Workshops
Explore. Experiment. Create.
Creativity is about discovery, experimentation and the freedom to explore possibilities beyond the familiar.
My workshops are designed to encourage you to see materials, textures and techniques in new ways. Whether transforming silk fibres into beautiful new fabrics, discovering the creative potential of an embellisher machine, or turning the tiniest scraps into extraordinary pieces of wearable art, each workshop is an invitation to experiment and discover what is possible.
I share techniques and knowledge developed through more than 40 years of creative exploration, but the emphasis is always on developing your own artistic expression, rather than reproducing mine.
Come with curiosity, a willingness to experiment and an open mind. You might surprise yourself with what you create.
Silk Fibre Alchemy
Transforming Silk Fibres into Handmade Paper and Fabric
Discover the extraordinary possibilities of silk fibre in this creative, hands-on, one-day workshop.
Learn how to transform loose silk fibres into beautiful, individual pieces of handmade paper and fabric using techniques often referred to as silk fusion.
Explore colour, texture and layering while incorporating materials such as silk ribbons, organza, flower petals, threads and other embellishments into your creations.
From textile art and wearable pieces to jewellery, bags, journals and decorative objects, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
You'll leave with your own creations, new techniques and the knowledge to continue experimenting at home.
Duration: One day
Materials: Included
For workshop enquiries, please contact me.
We also learn how to trap things between silk to create a unique surface
We start with dyed silk fibre
We create this silk fabric from the dyed silk fibre. This piece has been twin needled for a future project.
Examples of what you can do with your Embellisher Machine
Creative Fusion
Exploring Your Embellisher Machine
Your embellisher machine is capable of far more than you might imagine.
In this creative, hands-on, one-day workshop, discover how to transform fabrics, fibres and threads into extraordinary textures, surfaces and original textile creations.
Explore the unique possibilities of your embellisher machine as you experiment with combining materials, building layers and creating fabrics that can be used in wearable art, bags, journal covers, brooches and other textile projects.
Throughout the day, you'll explore four different approaches: creating soft, draping fabric; structured fabric; felt fabric; and an individual creative piece.
Whether your embellisher has been sitting unused or you've only explored a fraction of its possibilities, this workshop will encourage you to experiment, discover new techniques and see your machine in an entirely different light.
You'll leave with four projects and the knowledge and confidence to continue exploring at home.
Duration: One day
Requirements: Participants bring their own embellisher machine and materials. A detailed requirements list will be provided.
For workshop enquiries, please contact me.
Treasure in the Tiniest Scraps
Creating One-of-a-Kind Wearable Art
Who would have thought that the tiniest scraps of fabric, forgotten buttons, fragments of lace, tangled threads and discarded treasures could become extraordinary little works of wearable art?
In this imaginative, hands-on workshop, discover how to transform life's leftovers into beautiful, individual brooches that are as unique as the person creating them.
Explore the possibilities of combining silk, felt, velvet, lace, fibres, beads, embroidery and unexpected found objects. Learn how to build layers of colour and texture, create interesting compositions and bring your ideas to life through stitching, embellishment and mixed-media techniques.
We'll explore the creative freedom of working on a small scale, where experimentation is encouraged and there are no rules about what materials belong together.
You'll also discover how to construct and professionally finish your brooches, from choosing a suitable foundation to attaching the backing and pin.
Whether your inspiration comes from nature, memories, colour or simply an intriguing collection of scraps, you'll be encouraged to develop your own artistic expression.
By the end of the day, you'll have made your own original brooch and know how to create your own collection of original brooches — miniature artworks that can be worn, gifted or treasured.
No two will ever be alike.
To see examples of my original brooches and the creative possibilities of working with scraps and found materials, visit my Wearable Art page.
Workshop Details
Duration: One day
Experience: Suitable for beginners and experienced textile artists.
Materials: A selection of materials will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring their own treasured scraps, fabrics, buttons, beads and other interesting remnants.
For workshop enquiries, please contact me.