barn workshop

The printing workshop on Saturday was so much fun, and the feedback I got from my participants was really enthusiastic. The out of towners all ended up having last minute cancellations. This gave me an opportunity to completely focus on Jacki and Pat. Thank you both for being such wonderful students! A big hug to Pat for lending me her camera for a few shots. Yes, I forgot my camera's memory card, sadly. Neither of them had ever tried freezer paper stenciling and each had totally different approaches. It was fascinating to be in the role of observer. Seeing through new eyes is always a good thing. We began with a couple of simple silhouettes.

Pat had brought some of her water color paintings and paper cuts for inspiration. Her two lovely pieces are on the left. Jacki used to live in Japan, and I had set aside one of my favorite books on Japanese design from the barn’s library for her. Her two lovely pieces are on the right. Didn't they both do an amazing job? I had several readers question what to do with these little test swatches.
Here are some ideas:

-Fold over the top to create a channel and feed a ribbon through each one to make a bunting. How perfect for personalizing a bedroom. Think construction vehicles for the truck lover… wildflowers for the future botanists!
-Quilt squares
-Framed
-Center panel of a pillow
-Sachets
-Pocket on a tote

Jacki stayed on to learn some techniques for adding complexity, details, and multiple colors. Here’s the t-shirt she came up with for her son. I loooove it! Isn’t that one fantastic little red car?
I’ve decided that I will be holding classes regularly at the barn. It’s such a fabulous space to work in.

Setting a rejuvenating scene for these busy mothers was just as pleasurable for me as teaching a new skill!
Imagine…
-Stepping outside of your regular routine for several hours and escaping to a studio filled with inspiration and every tool and supply imaginable.
-Learning something new with a teacher at your side, ready to answer any questions.
-Listening to lovely music.
-Spending creative time with other fascinating people.
-Having a delicious meal prepared for you while you work (play!).

Stay tuned for future barn workshops… Attention all women/mothers needing time and space to reclaim their creative selves!