Upcoming events and Classes

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• The Felted River Project

  • Start
    April 20, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • End
    October 03, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

   

  The Felted River Project

  Help us create a community art installation that pairs our region's love of nature and your hope for tomorrow.

  Felted wool is the oldest fabric created by humans. Isn't that cool? The process is easy and clean fun so it is great to do with just about any age or ability level.
  
  We invite you to create a felted rock (or many rocks) for our community river celebrating our love of nature and the beautiful community of the Pikes Peak Region. 
  
  Write a message, wish, dream or hope on your rock. Then gather your fibers and a rock and follow our video directions to create a felted rock.
  
  What? you don't happen to have wool fiber handy? 
  
  We can help with that....we have a lot!
  
  Because we are still affected by COVID-19 we have set up a system for you to RSVP to participate in the project. After you register we will contact you with the dates and times you may pick up fibers at our North Academy location (meeting all social distance requirements)  and how many people you need fiber for.
  
  You supply your own rock. We suggest nothing larger than 6" in any direction.
  
  Want to make it an educational art opportunity? You can read more here or here! And, of course on Wikipedia. Maybe the kids can make a mini Yurt!
  
  How about gift making? Mother's day is coming up. You can use the exact same process to felt soap. Felt up some special handmade soap from your local soap maker and you have a wonderful eco-friendly gift. 
  

  
  

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• Fun in the Garden:Bundle Dyeing and Solar Printing

  • When
    August 19, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Dye Garden
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  I

  Instructor: Melody Williams

  Class Description: Textiles West’s Dye Garden is blooming and it’s harvest time! Enjoy spending time face to face with friends and new friends outside in our garden. This workshop combines two exciting processes in one fun day. 

  Solar Printing: Harness the power of the sun and the garden into some incredible solar printed works of art. Arrange your harvest and other small objects or materials on paper or fabric and let the sun work its magic. 

  Bundle Dyeing: Harvest directly from the garden and have fun experimenting with bundle dyeing, a direct press method for creating beautiful patterns and subtle shades. 

  Families and other groups welcome. 

  Note: For your safety, we follow Flying Pig Farm’s COVID-19 safety measures. Masks are required for each participant and must be worn while working within 6 feet of other participants. Maximum of 10 students. You may bring your own clean/freshly launders garden gloves (more are available at the garden). 

   Location: Flying Pig Farm Keithly Rd Manitou Springs CO

  Materials fee: $25

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

  Class Level: Fascination, all levels welcome

  Member Price: $45

  Non-Member Price: $55

  
  

   

  Instructor Bio: Melody Williams is an arts educator, researcher, and fiber artist from Chicago, Illinois. A graduate of School of the Art Institute of Chicago (BFA 2007, MAAE 2020), they participated in community-level arts programs across the city in teaching and youth leadership. Melody is passionate about carbon emissions elimination, zero-waste practices, and climate justice for garment workers; and as a fiber artist they focus on mending practices, materials reuse, fashion construction, and printmedia for fibers.

  
  

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    August 22, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 

  
  

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• Intro to Spinning

  • When
    August 25, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  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

  Location:  Textiles West North 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

    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

   

  
  

    Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• The Wine Series: Sip and Sew

  • When
    August 28, 2020
  •  
    5:30 PM - 8:30 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  
  

  Do you love learning new things?

  Is the learning experience even more fun with friends?

  AND to top it all off, what if there was wine involved?

  Join us for the Textiles West Wine Series where we explore new skills among friends while sharing a glass.

  We will meet the 4th Friday of every month for this fun event. Put it on your calendar and gather your friends for a great night out. The parties (oops, learning times) will be hosted by our amazing Textiles West teachers.

  August 28, 2020 we will be meeting to make waxed cotton lunch bags.

  No experience necessary...we mean it! 

   Location: TWN 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  5:30 – 8:30pm, once a month.  Come over right after work and there will be plentiful snacks

  
  

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• Free Motion Stitch Basics

  • When
    August 29, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West North 6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs, co
  • Spaces left
    2

  Register

  

  Instructor:  Liz Kettle

  Description:

  Once you go free motion you never go back…

  Drop those feed dogs and discover just how much fun free motion stitching is!  Drawing with your needle is easy once you learn the tools that make your stitching easier.  A great class for beginners as well as experienced sewists.

