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Discover a Passion for Textiles with our classes, lectures and events.

Upcoming Classes & Events

Class Levels: 

These guidelines are meant to help you choose the perfect class for you. 

Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.

Concentration – The student will be invited to learn more about a certain subject and be expected to have had some experience with it or have taken a prior class. These classes will probably involve several sessions.
 
Saturation – Students are invited to delve deeply into the subject being taught. Instructors will expect students to be very familiar with the subject and will be teaching with the intent of advancing those skills.

 For all our classes be sure to bring your curiosity, a sense of playfulness and a willingness to explore!

If you aren't sure if you are ready for a class just email us and we are happy to help.



Textiles West Lecture Series

Each month Textiles West offers a unique discovery talk covering a unique area of Textile Arts. Join us to learn, share and contribute to the conversation. 

Learn to Sew

Classes for  teens and adults. Our learn to sew program will quickly have you sewing with confidence!


Upcoming events and Classes

  • Stitch Play

    • September 26, 2018
    • November 28, 2018
    • 3 sessions
    • Textiles West 6545 N.Academy Colorado Springs Co
    • 9
    Register

    Join Ruth Chandler as she teaches you a series of basic and advanced stitches using her book Modern Hand Stitching. You will start with simple stitches and build on those stitches to create more complex stitching.   Experience the freedom of stitching without boundaries as you play, experiment, and explore.  You will be creating a 'brag book' of stitching that will be both a beautiful piece of stitching artwork as well as an excellent reference resource.  

     Kit Fee: $30 included your base fabric so you are ready to stitch. 

     Supply list :Assorted threads and fibers, Ruth will have some to share and will discuss the different options. 

     Assorted needles, Ruth will have some to use the first class Thimble if you use one 

    Small sharp scissors 

     Reading glasses if needed 

     Additional lighting if needed 

     Needle threader if needed

     Optional:copy of the book "Modern Hand Stitching" by Ruth Chandler   

     members: $125
     non-members: $140


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  • Spinning Animal Fibers

    • October 04, 2018
    • October 25, 2018
    • 4 sessions
    • TWIL @ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829
    • 5
    Register

    Did you know you can spin more then just sheep’s wool using a spinning wheel or hand spindle? Come explore the joys of spinning mohair, angora, yak, alpaca, or silk. We will explore the nature of a variety of these fibers and how to spin them. Curious? Join us!
    This class takes place once a week over a 4 week period from 5:30-7:30pm
    Materials Fee: $20
    Student Supply list: Notebook, pencil,
    Class Level: Concentration – The student will be invited to learn more about a certain subject and be expected to have had some experience with it or have taken a prior class. These classes will probably involve several sessions. 
    Member: $100
    Non-member: $115


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  • Animal Portraits with Barb Beasley

    • October 19, 2018
    • 10:00 AM
    • October 21, 2018
    • 5:00 PM
    • 6545 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
    • 3
    Register
    Do you have a favorite photo of your pet you want to turn into a work of art? Award-winning quilter Barbara Yates Beasley can teach you a low-tech pattern design technique that, when combined with raw-edged appliqué, can turn any photograph into a fun and eye-catching quilt. This three day class will have you well on the way to creating your own work of art that you can then finish quilting at home or even leave un-stitched if you prefer.
    If pets are not your area of interest bring a photo of a flower or other object. Think Georgia O’Keeffe size flower.
    Please be aware that this needs to be your own photo or one that you have been given permission to use. It is NOT OK to grab your favorite photo from the internet. Those photos do belong to an artist and you need to ask permission before using them as inspiration.     
    This workshop is limited to 10 students to ensure each students gets plenty of private instruction with Barb.
    See Barbara's web site for more inspiration!     
    Prep Work: Before the class, pick a favorite photo of your animal. It should be clear and sharp with a good value range. The animal should fill the frame. If the eyes are an important part of the photo be sure you can actually see them. Keep it simple
    Have this enlarged to the size you would like to work with, but no more than 19” x 24”. The enlargement is best in color. You can use a B&W as long as you don’t loose detail in the shadows of the B&W image. Be sure to bring a color copy, any size if your enlargement is B&W. Enlargements can be done at Kinko’s, Staples, Office Max, Walgreens, Costco that type of store. Often you will have better luck getting a clear print if you bring a hi-res file to the store on a thumb drive.
    Materials Fee payable to teacher on the first day: $15        
    Supply List 
    • Pre-washed lightweight muslin, enough to use as a base
    • Assorted fabric scraps. Bring more then you think you need and in a variety of colors. Nothing over a fat quarter in size.
    • Lite Steam-a-Seam 2 fusible. Made by The Warm Company, please no substitutes
    • Your photo enlarged to the finished size of your quilt. No less than 11” x 17”. But no larger than 19” x 24”. See Prep Work.
    • 8” x 10” color copy of your photo REVERSED.
    • Sharp embroidery scissors, paper and/or fabric scissors
    • Design board or foam core to use as a design board. This should accommodate the size of your work.
    • Tweezers (optional)   
      
