If you follow my blog, you will know that Susan and I go way back. We have holidayed together countless times and, most recently, made several trips in pursuit of exceptional feltmaking experiences. A couple of years ago, Susan gave me a copy of Catherine O'Leary's book, From felt to fabric. Imagine my delight when I saw that, not only was Catherine to be teaching a 3-day workshop on Bodywraps this summer, but that it would take us back to the Netherlands...this time to Atelier Fiberfusing, run by feltmaker, Dorie van Dijk. The location for our felting sojourn on the banks of the River Amstel could not have been bettered, despite the heatwave of the first couple of days and the ever-hungry mosquitoes at our accommodation.
The days of the workshop with Catherine were full from start to finish. This was an international group of experienced feltmakers, keen to learn and full of high expectations. Catherine combined a gentle manner with clear instruction, regular reinforcement and constant encouragement. To see how hard everyone worked and the huge range of design and garments produced over the period was fascinating.
My approach to the workshop was to do as I was told (yes, really)...and to understand the why. By the end of the three days, I had (still in my head but to be written down as soon as possible) a long list of fabulous tips.
How to create a garment from basic shapes.
How to adjust a pattern.
How to create interesting design as opposed to fabric.
How to use silk to create shadows.
How to join felt pieces without water.
How to create smooth edges and shape shoulders.
How to make buttons.
I learned from Catherine and from my classmates. I saw how an efficient feltmaking workspace is organised and set up. I enjoyed the food, the hospitality and the companionship. Most of all, I loved being with women who are as nuts about felt as I am.
My approach to the workshop was to do as I was told (yes, really)...and to understand the why. By the end of the three days, I had (still in my head but to be written down as soon as possible) a long list of fabulous tips.
How to create a garment from basic shapes.
How to adjust a pattern.
How to create interesting design as opposed to fabric.
How to use silk to create shadows.
How to join felt pieces without water.
How to create smooth edges and shape shoulders.
How to make buttons.
I learned from Catherine and from my classmates. I saw how an efficient feltmaking workspace is organised and set up. I enjoyed the food, the hospitality and the companionship. Most of all, I loved being with women who are as nuts about felt as I am.
