Three of a (fiber art) kind

This was the first year we’ve had an Introduction to Batik class since…way back. Our batik classes evolved over the years to a studio week for experienced batik students, so when Anne Landre offered to teach an introductory class with Karen Zeman, we enthusiastically said, “Yes!”. Anne brought many, if not all, of her Indonesian tjaps, which allowed beginners to apply an entire design in wax at one time on the fabric.

After applying the wax, the cotton or rayon fabrics were dyed one or more times. Some students brought fabrics created in previous classes, adding batik as another dimension. Directly applying wax with a brush for a specific design was also an option. The result? Yards of beautiful, unique fabrics, scarves and more!

Using a purchased pattern, the pieces for fronts, backs and sleeves for two wearables were cut, waxed and dyed. We can’t wait to see the finished garments!

In three days, you can learn the basics of weaving, especially with an experienced and patient instructor like Nancy Frantz. The recent Beginning Weaving on a Table Loom class covered the steps and students experienced the same satisfaction all new weavers have of finishing a piece made by their own hands.

In the Cartonnage: Toolbox class with Nancy Akerly, students used bookboard and unique papers to construct a multi-level box with drawers, trays and special features for holding tools and items needed for favorite projects.

They say using the best tools are important in achieving the best results. Can you imagine what you could do with the best toolbox?

We think any combination of fiber arts, whether one, two, or three at a time, is a winner!