DESCRIPTION:
The traditional embroidery from the hands of the women of northwest India will inspire our work in this workshop. The “Mochi” embroiderers are members of families of cobblers and leather workers who, using a modified awl hook called an “ari”, developed a simple chain stitch to embellish the leather used in making slippers in shoes. The same stitch is used on their clothing and home décor, often with embedded mirrors.
The workshop will begin with a lecture and slide presentation on the Mochi people and their colorful embroidery, based on Maddy’s 2011 work in Radhanpur and Ahmedabad India, working with S.E.W.A, (the Self-Employed Women’s Association). Examples of this work will be displayed, as well as a fairly extensive collection of publications. We will discuss how their work and techniques can be an inspiration in our rug hooking projects. We will learn how to attach mirrors to the hooking using the ari stitch, making marigold wreaths (part of their Hindu culture), and the using of decorative tongues to edge the piece. Each project will be unique!
The designs for our Workshop include elephants, birds, and lions, as well as floral and geometric designs. Vibrant (or muted, student choice) colors will be intermixed with mirrors and tassels to create a wall hanging, pillow or tablemat. Larger rug patterns are available as well. In advance, each student will receive an online brochure showing a variety of project sizes and subjects, available in either patterns or kits. These patterns will be most suitable for cuts between #6 and #8.
Teacher will contact students prior to class: Yes
Level: Basic – students must have basic rug hooking knowledge & experience.