     Those of you who work quickly or have an image with less detail will want to bring finishing materials.
    • Batting
    • Backing fabric
    • Bernina 350 machines are available in the Thread lab for use or you may bring your own machine.
    Member: $375 Non-Member: $400
     
        






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  • The Farrow Dress

    • October 23, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, Co
    • 2
    Register

    "The Farrow Dress is a wardrobe staple in an elegant A-line shape with flattering diagonal seaming concealing inseam pockets, and a jewel neckline. It has both a sleeveless and bracelet sleeve-length version so it is versatile in several seasons. Gather loads of inspiration at #farrowdress on Instagram.
    Textiles West has sewing machines to use in class. Students may use their own machine if it is in good working order and student knows how to operate it.
    Students must download and print the PDF pattern from https://grainlinestudio.com/shop/women/dresses/farrow-dress-pdf-download/ and have their fabric cut out before class time. If student has questions about the PDF pattern, fabric choice, cutting out or fit, contact Cecelia at chasnlife@aol.com
    Student Supply List:Light to medium-weight fabrics that are suggested in the pattern - the yardage determined by size (all this information is included in the PDF pattern),
    -all-purpose thread to match
    -hook & eye closure,
    - sewing pins and scissors if you have them,
    - 1/2 yd 22 -25" wide fusible interfacing.
    Class Level:Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member Fee: $60
    Non-Member Fee: $70
    Instructor: Cecelia Harris Cecelia has also had a lifelong love of fabric and sewing. She creates most of her clothing and recently has enjoyed various ways of creating her own fabric – from direct painting to computer-created designs. Cecelia is also a calligrapher, commercial lettering artist and sometime font designer. She owned and operated Wordsworth where she created rubber stamp and scrapbook products and was also a lead designer for Cricut, a personalized cutting machine. She shares her Colorado home with her husband where she enjoys sewing, wine, and chocolate (although not at the same time). 


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  • Curious about Tapestry?

    • October 24, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • TWIL @ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs Co 80829
    • 4
    Register

    Tapestry, another form of weaving, can be complex and expensive.  It can also be simple and exciting.  This class will teach you methods that existed in Greek, Egyptian and Roman times.  You will leave the class knowing how to warp, create slits, lines, curves, joins and hatching.  All basic elements you will use in your piece. This class will prepares you to make your own art tapestry and ready to move on to more advanced tapestry classes. 

    Member: $75

    Non-member: $85

    Instructor: Mary Madison


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  • Indigo Shibori

    • October 24, 2018
    • November 17, 2018
    • 2 sessions
    • Academy Blvd and TWIL
    • 6
    • 2 registrants
    Register


     Explore the ancient art and pattern of indigo and shibori dyeing with a modern twist! In this one and a half day class, you will create a range of indigo fabrics to use in your art and garments.

    Acclaimed textile artist Ruth Chandler will teach you shibori pole dying, an ancient Japanese resist dye technique using poles wrapped with fabric and cord. You will also learn the skills to crease, fold, bind and stitch and knot your fabric creating gorgeous patterns and texture.

    The first day will be in the Textiles West North classroom learning the different types and styles of Shibori. You will be able to go home and use these techniques to create unique designs on your fabric. If you want to create garments, bring your pattern and fabric. Ruth can show you how to prep your pieces to create a one of a kind garment. T-shirts or ready made garments may also be used. Don’t forget, if you have a stained shirt etc. and still love it, this is a great way to give it a second life. These techniques take time so you will have a couple weeks to prep before we meet again.

