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resources for the textile arts community
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resources for the textile arts community
I have always had a fascination with textures and as a young child would always be busy making something with oddments that were lying around at home. This passion for creation was probably inherited from my Mother who made me beautiful soft toys and clothes. My favourite was a hippy rag doll, complete with Afghan coat fringed with mohair wool.
On leaving school I was not sure which career path I wanted to follow, so my Mum directed me towards 'Preparation for a Future in Fashion' course at Westminster College for a year. Still undecided, I got a job working as an art technician in a school, where I became interested in art in general and studied the subject in my spare time and at evening classes.
Eventually, I enrolled on a degree course at Goldsmiths' College, where I specialised in Education and Art. One day, I wondered in to a Textiles degree show and was so inspired by the wonderful creations on display that I knew I had found my calling in life. I began experimenting with fabrics and threads at home. With the help of various books I taught myself to machine embroider, just like some of the textile students at my college.
After college I became a primary school teacher and I soon took responsibility for Art and Technology within the school. Working part-time enabled me to pursue my hobby in depth. I became more interested in the work of other textile artists and wanted to promote these to a wider audience, so nine years later, I opened a gift shop/gallery in Caterham. I had an amazing response from the people in and around Surrey and sold many of my pieces. Unfortunately, a 300% rent increase forced me to close my shop 'Shrinking Violet' after 5 years.
During my time as a shop proprietor I spent one day a week at South Thames College studying for the City and Guilds in Fabric Decoration. I became involved in a whole range of new techniques including felt-making and silk screen printing. Many of these ideas are becoming incorporated into my work. I am also inspired by natural and man-made forms which I often draw and then translate into embroideries.
I had many requests for lessons from customers intrigued by the magic process of drawing with a sewing machine so I have started teaching small groups in my own home.
Learn how to use a sewing machine to draw beautiful designs and patterns. Begin with a sample and progress to a one-off piece of art using appliqué and sumptuous materials.
Using a pattern, make a unique and practical Tote bag. Learn how to apply free machine embroidered images and exquisite hand-beading to the finished product.
Use fabulous silks to create your own scarf. Adorn your product with appliqué and free machine embroidery using your own designs of flowers and leaves. No drawing skills required!
Experiment with a range of simple printmaking techniques. Learn how to design and cut your own stencil and use a silk-screen to produce multiple images on paper and fabric.
Investigate the purpose of your sketchbook and examine different ways in which it can be approached. Produce your own mini book using drawing, notes, collage, painting, etc
Develop your own style of painting by exploring different techniques. Create a series of examples, using some well planned exercises in tone, colour, composition, perspective, etc. Produce your own piece of art with your newly acquired confidence.
Design your own gorgeous cushion. Make a simple pattern and patchwork the fabric pieces together. Understand how to create designer style with layers of natural fabrics, sewn, slashed and distressed.
All courses are one day and run from 10am - 3pm. Except Simple Printmaking for Textiles which is from 10am - 12.30pm. Please bring your own sewing machine and a packed lunch. Tea, coffee and fruit juices will be provided and some materials are included in the cost.
Classes suit all levels and are kept very small, (4 or less), to ensure all students have plenty of individual attention from the tutor.
Payment is made at the time of booking. All courses cost £45.
Dinah Jane Pitman-Rowe
23 Coldstream Road
Caterham
Surrey
CR3 5ZA
Tel: 01883 347442. Email:
Website: rainyjoe.co.uk
Read Jane's articles on Using Sketchbooks to Inspire Creative Textiles and Textile Arts and Commercial Enterprise
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