression. Eco printed fabrics and papers as well as plain cellulose and silks are appropriate.

https://ayafiberstudio.corsizio.com/event/66b506d85fce9b56467b6ce4

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Katazome: Japanese Paste Resist with Suzanne Connors
Dec
10
to Dec 13

Katazome: Japanese Paste Resist with Suzanne Connors

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 dyed or the coler pigments brushed on.

Finally, the fabrics soaked in water to remove the paste.

The steps of katazome must be followed in sequence, and timing is essential.

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PATTERNING THE PATTERNS with Amy Nguyen-
Jan
7
to Jan 11

PATTERNING THE PATTERNS with Amy Nguyen-

PATTERNING THE PATTERN

 

The pattern is an essential key to our work as we continue to explore the process of developing surface design while deepening our understanding of the elements and principles of art that go into our textile work. Perhaps we have discovered the essence in a piece we’ve created yet wish to develop further. Do we envision this on the body, in the home, or as an installation? 

 In this workshop, we will continue our textile mind-body practices through focused work with brush, paper, and scissors to explore size, scale, repetition, rhythm, and balance. There will be particular emphasis on deconstructing and/or layering a patterned cloth that we’ve already created. We will investigate the placement of shapes, pattern repetition, or changing the pattern of our surface design with added hand or machine stitching. 

 Through creative patternmaking, we may also choose to develop a garment design pattern for our textile, perhaps by altering a historical shape such as the kimono to fit our body. Always paying attention to both the inside and outside, there will be demonstrations of seam construction and finishing techniques.

 Depending on the complexity of your design, a fully finished piece may not be fully realized during the workshop, though working in a community will facilitate our textile piece moving into the world.

 A brief movement qigong/meditation practice will begin each day to encourage presence and awareness. By paying attention to not just the form we are creating, but also to our form as we create, we encourage mind body connection to deepen our studio practice and discover relationships and connections to inform our evolution. 

 Process + Awareness + Connection workshop is a recommended prerequisite, but not required. 

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Batik ADIRE Tie-Dye with Gasali Adeyemo
Feb
4
to Feb 7

Batik ADIRE Tie-Dye with Gasali Adeyemo

Learn the traditional Yoruba adire eleko and tie-dye techniques in this workshop with master craftsman Gasali Adeyemo. Experiment with intricate patterns while learning the history and meanings behind the traditional designs. Students will learn how to prepare an indigo vat and cassava paste resist. As you dye your finished pieces in deep blue indigo learn the importance and history of indigo dye in the Yoruba culture.

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Natural Dyeing Seminar : Classical Natural Dyes Created in Modern Setting
Feb
16
to Feb 20

Natural Dyeing Seminar : Classical Natural Dyes Created in Modern Setting

  • 170 Northeast Dixie Highway Stuart, FL, 34994 (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Natural Dyeing of the 18th Century, in a Modern Setting: Classical Natural Dyes at your Fingertips

Create stunning colors from plans, inspired by the recipes of the old masters, adjusted to fit a modern dye kitchen.

Day one: 

On the first day, you learn about the systems and economics of the 18th-century natural dye industry. Specifically in the South of France, which was the leading economic force of that century.

We learn about the master dyers of the era and their recipe books.

Practical instructions:

  • Correct cleaning of natural fibers

  • Water ratios

  • WOF calculations

  • Record keeping and building a library.

  • Practice and test: cleaning the materials you will be using for the rest of the trials.

  • Color: Learn how to set up an indigo bath

Day two

We will dye base colors of different shades of blue according to 18th-century shade cards. 

  • milky blue

  • azure blue

  • Kings blue

  • You will learn how to dye correctly, and how to maintain your vat for continued dyeing.

  • You will learn about the mordanting process for wool, and we will mordant part of our fabric for the following steps.

Day three

The yellows

You will learn a classical mordant bath for our wool fabric.

We will create a classical weld dye bath and a buckthorn berry bath and dye our yellow samples.

We will create 

  • Lemon Yellow

  • Warm Yellow

  • Vert Gay (cheerful Green)

  • Vert d’Herbe (herb green)

Day four

Going all out with Madder and Cochineal

Today you will learn how to create vibrant reds with madder

We will create Purples by over-dyeing our blue samples 

We will create ORANGE by over-dyeing yellow samples

  • Madder red

  • Scarlet red

  • Golden Cinnamon

  • Violet

  • Lila

Day Five

Greys, taupe and more. 

Learn how to reuse your dye baths and combine them with mordants to create even more stunning shades.

We will finish our dyeing and collect and cut all the samples to make your sample collection for future reference.

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Sashiko Class Core & Essence, plus Application
Mar
7
to Mar 9

Sashiko Class Core & Essence, plus Application

Learn the spirit and skills of sashiko stitching from the authentic sashiko artist, Atsushi Futatsuya!