    The second class, will be at TWIL @ Manitou Art Center. It will be a fun, messy day of wonderful creating. The reveal of the tied, stitched, or wrapped fabric is always exciting.

    Materials fee: $40.00 this includes dye, and all the equipment needed for the folding, stitching, and pole wrapping. 

    Supply List:

    Natural fabrics, (indigo will not dye synthetic fabrics). Cotton, silk, wool, and linen dye very well and have terrific results. Prepared for dying fabric is ideal, however, think outside the box and try fabrics that may give you different and fun results. Scraps are great, so are tone on tone fabrics. A blended fabric may dye in some places and not others, this is not bad, just different!

    Please wash your fabrics WITHOUT fabric softener before dying.

    Clothes and shoes that you do not mind getting dye on. You will get messy!

    Apron if you want to try and protect your clothes.

    member $125

    non member $140



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  • Fall and Other Holiday Gift Bags

    • October 25, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs
    • 3
    Register


    Sew a fall gift bag that is truly a gift in itself.  Not only will you go home with this lovely bag suitable for a hostess gift, bottle of wine or bath salts you will have all the tools you need to recreate this bag in many sizes and for all occasions.

    Materials Fee: $10.00 (cash) Cover material, lining material, felt for leaves, stiffener for bag and handles and printed instructions for making gift bags in many sizes and shapes.

    Student supply list: 

    • Microtex 80/12 or Top Stitch 80/12 sewing machine needles 
    • dark brown or black all-purpose sewing thread, 
    • sharp fabric scissors, 
    • seam ripper, pins, seam gauge and any other accessories that help you sew.
    • Optional- Task light for sewing area if desired, wonder clips, reading glasses if you need them.
    Textiles West has sewing machines to use in class. Students may use their own machine if it is in good working order and student knows how to operate it. Don't forget to bring cords, pedal and manual

    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.

    Member Price: $45

    Non-Member price: $55

    Instructor: Pam Harrison



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  • Fall and Other Holiday Gift Bags-evening class

    • October 25, 2018
    • 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs
    • 4
    Register


    Sew a fall gift bag that is truly a gift in itself.  Not only will you go home with this lovely bag suitable for a hostess gift, bottle of wine or bath salts you will have all the tools you need to recreate this bag in many sizes and for all occasions.

    Materials Fee: $10.00 (cash) Cover material, lining material, felt for leaves, stiffener for bag and handles and printed instructions for making gift bags in many sizes and shapes.

    Student supply list: 

    • Microtex 80/12 or Top Stitch 80/12 sewing machine needles 
    • dark brown or black all-purpose sewing thread, 
    • sharp fabric scissors, 
    • seam ripper, pins, seam gauge and any other accessories that help you sew.
    • Optional- Task light for sewing area if desired, wonder clips, reading glasses if you need them.
    Textiles West has sewing machines to use in class. Students may use their own machine if it is in good working order and student knows how to operate it. Don't forget to bring cords, pedal and manual

    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.

    Member Price: $45

    Non-Member price: $55

    Instructor: Pam Harrison



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  • Beginning Drop Spindle Spinning

    • October 27, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, Co
    • 5
    Register

    Find out if spinning a yarn is really for you and something to continue - try a hands on learning experience. Learn the difference between a top whorl and bottom whorl drop spindle. What is  Z spun versus S spun? and why should I care?  Or in the alternative do I really care? learn to make a leader string with the fiber you are using instead of using string. Have the opportunity to play with the instructors many Turkish spindles and a few drop spindles. Instructor will provide ideas for books and spindles Learn to make your own drop spindle. and is it really that easy? yes, yes it is. 
    Student supply list: Spindle
    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member: $35
    Non-member: $40
    Instructor: Lynnelle Peavy


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  • Slow Motion Knitting

    • October 28, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd
    • 6
    Register

    Sundays remind me of kicking back and enjoying the day in slow motion.  This class is learning beginning knitting.  We will kick back and enjoy 2 hours of learning beginning stitches: knit, purl and garter.  You will begin a quick and cute headband project. Oh, and let's not forget the most important...how to cast on and off. See, like I said slow motion Sunday.
    Student supply list:
    - knitting needles (preferably wood) any size but US 4, 5 or 6 is best and can be straight or connected
    -one skein of worsted weight any fiber content of yarn except do not bring the furry type.
    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member Price: $35
    Non-Member price: $40
    Instructor: Lynnelle Peavy


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  • Lecture: "Evolution of an Artist: The Craft of Tapestry"

    • November 03, 2018
    • 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
    • Textiles West 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs Co
    Register

     We are thrilled to welcome tapestry weaver David Johnson to share the stories of the development of the ideas and techniques he uses in his work.

