Compare and contrast

Intricate designs in Japanese Temari was the focus of Judie Yamamoto’s recent three-day class.  Sorted into categories such as “Complex 8” and “Complex 10”, students learned how to create the lush swirls and precise motifs on these elegant Temari.  Lines carefully measured and marked across the circumference of the ball provided the starting points for the decorative stitching.

     

   

At the same time, Stephanie Robertson’s Making Your Mark: A Fabric Journey class was in session.  Compare the use of color, the variety of designs and the joy of the process.  In contrast, no measured and precise lines while dyeing.  Instead, the wonderful gift of experimentation and surprise (generally happy surprise) with each unveiling.  If the original concept for the fabric doesn’t appear, there’s always indigo for over-dyeing!

 

  

Methods used in class included screen printing,  direct painting,  ice dyeing,  indigo dyeing,  dyeing with resists,  bleach discharge,  marbling,  shibori and probably a lot more that were demonstrated when the camera was sleeping in the office.

   

  

 

  

   

Whether it’s a single needle and thread in your hand or yards of fabric and buckets of dye at your disposal, it’s all about connecting with others who share your same interests.