The Bast Fibers: Flax, Ramie, and Hemp

Long, strong and silky, bast fibers are the skeletal structure of plants. For thousands of years, they have been the backbone of the textile world as well. Everything from sturdy ropes and sails, strong enough to harness the power of the wind, to delicate gauze weaves and intricate laces have been made from this versatile family of fibers. We'll learn how to grow, collect, process, and spin these fibers. We'll have a look at fiber blends and novelty techniques to produce a variety of useful and unusual yarns. We'll try a variety of textile techniques, both traditional and experimental, to see how these fibers are best used in finished material. Students will have a chance to try some simple paper making, weaving, lace making, and knitting in this workshop.

No. of Participants: 15 students. Students should be able to spin a continuous thread and have working relationship with their wheel.

Equipment: Students should bring their wheels with all its parts and extra drive band material. Hand cards/ flicker/ dog brush/ wool combs. Do NOT go out and buy anything if they don't already have it. I have enough to share and then they can decide what suits them best.

Supplies: I provide all the spinning materials and there is a $10.00 fiber fee.

Studio Equipment Needed: Iron, 1 dozen small household artificial sponges, 1 dozen old bath towels. Judith will bring paper-making screens, two warped table looms, bobbin lace pillow. She will need access to water -- a nearby bathroom will do fine.

Audio Visual: Slide projector and screen if possible.

Class Length: 3 days.