Fiber Arts

In this class, originally developed by artists Susie and Betsy Brandt, we'll be hand stitching Valentine themed aromatic balsam pillows with a fun, modern twist. Using balsam fir needles, velveteen fabric, glass beads, and sequins, we'll create three different pillows inspired by the raised beadwork of the Tuscarora people and the rich history of balsam fir use in the Adirondacks. These are great for use in a dresser, closet, car or anywhere you would enjoy the fragrance! Pillows are approximately 5" in height. No prior experience or sewing machine required.

In this class students will learn how to cut and stabilize t-shirts to be used in a "memory" t-shirt quilt. Some editing of materials may be necessary. Guidance for fabric choices of sashing and background colors will be given. On day 2 students will lay out and size their blocks and begin sewing. Options for quilting will be discussed. On day 3 students will finish their quilts by applying the borders, binding and label. Homework will be assigned between each class date. Students will need to bring their own t-shirt collection, a rotary cutter and cutting mat for day 1. Materials for days 2 & 3 will be discussed during class. Some knowledge of sewing/quilting is helpful.

AFS UFO Studio, formerly known as Sewing Circle, is an out of this world opportunity for fiber artists to come and complete the UnFinished Objects floating around their home. UFO Studio is free to attend, and though it is non-instructional, peer-to-peer help is always available. All forms of projects are welcome ? bring your unfinished weaving, sewing, embroidery, rug hooking, knitting, crocheting, felting, or any other project that involves fiber handwork. AFS has a couple of sewing machines, small looms, and hand tools available but please feel free to bring your own!

Want to try out weaving on a floor loom? This class starts with a loom all set up and ready to go - no prior weaving experience is needed! Keep the winter chill away with a scarf you weave yourself. Each class will include an introduction to the loom and instruction on how to operate it. Several color choices will be available. You'll be weaving away in no time!

Learn how to print and paint with locally-foraged natural dyes to create beautiful, useable items! Participants will learn how to prepare thickened dye pastes, print or paint them on cotton and set them for long-lasting, washable results, with a discussion of growing or foraging their own dye plants in the local region and preparing cloth for dyeing. Participants can select a cotton tea towel or cotton scarf. Historic-style wooden blocks will be provided, or students can bring their own stencils or designs to paint.

In this class students will learn how to cut and stabilize t-shirts to be used in a "memory" t-shirt quilt. Some editing of materials may be necessary. Guidance for fabric choices of sashing and background colors will be given. On day 2 students will lay out and size their blocks and begin sewing. Options for quilting will be discussed. On day 3 students will finish their quilts by applying the borders, binding and label. Homework will be assigned between each class date. Students will need to bring their own t-shirt collection, a rotary cutter and cutting mat for day 1. Materials for days 2 & 3 will be discussed during class. Some knowledge of sewing/quilting is helpful.

AFS UFO Studio, formerly known as Sewing Circle, is an out of this world opportunity for fiber artists to come and complete the UnFinished Objects floating around their home. UFO Studio is free to attend, and though it is non-instructional, peer-to-peer help is always available. All forms of projects are welcome ? bring your unfinished weaving, sewing, embroidery, rug hooking, knitting, crocheting, felting, or any other project that involves fiber handwork. AFS has a couple of sewing machines, small looms, and hand tools available but please feel free to bring your own!

Participants will dye a range of natural colors using plants found locally in the Adirondack region. We'll talk about fiber selection and preparation, dyeing techniques, and how to sustainably gather plant materials for natural dyeing. This is a great foundation for future natural dye classes. Beginners will get a strong foundation in the fundamentals of natural dyeing, while participants with some experience with dye will gain a deeper experience with local materials. Participants have the option to select quilting cotton, DK weight wool yarn, or cotton mending thread. No experience necessary.

Join us for in introduction to the art of traditional rug hooking with this 9” x 9” quail. In this beginner-friendly, one-day class, you’ll learn the basics of this timeless textile craft. All materials-including backing, wool strips, hook and frame-will be provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Colors may vary. Class registration closes one month before the class in order to leave time to prepare materials.

In this class you will learn several tapestry weaving techniques using a variety of yarns and fibers to create a unique wall hanging. The instructor will discuss a variety of loom options, from something as simple as cardboard to a loom designed specifically for tapestry weaving. The instructor will bring along a variety of yarns and materials, but you are encouraged to bring along your favorite yarns that may be in your stash. Small yardage amounts go a long way in this style of tapestry weaving. If you are a hand spinner, bring along your smooth or textured yarns. You will find a place for them in this style of tapestry weaving.

Welcome the flowers of spring while you learn the basics of Punch Needle hooking. You will use wool yarn to create this project. The pattern and wool are included in the materials cost. Students will have the option to purchase the punch needle after class if they wish.

AFS UFO Studio, formerly known as Sewing Circle, is an out of this world opportunity for fiber artists to come and complete the UnFinished Objects floating around their home. UFO Studio is free to attend, and though it is non-instructional, peer-to-peer help is always available. All forms of projects are welcome ? bring your unfinished weaving, sewing, embroidery, rug hooking, knitting, crocheting, felting, or any other project that involves fiber handwork. AFS has a couple of sewing machines, small looms, and hand tools available but please feel free to bring your own!