MATERIALS EXPLORATION
SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, 2023 10am - 2pm
PRE-REGISTER BY: Aug. 19
CLASS FEE: $85 for Non-Members / $79.50 for Members
FORMAT: IN-PERSON

This workshop is an exploration of soft materials and basketry methods used to make fabric from fibers. Topics include making cordage from various materials, twining and knotless netting. We will work with a variety of things to make cordage, then use that cordage to make a fabric-like structure. We’ll use plant material (a variety), fabric scraps, hemp twine, waxed linen, threads and strings, plastic bags and whatever else you’d like to try to turn into cordage. Once we have made a bit of cordage we will explore ways to turn that string into fabric and structure. Some materials will be provided, but students are encouraged to bring anything they’d like to use. Natural materials to gather and dry include dandelion stems (look for very long ones) daffodil stems and leaves, daylily leaves, iris leaves, long grasses. Materials should be dried before use. Instructor will supply most of the class materials.

Students should bring: Apron, scissors (not for fabric), gardening and/or rubber gloves, spray bottle, 2 old towels and a bucket for water.

Students are also encouraged (but not required) to bring cordage materials they would like to explore. Some examples include natural materials such as iris leaves, daffodil leaves, day lily leaves, seagrass, tall ornamental grasses, dandelion stems. These materials need to be removed from the plant (after the leaves have begun to brown, don’t cut them early as the plants need the nutrients to be ready to grow again next spring) and dried. If you don’t dry the plant materials before using they will shrink and your cordage will come apart.

Other materials with which we can experiment include old papers, fabric scraps, yarn, string… your imagination is your only limit!