Improvisational Fabric Collage and Stitching (2 part series)

The air cools, the leaves rouge and golden, and a kind of enchantment unique to Fall stirs in the air. Let us begin this October in a glorious patchwork of fabrics, fibers and friendly faces.

Textile artist Debra is returning the weekend of October 1-2 with her popular series – a journey into fabric collage and slow stitch. During this two day session, we'll create shapes, stories and patterns reflecting seasonal shifts. We will then embellish it with embroidery, stitching and weaving to honor elements that have personal meaning. 

Debra has always worked with her hands. Her process is very intuitive and she rarely uses a sewing machine. As a textile artist, she composes with color, much like a painter does, but works in fiber processes: crocheting, stitching, knitting, knotting, layering and weaving.

We will work with a 10" x 10" square of fabric, fabric scraps, needle and thread to compose our image. In the first session, we'll learn how to collage and stitch. In the second session, we'll learn how to add finer details through embellishment.

All levels are welcome and there is no prior experience required. There will be plenty of time to share, get feedback and meet other participants from around the world.

If you are not in EST time zone, be sure to convert the time.

Session 1: Fabric Collage and Stitching 
October 1 2PM - 3:30PM EST

Begin the process of collage, and prepare your design. We will go over the fundamental principles of textile collage, including whip stitch and running stitch. You will get to know the materials you have, and Debra will guide you towards an intuitive composition for your final piece. 

Session 2: Embellishing 
October 2  2PM - 3:30PM EST

Create finer detail in your piece through the art of embellishment. Debra will be showing how best to translate your imagination to decorative designs in your fabric collage.

What you'll need

• Ironed fabric scraps e.g. left over pieces from clothes and handbag. Don't cut into shapes. (recommend: Thin fabrics that are easy to hand quilt, translucent fabric for layered effect, natural fiber content works well)
• Quilting thread in various colors (recommend: Gütermann quilting thread)
• Needle (recommend: Tulip)
• Scissors
• Iron
• Embroidery thread for added color

How to join

We'll be hosting this VAWAA Online on Zoom. We'll send the link and details to join via email 1 day and again 1 hour before it begins.

About Debra

Debra is a Los Angeles based textile artist who has been fabric collaging and stitching for over 15 years. Prior to this, she ran a handbag and apparel line. For her, the concept of layers and transparency are symbolic of our being – she loves that she can find these qualities inherent in textile scraps. She believes we collect experiences throughout our lives. These experiences mold and change us; they sway our character. When all is said and done we remain the same person, however changed we may seem. Our integrity, our soul, our being that was birthed into this lifetime remains unchanged. Through stitching layers upon layers, she creates unity and celebrates life. She makes objects of color and beauty while thinking about what life means to her and what she has seen in the world.

Visit her artist page to learn more about her in-person VAWAA.

Reviews

"One of the best workshops I've attended in the past year. Very friendly vibe, easy to ask questions and share work with each other. Time was allotted wonderfully for both working and watching Debra teach. Very inspiring and learned so much!" - J Johnston

"Debra's art is wonderful. Love the layers, and detailed stitching! This technique is fascinating, meditative and fun. I see many possibilities, and am excited to continue exploring!" - Lynn Adamo

"It was wonderful to be in a community of creatives and use the power of your hand. I appreciate the openness of everyone and to be able to just have a wonderful time." - Lorenza

"I enjoyed the class very much. It was presented well, the teachers show and tell was helpful as well as her quick response to our questions." - Janet 

"Debra creates a nice classroom environment virtually." - Laura

"Debra is such a friendly and generous artist. I enjoy following her work and now her workshops are re-kindling my engagement in fiber art." - Deb

"After taking a break from hand sewing, this was the perfect way to ease my way back. I've taken several online classes with Debra and love her approach. Debra is a natural teacher, patient, kind and encouraging. I love what I made, and was able to complete a piece during class, which is a bonus. I will spend a little more time embellishing before posting, but I'm happy with the result, and I look forward to making many more... to use up my scraps!" - Nancy

"Really fun workshop. Great for loosening up your work" - Danielle

Browse other VAWAA Online Sessions

Learn more about VAWAA in-person mini apprenticeships

Subscribe to latest news and updates from around the world here