  
  

  Material fee $15 includes fabrics, stabilizers and thread

  
  

  We have Bernina 350series machines in class for you to use but you are welcome to bring your own machine. Just make sure it has the ability to drop or cover the feed dogs (teeth) and bring a free motion darning or quilting foot.  Be sure to bring all your power cords and your manual if you aren’t familiar with free motion stitching on your machine.

  
  

  Location:  Textiles West North, 6545 N. Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO

  Number of hours for class: 3 hours

  Class Level: Fascination, beginning class

  
  

  
  

  Member Price:  $45

  Non-Member Price:  $55

  
  

  Instructor Bio: Why I Sew:

  I have been intrigued with stitching since I was a child. I have never lost the feeling that something magical happens when you combine fabric and stitch. There are just so many possibilities….will this fabric want to be a bag, a journal cover, or a skirt or become part of a special story in collage? Fabric is such a malleable material. It can be draped, sculpted, textured or smooth. Stitching is so incredibly satisfying….why would anyone not sew?

   

  
  

  
  

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• Inkle Weaving

  • When
    September 01, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  Have you ever wondered how bands of fabric for belts, guitar straps, purses or wall hangings are made? Come explore the world of Warp-faced Band Weaving. You will learn how to read an Inkle Weaving draft, warp an Inkle loom and weave a piece of warp faced fabric.

  Student Supply List:  Students should bring notebook and pen for writing notes.

  Material Fee: $20, includes equipment rental

  Location: Textiles West North 6525 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

  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

  
  

  Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

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• Dip and dye silk scarves and scruchies

  • When
    September 04, 2020
  •  
    11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    TWIL
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  

  Instructor: Julia Bannerot

  Discover quick and fun dyeing using acid dyes and silk scarf blanks. In this introductory workshop with Julia Bannerot you will create multiple silk scarves and fabric samples we can turn into scrunchies. Learn some basic shibori folding and wrapping techniques to create beautiful patterns. Into the dye pot they go and there the magic happens. No experience necessary.

  Materials fee:  $25includes 2 silk scarves and smaller fabrics to create samples. Dye, equipment and tools. Additional scarves will be available for purchase.

  Supply list: just bring an experimental attitude, wear dye appropriate clothing and any prewashed silk fabric

  Location: TWIL @ Manitou Art Center 513 Manitou Ave Manitou Springs, CO

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

  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 Bio:

  Julia Bannerot is a multidisciplinary artist, however she works mostly with clay and fiber. Her work explores themes of interconnection, vulnerability, and ambiguity. She grew up in Colorado Springs and received a BA in studio ceramics from the University of Northern Colorado in 2018.

  
  

  Why I: 

  I dye because I love to experiment and I get so excited for the reveal. I sew because I enjoy how meditative it is. I create because it's the method through which I express myself, and when I get impassioned I feel an urge to create something. 

  
  

  
  

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• Module 1- Shirt #1 from 100 Acts of Sewing

  • When
    September 05, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 3:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    5

  Register

  

  Module #1 of the 6 module garment collection - each class is a stand alone class. Take the series to create a capsule wardrobe that fits perfectly! 

  If you’ve been thinking about sewing your own clothes, this is the perfect beginning class. This breezy top is perfect for warm weather or layering in cooler weather. You’ll be whipping up several of these in no time. Choose a soft cotton, linen or rayon with a nice drape – avoid cottons made for quilting as they will be a little stiff. If student has never sewn before, our Sewing 101 class is a prerequisite. We will be cutting out and constructing the garment in class. This pattern can be purchased online from several places including www.100actsofsewing.com or you can pick it up at Fancy Tiger in Denver, 59 N. Broadway.

  Student supply list: the Shirt 1 pattern from 100 Acts of Sewing,

  2 yards of fabric that has been pre-washed,

  all-purpose thread to match,

  pins, fabric scissors

  Location: TWN 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  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: $60

  Non-Member Price: $70

  Instructor: Cecelia Harris

  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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• 3D Weaving

  • When
    September 07, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 6:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  3D weaving is just that. It is weaving in 3 dimensions by putting a warp on a container from cardboard box to round bottle. Students will learn how to warp their container and then weave using a variety of hand manipulated weaving techniques. This is an ideal project to use left over yarn on and to recycle one of those small boxes that come in the mail. Students need no weaving experience.

