The aim of this course is to make one realistic and one stylised silk camellia corsage with leaves, using traditional flower-making tools together with Anne’s own techniques that she has developed over years of making. The workshop will begin by talking through her work process and will be illustrated with flower and hat samples.
During the course you will use a variety of fabrics and learn skills that include:
Observing the construction of a camellia and ways to interpret
Preparing and stiffening silk
Cutting out from templates
Blending colour with dyes, and exploring mark-making using a variety of brushes
Bonding layers of silk
Making leaves and creating a wax effect
Binding stems with silk
Attaching a brooch pin
The course is suitable for all levels including beginners. All that is required is a basic knowledge of sewing and some patience.Throughout the course, you will be shown how to construct flowers from deconstruction of the real thing learning several techniques. Each stage will be demonstrated with samples. You will be encouraged to experiment with dyes and advice on painting techniques with Procion dyes will be at hand to create the colours you want.
Your tutor will help you through the different processes with plenty of individual attention. You will gain skills that you can use after the course has ended, to explore the craft and develop your own personal way of recreating many other flowers. We will review all the techniques involved and you will be given information on suppliers of silk, tools and materials used, and a tutorial with templates. By observing real flowers we can learn so much about their relationship with pollinating insects and this increases our connection with nature.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Included
- On this course the tutor will supply all of the materials used on the course.
What students need to bring
- Please bring as sewing kit containing really sharp pointed scissors, sewing needles and small wire cutters.
- An apron to protect your clothes and wearing covered footwear is essential.
Available to buy
- Available from shop:
- Brushes, silk fabric, needles and pins, sketchbook
- Available from tutor:
- Tools, wires, dyes, special flower glue and silk will be available to buy from the tutor.
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).