    In this lecture he will describe the process of using soumak knots to achieve a painterly way of weaving tapestry. David will be bringing examples of his work to demonstrate the vast possibilities one can do with soumak knots.

    Join us for an invigorating and stimulating conversation about weaving and learn things you may have never known.

    This lecture is the beginning of a future weekend long workshop David will be giving at TWIL.*

    *details and dates TBD

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  • Thread Art Bowls

    • November 03, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Textiles West: 6545 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
    • 4
    Register

    Gather up all those little bits of thread, fabrics, yarn and lace that you have been collecting in your sewing room. Laurie will help you turn the cuttings from your studio floor into these beautiful and functional art bowls. 
    Student supply list: 2-3 gallon size bags of bits, fibers, yarns and fabric scraps, even those you no longer like but feel guilty about throwing them away!
    Laurie will have fabric and fibers kits available for $10 if you need one. 
    Member: $45 Non-member: $55
    Instructor: Laurie Longberry
    Why I sew
    I love things that have been touched by the human hand. I started sewing as a way to decorate my home and create clothing for my children. I have continued to sew as a form of self expression. I love to teach sewing to all ages for the same reasons. It is a great skill to have, and it is yet another way individuals can add their voice to making life better for all.


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  • Hand Painted Yarn: Indie Dyer Techniques

    • November 06, 2018
    • November 13, 2018
    • 2 sessions
    • TWIL @ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829
    • 6
    Register


    Love all the unique hand dyed yarns you see at yarn shops and online? In this class, you will learn how to create your own, using professional acid dyes and the popular hand-painting technique. Over the course of two sessions, we will explore several different techniques to create self-striping, variegated, speckled, and other effects. Come roll up your sleeves, play with color, and leave with several skeins of your very own hand-dyed yarns! As a bonus, we will also discuss how you can safely recreate these results in your own home kitchen.
    Materials Fee: $10 (plus extra if purchasing yarn in class)
    Student supply list: " 4 skeins of undyed protein (animal) fiber yarn. Examples are wool, alpaca, silk, camel, cashmere, mohair, or a combination. Blends are ok, but synthetics or plant fibers should total LESS than 25%. The dyes we will be using will ONLY work on protein fibers. A limited amount of yarn will be available for purchase in class from the instructor. A good source for undyed yarns is Knitpicks.com (search their ""bare"" collection). Any weight, style, or ply count is fine. Choose something you'd like to knit, weave, or crochet with! Feel free to bring in photos for color inspiration, and/ or a color wheel, too. Neither of those are mandatory.
    Class Level:Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member Price: $75
    Non-Member price: $85
    Instructor: Amy Kloster


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  • Curious about Weaving?

    • November 07, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • TWIL@ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO 80829
    • 3
    Register

    Curious about weaving but not ready to invest in your own equipment? This class is just right for experiencing the joy of weaving. With Mary Madison, you will learn the basics of weaving on a rigid heddle loom and at the end of the day take home your very own handwoven scarf. 

    Member: $75 

    Non-member: $85
    Instructor: Mary Madison


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  • Little Houses

    • November 07, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • 8
    Register


    These sweet little collage houses are fun and easy to create. Bring a photo of a house if you need but it is so much more fun to create from your imagination. 

    The fabric in the kits have lots of texture and color to fit any style.  The pieces are mounted onto a small canvas but can be quilted if you would rather.

