The cloth here is a base of silk muslin with a silk mix laid on the top. When finished this surface will be used to create small stitched samples for my ''artist book'' collection. I have to say....the silk mix does not like the sewing machine or is it the sewing machine that doesn't like the silk mix. I wish I had a ''horrified face'' emoji to insert here. Actually, I just found one.
Suffice to say, my sewing machine isn't speaking to me.
I think it was worth it though. I definitely learnt something and I do have a half passable surface to enhance with hand embroidery.
It's only 3 weeks until the 12 month ''artist books'' adventure begins, hence the play with fabrics, surfaces and paper. I have copied all that information below for you. I'm off to make friends with my sewing machine.
12 Month Artist Book adventure
Begins Monday September 11 2017
Online format.... Private password protected blog.
This is not an ''art'' class as you may imagine, my books will be enhanced purely through the use of stitch.
In response to numerous requests and following on from the success of my last ''artist book'' online learning programme I have created a 12 month online learning experience to which you will have unlimited access during the ''live'' 12 month period and beyond. Yes, one sign up, unlimited access...forever.
During our 12 month ''live'' programme I intend to provide video demonstration on a monthly basis with text blog posts weekly. It is possible and likely however that video may be required outside of this timetable meaning video provision is expected to be over and above that originally planned. My classes grow as they progress, they develop as new ideas are formed, I learn from you too, your needs, your progress, that process of learning and interaction invariably affects any teaching plans I have at the outset, allowing me to develop and extend course content as we progress.
Join me whilst I endeavour to fulfil a long held ambition, the creation of a large collection of hand created artist books, journals and ledgers comprising pages of stitch and collage using cloth, embroidered scraps, beads, buttons, lace, pattern and paper.
Your pages can be added to any book you wish, make your own ledger with fine paper, with hand made paper, with patterned paper or use a special sketchbook, maybe even a story book. These things will be discussed and considered during our programme of creativity.
***please note. I have only basic book making skills. This is not a book making class in terms of the creation of finely bound sketchbooks, journals or ledgers. My own books will be very basic and simple. I am happy for you to be more experimental and adventurous with your own books. I encourage the pushing of boundaries, the exploration of idea and thought.***
My role is to demonstrate the creation of collaged and textured sheets of paper, cloth and embroidery, to illustrate the creation of stitched scraps for pages and to then share how a page can be adorned in order to enhance the presentation of your sampling. This in turn will lead to the creation of unique ''artist books'', a library of ideas and inspiration and a valuable resource for the future in terms of design and the extension of embroidery sampling.
Group interaction will be facilitated within the forum of a private Flickr group where it will be possible to upload images and receive feedback and encouragement from the wider group along with input from me. There will also be the opportunity for wider discussion within the ''discussion'' area of that group. Interaction in this manner is however voluntary. There is no pressure on you to participate within this forum. If you prefer to work quietly, on your own that is encouraged too. My wish is for you to use this learning experience in the manner best suited to you, to learn in a way which makes you happy and furthers your individual creativity.
Images of my own ''Artist Books'' can be seen here. From viewing these images you will gain an appreciation of what can be achieved during this programme and beyond.
http://karenannruane.typepad.com/karen_ruane/artist-books/
Please note, certain tasks within this programme require the use of a sewing machine.
Access.... Unlimited. Forever.
Materials required.... List sent upon registration.
***No prerequisites, suitable for beginners and the more experienced.***
You do not need to have participated in any of my previous online learning programmes to take part in this class.