I love retreats, whether it’s with a small group of friends or at a big venue with lots of different classes.
I think what I like about them the most is having that extended period of time focussed on exploration, and learning new things with a group of enthusiastic kindred spirits. And even though I may be the one leading a class, I also learn and grow from the experience.
Online classes may be economical but there is nothing like a live class where everyone is sharing and learning from each other.
At the top of my list of fun retreats is Craft Napa, and I’m thrilled to be teaching again at the 5th annual Craft Napa taking place January 15-19, 2020. Registration opens next week, so nows the time to check out the workshops and book the hotel before they run out of rooms at the special rate.
This year I have a new class, an oldie but goodie, and I’ve split my popular fabric printing workshop; Paint and Printapalooza into 2 separate classes.
THURSDAY
Shibori Showdown
Shibori Showdown is an exploration of creating patterned fabric, using the Japanese art of fabric manipulation called Shibori.
We will use acrylic inks to dye the fabric while learning a variety of ways to fold, twist, pleat, pole wrap, and clamp fabric to create beautiful and unique patterns.
FRIDAY
Paint and Thermofax
In Paint and Thermofax students learn a variety of techniques for creating colorful textured fabrics using acrylic inks, and then learn how to apply additional pattern by printing with thermofax screens.
FRIDAY 6:00 PM
Artists Market
Craft Napan’s often start shopping before 6 so you don’t want to arrive late.
The Artists Market is free of charge and open to the public and held in the Fountain Court at The Embassy Suites/Napa.
SATURDAY
Painted Canvas with Acrylic Markers
This is a brand new class where I’ll share my love of painting with acrylic paint markers on canvas.
Learn a whole new way to paint using fluid acrylics and paint markers.
Students will paint colorful backgrounds with big brushes on un-stretched canvas, then paint and draw imagery with fun and easy to use acrylic paint markers. Learn how to add simple patterns to make complex looking designs. It will transform the way you think about painting.
SUNDAY
Heavy Metal Play Day
Start the day with some flash by learning to make beautiful designs with dimension and texture on aluminum and copper. Using an assortment of tools, create embossed patterns and imagery, and discover multiple ways to add color to enhance your designs.
Registration for Craft Napa opens June 1st, so check out the website now and try to book your workshop choices as soon as you can because many of them fill on the first day!
Where is your favorite place to take workshops? Do you travel far or do you prefer to stay close to home?
Keep creating,
Judy
I’d love to spark your creativity at one of these upcoming events:
2019
August 2, 3 Meissners Santa Rosa, CA Tea & Ephemera and Painting Imagery with Textile Paints
September 27, 28 River City Quilt Show, Sacramento, CA
Color Theory, and Painting Imagery with Textile Paints
October 31-November 2 International Quilt Festival, Houston
2-day Paint and Printapalooza, and Tea and Ephemera
2020
Craft Napa Jan 15-18, 2020!
New Zealand February 2020! for info contact Kerry Glen, Tulis Textiles
May 27-31 Woodland Ridge Retreat, Menomonie, WI
Tea & Ephemera and Painted Imagery
October 18-24 Hudson Valley Quilt Retreat, Greenville, NY
Paint and Printapalooza
ABOUT JUDY
Judy is an artist, explorer, image wrangler, knowledge seeker, instructor, speaker, creative alchemist, and purveyor of inspiration, helping others channel creativity on a daily basis.