  Student supply list:

  • Small cardboard box (ie. 6"x6"x6"),
  • heavy fork,
  • a variety of yarns you would like to use up,
  • scissors,
  • notebook and pencil for notes.

  Location: Textiles West  6545 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  Number of hours for class: 8 hrs, 2 hrs/4 wks 9/7, 9/14, 9/21, 9/28

  Class Level Beginners welcome

  Member Price: $100

  Non-Member Price: $115

  
  

  Instructor Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

  
  

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• Layered and Stitched: Explorations in Collage

  • Start
    September 12, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • End
    September 13, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  

  Class Description:  Layered and Stitched 

  Collages tell the wonderful stories of us. We take bits of our history, the minutia of our daily lives, snips of memories, moments in time and lay them out to tell our story. We will use fabric, images, paper, stitch and our hearts to tell our unique story. 

  In this class, you will create a standing accordion book or a fabric book. You are welcome to create a wall piece if you prefer. We will begin by learning some basic design and composition skills and discuss the use of symbols and imagery to help tell our personal story. I will share with you my tools for overcoming the worry of where to start. You will create 3 or 4 beautiful mixed media collages that make up your book…share your history…tell your story. 

  We will explore image transfer techniques (including one developed by Liz), learn how to combine fabric, paper and other textures into the luscious layers of an intricate collage. We will investigate different ways to attach the bits and pieces of our history.  Stitching and embellishments are important to telling our personal story and a whole lot of fun! I have a plethora of embellishing techniques to share with you to help make your story come alive.
  

  Materials fee: $20

  Student supply list:

  Theme: The most critical starting point for your book is your theme. Your theme can be a person, place, thing or idea, emotion, color.  

  Fabrics:  Bring a grocery bag full of any fabrics that speak to your theme. There are no rules on the type of fabric you should bring. Cotton, silk, satin, vinyl, drapery, polyester, upholstery, leather, denim, vintage clothing, organza, lace, lutradur…can all be considered! The more variety you have the better BUT do not bring more than will fit in a paper grocery bag.

  For the accordion book…If you want to use the same fabric as the base on every page you will need about ½ yard

  Thread: A small assortment of decorative and/or utility threads. They should go with your theme as well as your colors.

  Stabilizers: light weight tear away stabilizer like Stitch-N-Tear

  If you want to make an accordion book: 1 yard of a heavy duty stabilizer like Peltex 72 or Fast 2 fuse. (available for purchase)

  Basic Sewing Kit: scissors, rotary cutter, small cutting mat, (if you want your own) hand-sewing needles, thimble, whatever you rely on for general sewing tasks.

  B  we have machines for class use but if you want to bring yours, be sure it is in good working order with all of your feet and attachments. Bring an assortment of sewing machine needles. Be sure to include a size 90 embroidery needle.

  Images: We will be exploring image transfers. I will bring a wide variety of images to play with. Please bring images you want to use on your laptop computer or on a flash drive. If you are using original photos please scan them first if you can.

  
  

  OPTIONAL SUPPLIES:

  Total embellishments should not be more than a grocery bag full:

  Embellishments: There are no rules on embellishing: ribbons, vintage spoons, tree branches, old keys, beads, buttons, silk flowers, rick-rack, feathers, metal washers, bottle caps, rulers, toys, leaves, small stones…you get the point. Choose anything that speaks to your theme or anything that just seems interesting. Consider yourself a magpie gathering up treasures for your nest. 

  Paper: Ephemera, scrapbook papers, chocolate wrappers, tissue paper, art papers…same as with the fabrics bring what seems like it might go with your theme or simply says pick me!

  Rubber Stamps and stamp pads: Images that relate to your theme. The best stamps for using on fabrics are fairly simple in design and deeply etched
  

  Location: TWN 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  Number of hours for class: 12hrs   2 days 10-5

  Min number of students:  3

  Max number of students: 8

  Class Level: Fascination

  Member Price:  $150

  Non-Member Price: $170

  Instructor: Liz Kettle

  Instructor Bio:

  Why I Sew:

  I have been intrigued with stitching since I was a child. I have never lost the feeling that something magical happens when you combine fabric and stitch. There are just so many possibilities….will this fabric want to be a bag, a journal cover, or a skirt or become part of a special story in collage? Fabric is such a malleable material. It can be draped, sculpted, textured or smooth. Stitching is so incredibly satisfying….why would anyone not sew?

