This past Saturday was my Shibori class in beautiful Malibu, California. Four of us made the trek from our California digs to a beautiful venue nearly 2 hours away. I cannot begin to tell you how breathtaking this place was. The sky was so blue in contrast to all the green trees and fields that spilled out from below. Believe it or not, there was a giraffe and a zebra living here!
I was so excited and begin taking pictures almost immediately. So loved this sunflower with the thistles that nestled together in brown bottles.
Ah, this says “California” to me.
After a few quick greetings, our class of 38, 37 women and 1 man, began to learn about Shibori from Kaari Meng, owner of the French General store in L.A.
For those of you have never heard of Shibori, it is a Japanese hand-dyeing technique (resist), which produces patterns on fabric. We were givenpieces of fabric, a silk scarf and a bag, but many of us brought additional materials to dip.
We all were given our own bucket to create a “vat” for dyeing.
We had barely gotten started when the sky broke loose and buckets of water began to fall onto our tents, and eventually, us. Yes, it came down in buckets! (Funny how a 6 year California drought can be changed in just an instant.) Despite the rain, the cold temperature and windy gusts, everyone continued to work under the tents. Oh, and yes, it was freezing! One of us had flip-flops on…brrrr.
At some point, two of us were so done, we ran to the car, turned the heater up and unthawed!
Everyone got at least 3 projects completed but I’m fairly certain, no one left dry. In fact, I would say that the majority of people left by 2:00 instead of the scheduled 4 p.m. Kaari assured us the class would be rescheduled and I for one will definitely be back! So today I’m just showing snippets and pieces of us creating. I really can’t recommend this class enough, rain and all! If you are interested, please go here and let Kaari know.
One of my pieces…
As we drove down the road to go back home, this was our view. Even the rain did not dampen the beauty there.
XO,
Debi
When it rains, it pours! What a great experience — in spite of the weather. Looks like a lot of fun. Love the piece you made and I cannot wait to see what you make in the rescheduled workshop.
Got two more items made but not washed and dried. December 19th my friend Suzanne and I will do the process all over again but in the comfort of her home :). We have lots of gifts to make.