Dionne Swift

In essence this workshop follows the design process through from observation and drawing, development and realisation to evaluation.

You'll work through methods of recording visual information using some Speed Drawing techniques, then use this to inform ideas in print and stitch.

You'll bring with objects to draw from - maybe to form the beginnings of a new project or body of work. Through tutor support and discussion you'll develop a unique direction for uour ideas.
I shall demonstrate different textile techniques each day which you can choose to respond to; these may include free machine embroidery, working with dissolveable fabrics, exposing images on to a silk screen, fabric printing with dyes, discharge printing...workshops always vary dependant on the needs of you, the particpants.

Based on my recent solo touring show NEW GROUNDS this workshop aims to celebrate the potential of cloth and stitch. Supported by basic machine stitches and simple handmade marks, cloth is elevated from its uniform two dimensional planes to a throng of peaks, gorges, layers and filaments.

Exploring pleats, folds and undulations of cloth you’ll use un-dyed fabrics to create textural surfaces that could develop into ideas for quilts, wall hangings, interior textiles, fashion garments or even sculptural pieces. By reducing your colour palette you will be able to concentrate on, and revel in, three dimensional fabric forms.

You’ll learn to work in harmony with your sewing machine, find rhythms in your fabric constructions and establish an empathy with the processes you select. Discover and expand free machine embroidery skills, dabble with dissolveable fabrics, experiment with varying weights of cloth, investigate origami techniques to produce a plethora of samples and ideas for new stitch structures: This workshop is predominantly a sampling workshop; providing ideas and investigations as a platform for further individual exploration and development.

Some sewing experience would be useful to get the most from this workshop, but don't worry I can get you up to speed quickly. Ideally you will need to bring your own machine, but please get in touch if this isn't possible.

This workshop coincides with the Holmfirth Film Festival there's always an exciting schedule, so keep an eye on there website for the new programme.

Materials are included in this workshops, but you are free to supplement this with your own.
Please bring scissors, machine sewing thread [whites/neutral tones].

Devoré - burn out - was developed in C17th France as a ''poor man''s lace''. Today it''s an exciting yet illusive textile technique. Devore explores combination fibres cloths, burning away one of the fibres to expose the delicate layer of cloth beneath. It''s a fascinating technique - one which has captivated me for many years and undoubtedly it has become my area of specialism, so much so I''m often refered to as the ''Devore Lady!''

PS - please let me know if you would like to create a larger piece of devored cloth with my support, during the workshop. With advance notice it is usually possible.

Devore pastes, dyes and sampling materials are included in the cost of the workshop. I will have more available to purchase on the day; to use there & then or for you to take home to continue your explorations.

This workshop offers you a spectacular range of uses for devore; I''ve developed accessible techniques and a myriad of additional applications - it''s much more than mere velvet. You''ll learn the basic principles of devoré, learn how to involve colour in innovative ways and how to use devoré in other areas of your textile repertoire. It''s an experimental/sampling workshop, a launch pad for personal development; there will be a multitude of bits of cloth, scrawled notes and glut of ideas -so you won''t necessarily leave with a devoré scarf, but you will have the wherewithal to create your own!

Ever wanted to try silk screen printing on fabric but were worried about the amount of equipment involved? Want to create your own unique printed fabric for textile projects, quilts or patchwork?
Learn about Manutex Monoprinting, create stencils, ponder placement prints, discover breakdown printing and produce your own printed samples to take away and develop further.

Dyes and materials are included in the cost of the workshop - we will be using plain weave cottons - you may wish to also bring your own cloth to experiment with: you'll create your own silk screen images and explore a range of innovative fabric printing techniques to help you develop your own patterned and coloured fabrics. It's the perfect workshop for Textile teachers and enthusiasts as it kick starts a desire for surface pattern and the production of unique cloth, whilst at the same time reducing reliance on expensive equipment and products. My workshops are all about accessiblity and ensuring that students can continue their experimentations in their own environment - it's low tech and suitable for all.

During this experimental workshop you'll create your own silk screen images and explore a range of innovative fabric printing techniques to help you develop your own patterned and coloured fabrics. It's the perfect workshop for Textile teachers and enthusiasts as it kick starts a desire for surface pattern and the production of unique cloth, whilst at the same time reducing reliance on expensive equipment and products.
My workshops are all about accessiblity and ensuring that students can continue their experimentations in their own environment - it's low tech and suitable for all.