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Dahlias with Anne Tomlin

September 2, 2022 - September 4, 2022

Tutor: Anne Tomlin

Observe and make a realistic silk dahlia using traditional flower-making tools together with Anne’s own techniques that she has developed over her long career in millinery.

During the course you will use a variety of fabrics and learn skills that include:-

Observing the construction of a dahlia and ways to interpret.

Preparing and stiffening silk

Cutting out from templates

Blending colour with dyes, and exploring mark-making using a variety of brushes.

Creating a textured centre for the flower

Making a framework of wire for each petal

Binding stems with silk

The course is suitable for all levels including beginners. All that is required is a basic knowledge of sewing and some patience. Throughout the course, you will be shown how to construct flowers from deconstruction of the real thing learning several techniques; each stage will be demonstrated with samples. You will be encouraged to experiment with dyes and advice on painting techniques with Procion dyes will be at hand to create the colours you want.

Anne will help you through the different processes with plenty of individual attention. You will gain skills that you can use after the course has ended, to explore the craft and develop your own personal way of recreating many other flowers. We will review all the techniques involved and you will be given information on suppliers of silk, tools and materials used, and a tutorial with templates. By observing real flowers we can learn so much about their relationship with pollinating insects and this increases our connection with nature.

Organizer

West Dean College
Phone
+44 (0)1243 811301
Email
enquiries@westdean.org.uk
View Organizer Website

Venue

West Dean College
West Dean, PO18 0QZ United Kingdom + Google Map
Phone
+44 (0)1243 811301
View Venue Website