I am happy to announce that I am scheduled to teach two in-person workshops in Fall of 2024 at Red Stone Glen Fiber Workshop in York Haven, PA. The Glen create a unique studio atmosphere in a woodland setting. Click on the links below to see the full class descriptions.

Making Japanese and Andean Braids on the Marudai is a class for both beginners and experienced braiders. I will send out a questionnaire before class so that I can learn a little bit about you and what you are hoping to learn during the workshop. The marudai is a versatile piece of equipment that is capable of making braids that are round, square, and flat. There is no end to their uses. In Japan, they are primarily used for making obijime, a cord used for tying the obi in place. They are also used for ties on jackets, on small bags, hair ornaments, and more recently in jewelry. With a little practice, the rhythm of making braids with weighted bobbins can be meditative and relaxing. (This is in part because when your hands cross the mid-line of your body, the brain re-balances.) That said, you will find some braid designs to be challenging. The beauty of it is that you choose the level at which you want to work. On Day 1, beginners start with the basic 8-strand braid structures on which more complex braids are based. On Day 2, you will progress to 16-strand braids. You will have practice with setting up the marudai multiple times so that when you get home, you will feel a bit more confident about setting up.  At the Glen, the fibers are included in the price of the class and there are marudais and bobbins available to rent. (See link below.)

For intermediate briaders I will want to discuss where you would like to begin and what you would like to explore. You may want to try using a core frame with your marudai. Fibers are provided, 10/2 cotton and 8/2 tencel. If you have other fibers you want to use that's fine. If you want to bring some traditional fibers to try, or some other yarns, that's great too. (I have two core frames available to rent.)

Takadai - This class is already full. We will be looking for another date. If you are interested, please call the Glen and get on the waiting list.