302 Surface & Structure: Exploring Stitched Shibori

302 Surface & Structure: Exploring Stitched Shibori

Stitched shibori is a resist-dye technique that uses hand stitching to create pattern, line, and texture on cloth. In this workshop, you will explore foundational stitched shibori methods, learning how stitch placement, spacing, thread choice, and tension influence the final dyed surface. Through demonstration and guided practice, you will create a series of stitched samples that emphasize intentional design and surface development. Fabric will be dyed using indigo, revealing the effects of compression and resist.

In addition to hands-on stitched shibori instruction, the workshop will include a brief discussion of how select grid-based stitched patterns relate conceptually to woven shibori. You will explore, using visual examples, shared principles such as repetition, spacing, and structure to help handweavers recognize connections across techniques. This portion is discussion-based only; no woven shibori instruction will be taught. The workshop is suitable for beginners.

Experience Level

All Levels

Maximum Class Size

12

Materials Fee

$40 covers indigo, indigo auxillaries, Japanese cloth, string, shibori thread

Student Supplies

Students are required to bring:

  • Hand-sewing needles suitable for medium-weight fabric
  • Small, sharp scissors
  • Seam ripper
  • Long dishwashing or waterproof gloves
  • Old towel
  • Apron or protective studio clothing
  • Thimble
  • Needle threader
  • Small notebook for notes
  • Graph paper
  • 1 yard Pellon (for recreating stencil patterns)

Homework

None

Photo

Instructor Photo

Instructor

Suzanne Conners

Instructor Bio

Suzanne Connors is a fiber artist, educator, and arts administrator specializing in indigo, shibori, and surface design. Her personal practice focuses on Japanese textile traditions. She is a recipient of the Marties Award from the Martin Arts Council and has served on the Board of Directors for Silk Painters International (SPIN). Her background in gallery ownership and project management informs her strength in creating well-organized, immersive learning environments.

Instructor Website

Classroom

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