Group Correspondence Courses
NER is pleased to be sponsoring two Group Correspondence Courses:
- Plum Blossom, a Sashiko embroidery flower, taught by Lois Kershner
- Roses, a blackwork picture, taught by Carol Algie Higginbotham.
Plum Blossom – Sashiko
(Teacher: Lois Kershner)
Sashiko Plum Blossom introduces the basic techniques of traditional Japanese sashiko embroidery. “Sash(i)ko” (the “I” is almost silent), meaning “little pierce” or “little stab,” uses just one stitch, a running stitch, for all of the stylized patterns within the petals of the lovely plum blossom motif. Sashiko is for all levels of stitchers, many finding the stitching rhythm of the beautiful sashiko patterns relaxing. After learning to transfer the patterns for the five flower petals to fabric, the course will continue with step-by-step illustrated instructions for starting and stopping threads without a knot, calculating consistent stitch length, mirroring stitches, turning sharp corners, rounding curves, and meeting stitches at intersections. Although originally done on indigo-dyed or navy fabric using white cotton thread, fabric and thread color substitutions are possible. The text includes practice and master patterns, a history of sashiko, numerous diagrams, and thorough instructions — all the information you need to design and stitch your own sashiko projects in the future.
Project: Pillow or chair cushion, wall hanging
Size: 10 ½" x 10 ½" design area
Fabric: 50% cotton / 50% linen fabric, or student’s choice
Threads: Sashiko cotton or student’s choice
Colors: Traditional white on navy blue, or student’s choice
Skill level: All levels
Prerequisites: None
Time: Preliminary meeting plus three meetings suggested – 3 months
Text: 30 pages including 12 with color illustrations, full size master transfer pattern, transfer paper, unbound, two-pocket folder
Supplies: (approximate): Less than $20.00, depending on fabric and marker choice. Each student is responsible for supplying all materials.
Plum Blossom – Sashiko Group Correspondence Course
Name: ______________________________________________________________________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Preferred Phone: _______________________________Email:
EGA Membership Number (required): ____________The registration deadline is September 30, 2010.
Please send this form along with a check in the amount of $45.00 made payable to “NER EGA” to: Pat Timpanaro, 41 East Highland Avenue, Melrose, MA 02176.
Roses (Teacher: Carol Algie Higginbotham)
Roses takes one of our favorite flowers and uses it to teach you one method of working blackwork. Using a floral motif is in keeping with historic pieces done in one period of blackwork. You will be introduced to the history of blackwork, materials, design transfer and a method of working blackwork patterns. You will discover the difference between dark, medium and light density blackwork patterns. The original is worked in black and gray to give some contrast and interest to the piece. The use of gold for the enhancement of the piece echoes the historic use of gold. The piece is worked on your choice of 28 to 30 count white or cream linen in stranded floss and very fine metallic braid. While the original is in black, gray and gold, you may work in any color you prefer. Make your Roses bloom and be ready to work any design you may find in blackwork.
Project: Framed picture
Size: 8 ½" x 12” design area
Fabric: 28-30 count white or cream linen
Threads: Stranded floss, #4 very fine braid
Colors: As shown in photograph or student’s choice
Skill level: Beginner
Prerequisites: None
Time: Six months. Required meetings are left to the discretion of the group.
Text: includes color pictures and detailed instructions.
Supplies: (approximate) $25.00. Each student is responsible for supplying all materials.
Roses Group Correspondence Course
Name:
Address:
Preferred Phone:________________________________Email:________________________________
EGA Membership Number (required):
The registration deadline is September 30, 2010.
Please send this form along with a check in the amount of $45.00 made payable to “NER EGA” to:
Pat Timpanaro
41 East Highland Avenue
Melrose, MA 02176