Create Workshops

Our new create workshops are in full swing now.   First cab off the rack for me was Still life...not very likely as it didn't take long to get things stirred up and moving right along.   A while back I fell in love with the idea of making textile objects come to life.  When you really think about a still life there is more than just the object.  My first attempt is just simple shape representation with little more than composition considered.Imaginary journeys are a part of the experience that I really enjoy.  I love to look at my chair and escape to another place in time.  However, to truly create interest in the finished product we need to consider line, value and shape.  That is where the fun comes into the picture. 

Sideline:  Today at yoga we discussed how yoga is not about ego.  If we concentrate on how we look or simply how far we stretch we loose the point of practicing yoga which is about how we focus on the task at hand.  The goal is to do the best job we can for ourselves with our own limitations and gifts...note to self...ego has no real place in life.  Back to topic: 

We may want to make it real or maybe abstract or even ridiculous.  The mind has no limit.  There are endless influences to consider.  It is always interesting to see what inspires people into action and how in a room of creative people many differen thing can happen.  Everyone has their own approach, speed, focus and interest.  I could sense some fear but everyone moved past it and into action.  Well done.

There was a lull while we all consider where to start but starting is half the battle.  Working in a group helps get the juices flowing.  To create is the goal.  It can be intimidating or relaxing and just a bit messy but results start happening.

Marina popped out for a bag of mangos to go in her blue window.  Suzanna got buy in Matisse style. Different strokes for different folks.  Can't wait to see what happens to these in the next few weeks!

 

 

Day two this week brought a different kind of creative workshop...Stash to Treasure.  Mission?...pick an antique quilt and make it happen.  Sound easy?  Well it was heaps of work but really fun.  That is if you like graph paper, calculators and erasers.   There were lots of ideas flying around but everyone worked hard and results were happening.

It doesn't have to be hard.  Some of our greatest inspirations are simply constructed but every quilt deserves serious consideration in regard to fabrics that will create the look we are looking for.  Susan has chosen Reece's shot cottons to bring a rustic quilt to life.  The texture of the shot cottons immediately makes it look slightly faded with time.  The randomness of the blocks makes it feel impuslive and just a bit more interesting than a perfectly set out colour structure.  Taking note of the subtle nuances of detail of the original make this version unique as well. 

 

In another corner a traditional log cabin is being composed.  The palette thickened with some additions to a collection of Amy Butler and some gorgeous solids.  The structure will be completely traditional but the fabrics will add a statement about today...colourful and fresh.  There is a lot of sewing to go here but it has lots of promise.

Megan has chosen one of my favorite patterns.  Truth be told I might have made this one up myself but it is a vicarious thrill of the best kind for a quilter when they see a quilt vision come together in someone else's hands.  The curse of a full time working mom quilter....

Once again, these marquee stripes become a visual treat.  There is no end to their beauty.  Of particular interest here is the blend of the oh so now stripes with the very reproduction pattern and Heath...YUM. 

Anne is working on stars with her stash and again we hit the solid section.  It started out easy enough with the diamond template and the Kaffe collection of reds.  Somewher on the design wall the idea changed and the graph paper came out to create an entirely new pattern. 

The day didn't end there.  The day ended with a new class of beginners.  I have to say it feels like a priviledge to start a group out on their way to patchwork.  It is so easy to remember the curiosity and confusion of trying to figure out a patchwork pattern.  They were a fun group of women, all keen and eager.  We had a big night. They kept me too busy to snap any photos. I arrived home completely, totally exhausted and headed to bed.  Here is what I found...

That dog is not allowed on the bed.  Nor is she allowed to pull the covers down and snuggle into the pillows with that stinky ball that she loves so much.    It is naughty but nice to find her seeking comfort in a place that reminds her of us.

And...finally, for February our bargain bundles.   Five 25cm strips for $22. 

...pick your style...pretty, contemporary or classic and stimulate your stash with some hotty new fabrics!!! Its a great time to be quilting! k

 

Comments

[fiberchick]

Such creativity!!! Love your red chair and am a bit obsessed with that Kaffe print too. Would take every one of these workshops if I could. Everyone is making such beautiful things. Have you ever thought of doing classes on the web? Pretty please...

[Jane]

Love the way you caught that tongue in mid slurp. Dogs are just the best!

[pbach1]

really? "that dog is not allowed on the bed"?

[cardygirl]

The workshops look great...lots of happy faces with heads buzzing with ideas. Fun!

[Lynette]

Classes on the web now that sounds like a fantastic idea.

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I loved your talk and seeing photos of your quilts amongst the Aussie landscape was such beauty.

[Tory Burch Outlet]

I always am a bit freaked out at the start of these classes as it is to me a serious responsibility.