     Materials fee $25 : Includes background fabric, fabrics for the houses, threads, needles, and canvas

     Supplies to bring

    • Thimble if you use one
    • Glasses if needed

    $45 members

    55 non-members

    Instructor: Ruth Chandler



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  • Intro to Spinning

    • November 08, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO
    • 5
    Register

    Have you ever wondered how yarn is made or how a spinning wheel works? This class is for you! You will learn how to create a continuous yarn using a spinning wheel as well as fiber preparation.   If you have a spinning wheel but need to refresh you spinning skills please join use too. Wheels will be available for use at the class.
    Student Supply List:  Notebook for notes and something to write with.
    Material Fee:  $20, includes equipment rental
    Class Level:  Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member:$45
    Non-member: $55
    Instructor: Betsy Wintermute


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  • Recipes from Nature: Seasonal Produce

    • November 10, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • TWIL @ MAC 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO
    • 7
    Register


    Nature will thank you!  Explore the abundant range of colors waiting to be extracted from vegetables, berries and plants from your garden and your kitchen! This workshop is designed to expand your understanding of food not just as sustenance, nor cut flowers for simply decoration - but also as a beautiful source of color, that also can provide healing properties.

    In this workshop we will focus on Seasonal Produce and staples from our pantry!  Berries, Black Beans, Onion Skins and more....  Students will work with pre-mordanted, fabrics, yarns, and roving. Hand painting on paper and fabric. Experimenting with adjusting colors using mordants. The history, purpose and art of natural dyeing will be presented throughout the workshop. Sustainability and eco-consciousness is the thread throughout this series of workshops.

    By the end of the workshop, you will leave with a more thorough knowledge of preparing natural dyestuff, processing your yields and hopefully being inspired and amazed by what gifts nature truly provides us!

    Materials Fee:$20.00

    Student supply list:

    • Mask, Gloves, 
    • (2) 16oz mason jars, 
    • yellow and red onions skins

    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.

    Member Price: $85

    Non-Member price: $95

    Instructor Susan Haldeman


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  • Zippers ... are not really that intimidating!

    • November 13, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs Co
    • 4
    Register
    How many ways are there to apply a zipper?  Centered, lapped, invisible, hand picked, hand picked and embellished, zippers in knits ... these are some of the zipper applications we will cover in this class. (We will do more if time permits.)  Zippers aren't really that scary if you have the right tools and use the correct methods.
    Materials Fee:$5 for samples fabric and specialty notions
    Student Supply List: "Sewing machine in good working order, including power cord, general-purpose presser foot, zipper foot, invisible zipper foot if you have one, sewing machine manual, (Bernina machines are available at Textiles West if you do not want to bring a machine, or if you do not own a machine)
    all-purpose sewing thread (color is unimportant),
    5 polyester, all-purpose zippers (length is unimportant, 7"" is sufficient; I purchased 7-inch zippers at Wal-Mart for $1.00 each),
    1 invisible zipper (length is unimportant), 
    fabric scissors,
    seam ripper,
    optional - page protectors for finished samples and instructions, task light for sewing area if desired, surge protector/power cord, reading glasses if you need them"
    Class Level:Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member Fee: $45
    Non-Member Fee: $55
    Instructor: Bonnie Gingerich



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  • Curious about Tapestry?

    • November 14, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs
    • 4
    Register

    Tapestry, another form of weaving, can be complex and expensive.  It can also be simple and exciting.  This class will teach you methods that existed in Greek, Egyptian and Roman times.  You will leave the class knowing how to warp, create slits, lines, curves, joins and hatching.  All basic elements you will use in your piece. This class will prepares you to make your own art tapestry and ready to move on to more advanced tapestry classes. 

    Member: $75

    Non-member: $85

    Instructor: Mary Madison


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  • Spindle Spinning

    • November 15, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO
    • 6
    Register

    Did you know that almost every culture in the world figured out how to creat yarn long before the invention of a spinning wheel? They did it using a handspindle. Come explore the use of these fascinating tools.
    Student Supply List:  Notebook and pen/pencil
    Material Fee:  $20, includes equipment rental
    Class Level:  Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member: $35
    Non-Member: $45


