I have been working on many new techniques I have learned on line through Tutorials, Blogs and Facebook Eco Printing Groups. I've learned much of what I know from India Flint's books and through the classes taught by Kathy Hays. I have studied about natural dyes and the difference water can make in your results. I'm feeling more confident in my process and satisfied with my results. I felt I was ready to teach a class as my friend Kathleen had been encouraging me to do.
This month I had a class at my home outside. It was a Sunday and it's usually pretty quiet outside on Sundays in my neighborhood. Well, wouldn't you know it! Heavy equipment arrived across the street around 6 a.m. Radio blasting as well. Shortly they left only to return to start their work just before I started my class instruction. Apparently they were repairing an underground pipe at my neighbor's home. No one seemed to mind the noise as we were out behind my house as far away from my neighbors as we could get. Kathleen's husband thankfully brought over and put up a tent so we wouldn't be standing out in the hot sun. There were five students and I started off telling them about the blank silk scarves and how to prepare them prior to printing. I reviewed the class steps with them then I took them on a walk around the yard each with their own baggie to collect leaves and flowers for printing. I offered two choices for their bundles. Simmered in onion skins or steamed. We had a fun time and everyone said they enjoyed it. Some asked when I would be having another class! I'm thinking I might have one in the fall. :) Here are a few photos from the days events.
Remember to play a little everyday!
Peace, Diane
