Library Programs*

Recycle a T-shirt; Make a Soft Friend

(1 hour)

Children follow my step-by-step instructions to transform an old t-shirt into an adorable stuffed animal. I show them the soft cats that I made for myself when I was young, we look at the difference between recycling and reuse and we also consider what children can do to help the environment. For ages 7 and up.

Silk Painting

(1½ - 6 hours)

Participants in this workshop feel that they have created something beautiful because we start with materials that are so special. In 1½ hours I demonstrate some basic techniques and they create a few paintings. Alternatively, six hours gives us time to make the paintings into pillows, wall hangings and cards. Please note that drawings can be provided for those who do not wish to draw their own designs. For ages 11 and up.

Fabric Self-Portrait

(1 hour)

Participants use fabric, sequins, markers, beads, multicultural skin tones and other materials to create their portraits. The results are always surprisingly accurate. Before we begin, I describe how I became a textile artist, show some of my work and emphasize the role that determination plays in achieving goals. For ages five and up.

Wool Felting

(1 hour)

Children learn the basics of the ancient art of felting as they make themselves a felted wool bag that's the perfect size for holding coins or other small treasures. They discover that wool felt is like their own hair when it's tangled, and that hand felted animal hair has been used for both shelter and clothing for 1,500 years. For ages 7 and up.

*Librarians please note:

While minimum age requirements are listed for each program, libraries are encouraged to include older children and adults also. Mixing learners of various ages adds to the fun.