Teaching Schedule

A workshop for students who want an intensive study of sculptural ply-split braiding. A perfect workshop to learn ply-split braiding or to take your ply-split skills to the next level. The workshop will provide plenty of one-on-one instruction, as well as clearly written instructions to take home. In addition to the instructor providing prepared prepared cotton cords, students will also learn to spin their own cords during the workshop.

Creating 3-dimensional pieces with ply-split braiding. The workshop begins with a small 2-dimensional sampler piece to get comfortable with 4 strand 4ply cotton cord, learn how to use a fid and understand the basic twining techniques (plain oblique twining, single course oblique twining and two layered oblique interlacing). Very quickly we will move on to 3-dimensional work. Students will receive materials to make several smaller sculptural pieces/vessels or one larger piece. Instructor will teach several ways to start, how to shape using tension and cord placement and various finishing techniques to encourage students to create their own unique piece(s).

Weaving Skill Level: All Level

A workshop for students who want an intensive study of diagonal twill plaiting with paper. The workshop will provide plenty of one-on-one instruction, as well as clearly written instructions to take home. A perfect workshop to master diagonal twill plaiting. In addition to the instructor bringing prepared paper for weaving projects, students may also paint and/or dye their own paper during the workshop.

Diagonal Twill Plaiting: Students will work at their own pace, progressing through various projects to gain confidence and learn a variety of diagonal twill techniques. Most students will begin with Diagonal Twill Basics, weaving two baskets simultaneously while exploring the foundations of this technique. After that, the instructor will help students chose projects that help them build their skills and confidence throughout the week. Students who have attended this workshop in the past will have the opportunity to learn new techniques, and advanced students may be interested in exploring designing.

Students may choose from a variety of projects (kits for purchase) that explore pattern and color use, teach how to create extra corners and shoulders, as well as working with a variety of bases like square, rectangular, non-symmetrical, footed and triangular. Materials and instructions for a variety of diagonal plaited baskets will be provided in class.

Preparing paper for weaving: In this workshop, students will weave with two types of paper and they have the option to explore applying color and cutting paper. Students may choose one or both of the following paper preparation options: 1. Using acrylics to paint two large sheets of watercolor paper. 2. Using a low water immersion method to dye two large sheets of washable paper. After their paper has cured (about day 3), students may cut their paper and use it in class or take it home with them. Instructor will provide paper, dye and paint, as well as cutting tools.

Both types of paper can be used for diagonal twill plaiting. In the workshop, we will discuss why we are preparing them differently, as well as how each type of paper can be used. Project suggestions for each type of paper will be available.

Weaving Skill Level: Intermediate – Advanced