Description
Create unique three-dimensional figures (healing spirit “dolls”) that express a sense of mystery, power and whimsy. Learn simple construction techniques (eg. fabric over weighted bottles, fabric-wrapped sticks or wire) and incorporate a wide range of evocative fibers, found materials and natural elements. Wonderful chance to play with materials. No prerequisites.
What Every Participant Should Bring
Note: much of this will consist of things you already have on hand, and if you do buy any supplies, they should also be usable in other contexts. Don’t stress over any one item, since I will have some extras on hand if need be.
–Journal or notebook and pen/pencils; inexpensive paper for possible additional sketching, and using as a base for gluing.
–Fabric scraps of different types that you may have on hand—from cheesecloth to upholstery fabric; bring a variety of textures and weights and colors if you have them. These can be handknit or crocheted as well as purchased cloth.
–An old sheet or large old textile hat can be torn into strips for wrapping.
–Polyester fiberfill for stuffing.
–Heavy duty scissors.
–Utility knife and/or exacto blade if you have them.
–Glue gun and glue sticks if you have them. (I don’t really like working with these but there are many instances when they can be of help.
–Tape: thin duct tape, masking tape, packing tape, “magic tape” if you have it
–Other strong adhesives you may have on hand, including white or PVA glue, tacky glue, glitter glue, E-6000, clear silicone gel. (I don’t feel gorilla glue is easy to control, but some people like it).
–Ribbons, yarns, rickrack and other sewing novelties and selection of beads if you have them.
–String or cording if you have it.
–Needles and thread—different weights and colors are helpful. Be sure to have at least one big-eyed needle and heavy thread. Bring some very strong thread (waxed linen or upholstery thread is good) if you have it.
–Wire of different gauge if you have it—mostly should be flexible enough to bend easily.
–Clean empty plastic bottles of different shapes and sizes–relatively small; not bigger than a half gallon. These will be used as bases for some of the figures. They will be weighted with beans or sand.
–Found objects or natural items like twigs, shells, bits of bone that can be incorporated—stitched or glued on or wired in. Be creative in looking for these and think about ways they can be attached.