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  • The Blackwood Cardigan

    • November 16, 2018
    • 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, Co
    • 5
    Register
    One can never have too many cardigans, and the Blackwood Cardigan is a perfect shape. It’s designed for knit fabric for easy wearing. This pattern can be constructed entirely on a regular sewing machine, but we will demonstrate some serger options in class. To see all the possibilities, check out #blackwoodcardigan on Instagram.
    Students must download and print the PDF pattern from https://helenscloset.ca/product/blackwood-cardigan-pdf-pattern/ and have their fabric cut out before class time. If student has questions about fabric, cutting out or fit, contact Cecelia at chasnlife@aol.com.
    Textiles West has sewing machines to use in class. Students may use their own machine if it is in good working order and student knows how to operate it.
    Student supply list:
    2 yds of medium weight knit (see pattern for amount of stretch required),
    all-purpose thread to match,
    pins
    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member: $60
    Non-Member: $70
    Instructor: Cecelia Harris Bio: Why I Sew When I think of all the reasons I sew – saving money, getting a good fit, not being limited to what’s in the store, being conscious of how my clothing is produced – the reason above all is that I can be unique. I know that when I choose my own pattern and pair it with a fabric, I will be creating a garment that no one else has. I can also create home goods that are as individual as I am. In a day and age where uniformity is difficult to avoid, creating my own sewn garments is a way to express my voice.



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  • Woodland Fox Pillow

    • November 17, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Thread Lab 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, CO
    • 8
    Register

    Join Instructor Laurie Longberry as we learn some fun sewing skills in this foxy little project that is sure to delight. In this class students will learn how to free edge appliqué, hand and machine stitch including how to close their pillows using an invisible stitch technique. Ages 14+
    Material Fee: $5  to cover stuffing, adhesive and thread
    Class Level:  Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member: $45
    Non-Member: $55
    Instructor: Laurie Longberry

    Why I sew:

    I love things that have been touched by the human hand. I started sewing as a way to decorate my home and create clothing for my children. I have continued to sew as a form of self expression. I love to teach sewing to all ages for the same reasons. It is a great skill to have, and it is yet another way individuals can add their voice to making life better for all.



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  • Alternative Embroidery

    • November 19, 2018
    • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
    • TWIL @ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, Co
    • 15
    Register

    In this workshop, students will first learn various types of stitches and the best times to implement such stitches on paper. Then, the class will learn ways in which to treat and protect paper and alternative material for embroidery, as well as the best way in which to conduct the actual stitching. If time allows, students will discuss and experiment with how to use this skill to create and enhance collages. Please bring a collection of photographs, vintage paper, scrapbook paper, or anything you have that you would love to collage with.
    Materials Fee: $10 for additional stabilizing materials
    Student supply list:A collection of papers (old photographs, letters, maps, magazines, old books, etc)
    12"x12" piece of fabric for practice
    A variety of sizes of needles
    Various types of thread (embroidery floss, sewing thread, yarn, etc)
    Fusible interfacing (Pellon Fusible Interfacing works well)
    Scissors
    Class Level:Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member Price: $45
    Non-Member price: $55
    Instructor: Alyssa Karpa


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  • Beginning Drop Spindle Spinning

    • November 24, 2018
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, Co
    • 6
    Register

    Find out if spinning a yarn is really for you and something to continue - try a hands on learning experience. Learn the difference between a top whorl and bottom whorl drop spindle. What is  Z spun versus S spun? and why should I care?  Or in the alternative do I really care? learn to make a leader string with the fiber you are using instead of using string. Have the opportunity to play with the instructors many Turkish spindles and a few drop spindles. Instructor will provide ideas for books and spindles Learn to make your own drop spindle. and is it really that easy? yes, yes it is. 
    Student supply list: Spindle
    Class Level: Fascination – These classes will introduce you to a new skill, concept or technique and are open to all levels. The student may, however, be required to have a basic skill or have taken a certification class. For example, for a flat-pattern drafting class one need not know anything about flat-pattern drafting but should have a basic understanding of the sewing machine. Any prerequisites will be listed in the class description.
    Member: $35
    Non-member: $40
    Instructor: Lynnelle Peavy


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  • Hand Stitched Leather Clutch

    • November 24, 2018
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Textiles West 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, Co 80918
    • 5
    Register

     Wow your friends with this stunning hand-stitched leather clutch perfect for your phone, wallet and keys. Students will learn double-needle sewing technique that results in strong construction and durability. No leather or sewing experience necessary.  

    Materials Fee:
    $55  Includes leather, thread, needles and shared leather tools. You will have your choice of several leather colors and textures.  
    Student supply list: none
    Class Level: fascination
    Member Price: $65
    Non-Member price: $70
    Teacher: Cecelia Harris