  
  

  
  

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• Intro to Spinning

  • When
    September 15, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  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

  Location:  Textiles West North 6545 N. Academy Blvd Colorado Springs

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

    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

   

  
  

    Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    September 19, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 
  

  
  

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• Making Braids - Peruvian Sling Braids

  • When
    September 22, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  Braiding is fascinating! We are not talking little three strand braids here but 8, 16, and 32 strand braids. This class explores how to create Peruvian sling braids using cotton cords and simple forms to help manage the cords. Students will learn how to read patterns and create them. No experience is necessary for this class.

  Materials fee: $5 to cover braiding form and cotton cord used in class.

  Student supply list:

  scissors,

  notebook and pencil

  Location: Textiles West North

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

  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 Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Alternative Processes with Fiber Reactive Dyes (Ice Dyeing, Low Immersion & Shibori)

  • Start
    September 25, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • End
    September 26, 2020
  •  
    (MDT)
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Textiles West Innovation Lab
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  
  

  Instructor: Julia Bannerot

  Class Description: In this two-day class, students will learn about fiber reactive dyes and how to use them in a couple unique processes referred to as ice dyeing, low-immersion dyeing and a couple different shibori techniques. And if the weather is right, we'll also be able to do some snow dyeing! The first day, we will dye all of our fabric and let them process over night, so the second day we can open them up and wash them out for an incredible reveal.

  Students will learn how to use powdered fiber reactive dyes, soda ash, and water to create one-of-a-kind dyed fabric in three different methods, with completely different results!

  Materials fee: $25 for fiber reactive dyes and fabrics

  Student supply list:

  Dust mask

  mason jars with lids or plastic containers with sealing lids (make sure they don't leak)

  *not required: students can bring some of their own pre-washed natural fabrics and have more to experiment with in class

  Location: TWIL @ Mantiou Art Center 513 Mantiou Ave Manitou Springs, CO

  Number of hours for class: 5 hrs, 2 days (3 hrs day 1 and 2 hrs day 2)

  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 Bio:  Julia Bannerot is a multidisciplinary artist, however she works primarily with clay and fiber. Her work explores themes of interconnection, vulnerability, and ambiguity. She references the human experience and natural systems to invite moments of reflection and challenge perceptions. Julia graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Studio Art, and an emphasis in ceramics in 2018.

  
  

  
  

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• The Wine Series: Birds on a Stick

  • When
    September 25, 2020
  •  
    5:00 PM - 8:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West North 6545 N. Academy blvd Colorado Springs Co
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  
  

  Bird on a Stick

  Do you love learning new things? Is the learning experience even more fun with friends? AND to top it all off, what if there was wine involved? Introducing, the Textiles West Wine Series where we explore new skills among friends while sharing a glass. We will meet the 4th Friday of every month for this fun event. Put it on your calendar and gather your friends for a great night out. The parties (oops, learning times) will alternate between our two locations and will be hosted by the different emphases of Textiles West – sewing, surface design, weaving and more! Check out the particulars of each night as the date gets closer.

   

   5:00 – 8:00pm, once a month.  Come right in after work and there will be snacks

  
  

  
  

  
  

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• Mabel Skirt: Knit Skirt from Colette Patterns - Class #2 for Module #1

  • When
    October 03, 2020
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West North
  • Spaces left
    6

  Register

  

  Instructor: Cecelia Harris

  Class Description: Make this simple skirt as short as you dare! This basic skirt is constructed from a stable knit and has several variations. Use it as one of your ‘bottoms’ in Module 1, working your way toward a Capsule Wardrobe. The pattern is the Mabel Skirt from Colette Patterns. Look for some fun examples on Instagram with #mabelskirt. The student will learn how to sew knits on a regular sewing machine. Download the PDF pattern at www.colettepatterns.com and watch our own tutorial on how to print out and tape together your pattern. Students will cut out their fabric prior to class. Cecelia will be available to talk with you about fabric selection.

  Student supply list:

  Mabel PDF pattern, fabric and thread to match. Optional buttons.