Sashiko is the traditional Japanese art of decorative mending stitches. In this 3-day workshop, you will learn about the art and history of Sashiko, how to use a long needle and make beautiful stitches, and how to find joy in stitching. You will learn how to transfer patterns to fabric and we will discuss ideas for future projects and how to use sashiko as part of a mindful mending practice. This is a unique opportunity to learn authentic Sashiko stitching from a traditional master, Atsushi Futatsuya, a third-generation Sashiko artist. You will be learning directly from his traditional family wisdom and years of experience as a Sashiko educator. Following a lecture and demonstration by Atsushi, students will practice this meditative art and advance their Sashiko skills with lots of hands-on guidance.

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Encaustic Embellishment Extravaganza with Lorraine Glessner
Mar
17
to Mar 21

Encaustic Embellishment Extravaganza with Lorraine Glessner

Explore flexible and exciting encaustic painting techniques to create complex, multi-layered pieces with intricate patterns and expressive personal surfaces. With an emphasis on mixed media, methods and materials covered in this workshop include the use of organic and geometric form, realistic and abstract imagery, patterned collage, photo transfer, stencils, candy molds, embossing foils, and branding (creating marks with heated metal and wood burning tools). Using pattern and repetition as content itself, to tell a story, support and/or strengthen the message will also be discussed. Students will leave enriched, inspired and closer to their own voice and vision. All levels welcome.

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INTRO TO ECO-PRINT
Apr
1

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

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3 Day Botanical Print Workshop
Apr
2
to Apr 4

3 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 3-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

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Apr
23

Stuart Studio Closing for Season ( Japan trip)

The Stuart Studio is closing early this year - We are preparing for a Japan Textile Adventure!

We will be closing at 3:00 PM to get ready for our trip. I will be returning the end of May and will head immediately to the NC Mountains for Summer Programming!

See you in October! (or in NC)

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3 Day Botanical Print Workshop
Oct
29
to Oct 31

3 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 3-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

View Event →
INTRO TO ECO-PRINT
Oct
28

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

View Event →
Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association Intro to Shibori & Indigo
Sep
20

Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association Intro to Shibori & Indigo

Introduction to Shibori and Indigo

Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced
September 20, 2024 -1 Session (Friday)
10:30 am - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Class Fee: $140 non-members + $30 supply fee
                  $126 BRMAA members + $30 supply fee

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, which are so typical of indigo.
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. During this workshop we will make a set of (4) cotton napkins.
Please bring with you: a pair of new dishwashing-long rubber gloves, a seam-picker or a small pair of sharp scissors, an old shirt or apron (please wear old clothes), closed-toe shoes, a package of rubber bands-assorted sizes, sewing needles with a large sized eye, 1 item of clothing (linen, cotton, viscose or silk) you wish to “upcycle” with your new skills (not too large as we will be sharing a vat, and please pre-scour ALL fabrics before bringing to class. Wash in hot water with mild soap-boil for 20 to 30 minutes). Each person can dye approximately 4 items. The instructor will provide the napkins and other necessary materials for the project.


Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
420 West Main Street   Blue Ridge GA  30513
(706) 632- 2144 office    (706) 632-7785 fax      
BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com

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Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association  Intro to Shibori & Indigo
Aug
23

Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association Intro to Shibori & Indigo

Introduction to Shibori and Indigo

Beginning, Intermediate & Advanced
August 23, 2024 -1 Session (Friday)
10:30 am - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Suzanne Connors
Class Fee: $140 non-members + $30 supply fee
                  $126 BRMAA members + $30 supply fee

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, which are so typical of indigo.
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. Students can expect to dye a scarf and 3 sample sized cotton fabrics in this workshop.
Please bring with you: a pair of new dishwashing-long rubber gloves, a seam-picker or a small pair of sharp scissors, an old shirt or apron (please wear old clothes), closed-toe shoes, a package of rubber bands-assorted sizes, sewing needles with a large sized eye, 1 item of clothing (linen, cotton, viscose or silk) you wish to “upcycle” with your new skills (not too large as we will be sharing a vat, and please pre-scour ALL fabrics before bringing to class. Wash in hot water with mild soap-boil for 20 to 30 minutes). Each person can dye approximately 6 items. The instructor will provide the scarf and other necessary materials for the project.


Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association
420 West Main Street   Blue Ridge GA  30513
(706) 632- 2144 office    (706) 632-7785 fax      
BlueRidgeArts@gmail.com

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Morakami- Katazome workshop
May
18
to May 19

Morakami- Katazome workshop

The Basics of Katazome Workshop
(2-Day Workshop)

Saturday,Sunday 5/18-19/2024


Time: 10:00am – 3:00pm
Location: Oki Education Center
Material Fee: $50 (cash payable to the instructor)Participants, please bring, kitchen style rubber gloves, an apron, and/or wear old clothes

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Katazome: Japanese Paste Resist with Suzanne Connors
May
13
to May 16

Katazome: Japanese Paste Resist with Suzanne Connors

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 dyed or the coler pigments brushed on.

Finally, the fabrics soaked in water to remove the paste.

The steps of katazome must be followed in sequence, and timing is essential.

View Event →