Seriously, life is awesome, I get paid to keep learning and sharing what I love! This year was no exception. I taught Intro to Jewelry, Intro to Fine Craft and Intro to Fiber Art throughout 2012 – I make samples for every course and class, plus private commissions…which means I craft a TON of projects.
This year, there were three techniques in craft I became thoroughly obsessed with- chain maille, bind & resist dyeing, and hand knotting.
Chain maille – easy, repetitious, fun. a common skill amongst jewelers or craftsmen, but rarely used beyond securing ends of strands. This one skill makes you incredibly good with pliers. Many students appreciate this technique but find it frustrating to deal with – those that did enjoy it, did a FANTASTIC job with it. I really enjoy the simple process of “weaving” with metal, so you will see me offer this in classes and workshops too.
In the Dyepot – I do love to dye things – until this past year, a majority of my dyed wares were wool fiber/yarn and silk scarves/camis – while the kettle dyeing process is still my favorite, I got into Fiber reactive dyeing with my Fiber & Fine Craft classes, which opened up Pandora’s box for me – I have spent more hours with my elbows deep in dye and refolding fabric blanks than I can count – I have definitely stirred up a lifelong passion for this technique, can’t wait till I have a good dye sink in the basement 🙂
Hand Knotting – One of the most ancient (and successful) ways of making stranded jewelry really got to me this year. I found the repetitious process of knotting really therapeutic, plus not much more shows off each bead choice than knots spacing each one apart. I was so into it that I taught several classes and a workshop in it! Pearls and prayer beads were the top faves, but now I’m thinking of taking this technique into my home goods…keep an eye out 😉