  Location: Textiles West North 6545 N Academy Blvd (sewing and hand arts)

  Number of hours for class: 3 hours

  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 Bio: I've always been interested in anything creative, so I've dabbled in writing and art. I also had a career as a lettering designer with my company, Wordsworth, where I designed product for rubber stampers and scrapbookers. I come from a long line of sewists, although my mother and grandmother wouldn't have used such a fancy term. They made clothes and pillows and curtains because that was what needed to be done, but make no mistake, they were being creative as they performed these necessary tasks. My mom taught me the basics but I was mostly self-taught for a number of years. When I took my first tailoring class, I couldn't believe how much I learned and wished I could have taken classes much earlier on. I love teaching, too. It's very fulfilling to see a student wear with pride a garment they've made. 

  
  

  I live in Colorado Springs with my husband where I spend most of my time in my sewing studio - my happy place. 

  
  

  
  

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• Inkle Weaving

  • When
    October 05, 2020
  •  
    4:00 PM - 7:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West
  • Spaces left
    4

  Registration is closed

  

  Instructor: Betsy Wintermute

  Have you ever wondered how bands of fabric for belts, guitar straps, purses or wall hangings are made? Come explore the world of Warp-faced Band Weaving. You will learn how to read an Inkle Weaving draft, warp an Inkle loom and weave a piece of warp faced fabric.

  Student Supply List:  Students should bring notebook and pen for writing notes.

  Material Fee: $20, includes equipment rental

  Location: Textiles West North 6525 N Academy Blvd Colorado Springs CO

  Number of hours for class: 3 hrs

  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

  
  

  Bio: Betsy started her exploration of spinning at the Southwest School of Art in San Antonio, TX in 1981 in a wheel spinning class taught by Doris Glenn. By then end of the 6 week class she had purchased her first spinning wheel. In the years since Betsy has share spinning with both adults and children and has studied with spinners across the country including Rita Buchannan, Ed Franquemont and Joanne Ruane. She has expanded her knowledge to include a variety of forms of spindle spinning and how to spin a vast array of fibers from both animals and plants. The learning continues.

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    October 16, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MDT)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    November 21, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MST)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    December 18, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MST)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 

  
  

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• Sewcial Hour

  • When
    December 19, 2020
  •  
    10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (MST)
  • Location
    Textiles West

  Register

  
  

  Do you love to sew but sometimes find yourself a little lonely holed away in your sewing nook?

  Come spend a day at Textiles West North with others who share your passion. At this location, we have large tables on which to spread out, a cutting area with cutting mats and a large ironing center. We also have Bernina sewing machines and sergers for your use if you don’t want to bring your own.

  Maybe you just have some hand sewing to do – that’s great too!

  This is not a teaching time but there may be a short talk with fun information at the lunch hour. Everyone will be sewing their own projects but sewists are always willing to share their expertise.

  We’ll be open from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. Bring a lunch and come prepared for a day of fun with your peeps!

  This is a free event but donations are always appreciate. 

  
  

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• Layers of Meaning ~ On-Line

  • When
    December 31, 2020
  •  
    (MST)
  • Location
    On-Line
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Layering is the magical component that brings a collage to life, adds depth, emotion and allows it to tell our story. However, layering does not always come easily.

  In this class we will explore the concepts of layering: both visual layers and physical layers. We will have a crash course in collage design and composition with a focus on exactly what makes a great collage.

  There are so many exciting techniques to use in mixed-media collages and we will learn and play with quite a few. Techniques will include image transfer and direct printing from your printer, staining fabrics, ideas for transparent layers, and stitch layers

  This class is textile based and will include stitching but artists in all mediums are welcome to play, explore and create with us.

  Supplies:

  Start with a notebook and whatever you have in the craft box or studio; fabric scraps, paper, etc. You will already have many of the things you need and as you view lessons you can choose to purchase additional items you want to try.

  
  

  
  

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• Boro: The Art of Tattered Rags ~ On-Line

  • When
    December 31, 2020
  •  
    (MST)
  • Location
    On-Line

  Register

  
  

  Boro is the Japanese word for tattered rags. From the 1600’s and even into the early 1900’s the Japanese farmers of the northern region of Honshu used this technique to repair and patch their clothes. Originally made from hemp the farmers were gradually able to get their hands on bits of cotton and finally silk. Every little scrap was precious and washed and saved until it was used to give their clothes longevity. These items of clothing were so used and worn and yet have such strength that you can’t help but admire them.

  So gather up your bits of worn and beautiful fabric and let’s create a wall hanging that will speak of carefully preserved memories. A time when fabric was precious and hard to find and every little bit was worth saving.

  the fabric suggestions below are for a traditional Japanese look, you may of course use any fabrics you have on hand.

  Ruth has a fabulous  kit that you can purchase here.

  Supply List-

  · 2- 20x26 pieces of indigo fabric

  · 1-20x26 piece of cotton batting (I have been using black batting but natural is fine)

  · Fabric bits for “patches”

  · Thread, fibers, pearl cotton, floss, to match patches fabric

  · Needles, (chenille sizes 18-24 and embroidery)

  · Thimble

  · Reading glasses if needed

  · Large scissors for cutting patches

  · Small scissors for trimming thread

  · Pins for securing patches

  
  

  
  

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• Immersion dyeing with Natural Dyes - On-Line

  • When
    December 31, 2020
  •  
    (MST)
  • Location
    On-Line

  Register

  

  Instructor: Melanie Audet

  This class teaches students the fundamentals of using natural plants and natural plant extracts to color fabric.  The students will learn how to mordant fabric,  and use natural dye powders such as cutch, kamala and parrot tree to create beautifully colored fabric.  We will be dyeing various fabrics to see how the color looks on different types of fabric. 

  Student supply list:

  • Apron
  • Mask
  • Gloves
  • Notebook
  • Card stock (to display samples)
  • stapler/staples
  • Sharpie Marker
  • label stickers (optional)
  • hole punch (optional)
  • Pinking shears (optional)(to make samples look pretty) 
  • Further necessary equipment is reviewed in the first lesson
    
  • If making a sample booklet, different cellulose and protein fabrics, cut into 2"x5" pieces.  Otherwise, fabric of your choice, one cellulose (cotton, bamboo, hemp, rayon) and one protein.
  • Natural dyes of your choice. You can purchase a kit from my website Twig and Berry Dyes.com* or if you would like or you can purchase dyes from various sources, such as Maiwa, Botanical Colors, Cupid Falls Farms, or The Yarn Tree to name a few.  

   Purchase the kit  

  *The kit includes a 1oz package of an extract, a 2oz package of regular dye powder and tannin, and a 6 oz package of non-ferric Aluminum Sulfate all for $25.00.  

  Instructor Bio:  Melanie Audet is originally from the Detroit area of Michigan.  She received a BA from Albion College and a  BFA from the Oregon College of Art and Craft, where she learned how to use synthetic dyes.  She has continued her education by learning the art of natural dyes. She is the owner and proprietor of Melanie Audet Limited Editions and Twig and Berry Dyes.   Her love for textiles is more of a compulsion and she loves to share this passion with others.

  
  

  
  

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• Dirty Dyeing with Fiber Reactive Dyes - On-Line

  • When
    December 31, 2020
  •  
    (MST)
  • Location
    On-Line

  Register

  

  Get down and dirty with this immersion dyeing class, a bit looser in approach than creating reproduceable colors.  Students will learn the basics of how to safely color fabric using a dye bath and fiber reactive dyes, specifically procion mx dyes. It is a good introduction to dye safety and the process of immersion dyeing with no mathematical equations to create a reproduceable color. Color is free and loose and open to interpretation.   Regardless of your project, this class is a foundational class and a good introduction to the world of dyeing.   

  Student supply list:

  • Apron
  • Mask
  • Gloves
  • Notebook
  • procion mx dyes, purchased on line from Dharma Trading Co., Pro Chemical and Dye, Dick Blick  or from you local art store.
  • Fabric, either cellulose (cottons, rayons, bamboos etc) or silks
    
  • Sharpie Marker
  • label stickers (optional)
  • Pinking shears (optional)
  • Equipment necessary for this class is reviewed in the first lesson.  
    

  Instructor: Melanie Audet

  Instructor Bio:  Melanie Audet is originally from the Detroit area of Michigan.  She received a BA from Albion College and a  BFA from the Oregon College of Art and Craft, where she learned how to use synthetic dyes.  She has continued her education by learning the art of natural dyes. She is the owner and proprietor of Melanie Audet Limited Editions and Twig and Berry Dyes.   Her love for textiles is more of a compulsion and she loves to share this passion with others.

  
  

  
  

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