Fiber Arts Classes

    • Sunday, April 02, 2023
    • Sunday, August 06, 2023
    • 5 sessions
    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI040223JR
    • 11
    Register

    Gather with fellow knitters to make hats to share through local organizations that are helping others.

    About this Class

    Gather at this monthly hat knit-along to socialize and knit hats for local organizations that are helping keep others warm! Hats can be as simple or complex as you like, and any size. This is a great skill-building and stash-busting project. 

    Details

    • Skill Level: Basic knitting skills
    • This event, free to both BARN members and guests, requires registration so we can plan.

    Materials

    Bring your own stash of yarn.

    Class Policies

    Instructor

    Jessica Rose recently arrived on Bainbridge from Seattle where she had more than 10 years' experience working and teaching at a local yarn shop, as well as blogging and podcasting about knitting. She’s a knitter, spinner, and dyer who loves to play with fiber and color but most of all she loves to knit hats. She’s so excited to join the creative community at BARN!

    • Wednesday, April 05, 2023
    • Wednesday, November 08, 2023
    • 8 sessions
    • BARN's Small Classroom
    • 10
    Register

    Join fellow weavers one day a month for a year-long study group to view Jane Stafford’s Online Weaving Guild episodes on our big screen TV in BARN's small classroom. Learn new weaving techniques while we share our successes as weavers. We will be starting with Season 1, back to the basics!

    Participants need to enroll in the JST Online Guild. The online guild requires a fee to join, which is not covered by BARN. Once you join, you also will have access to all past episodes and helpful information posted on the JST Weaving School website. Please register so you can get reminders for the upcoming watch parties.


    Details:

    • Free for BARN members. Non-Members pay $20 drop-in fee per session. Participants are welcome to attend one or all of the sessions.
    • Ages 14+ welcome
    • Please click here for BARN's current COVID-19 health & safety protocols. 
    • BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available - click here to fill out the simple application before registering for a class. For those who might need physical assistance, please learn about BARN's Companion Program here.

    Instructor:

    Facilitated by Weaving Studio volunteers

    • Wednesday, April 19, 2023
    • Wednesday, June 21, 2023
    • 3 sessions
    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code FI100222TW
    • 8
    Register

    Join other weavers to explore traditional tapestry designs.

    About this class

    Thanks to our BARN woodworking friends, a set of Navajo-style looms that also can be adapted to Salish-style weaving are now available. 

    Learn to warp the looms, explore fiber choice, and pattern. You can use one of our new looms or any loom setup for tapestry-style weaving.

    We decide on our learning journey as a group. Please register for this event.

    Details

      This event is free for members. Guests pay a $20 drop-in fee.

      Class Policies

        Instructor

        Terry Winer and Catherine Camp lead this group, as fellow explorers of these techniques, and who hope to be accomplished tapestry weavers some day.  

        • Thursday, April 20, 2023
        • Thursday, June 22, 2023
        • 6 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI042023NS
        • 12
        Registration is closed

        Make a sweater over several months in this BARN Knit Along using scrap yarn.

        About this Class

        Worked seamlessly from the top down, the Sea Glass Sweater is a great pattern option for using up all of those tiny scraps of yarn you have been saving! This long-sleeved, relaxed-fit sweater is knit in DK weight yarn, using a simple 1x1 colorwork method. With inclusive sizing, tons of tutorials and advice included with the pattern, and no ends to weave in, this is an easy project even for beginning colorwork knitters.

        (Photo credit @wool.and.pine.designs, sweater modeled by @kiya.faith)

        Details

        • Skill Level: All Levels

        • Knitters should be comfortable casting on and off, knitting and purling, and increasing and decreasing. If you aren’t comfortable with colorwork or need a reminder of a technique, come ask us for help during the Knit Along, or at one of our knitting circles!
        • Free to members, guests pay a $10 drop-in fee for each session.

        Materials

        Student should bring:

        • Copy of the Sea Glass pattern (purchase from Ravelry or woolandpine.com)
        • Whatever scrap yarn you have lying around - if you have extra, please consider bringing it to share with other knitters (advice for using weights other than DK can be found in the pattern)
        • Don’t have any scrap yarn? No problem! There will be plenty of scraps to go around! 
        • Size 5 and 7 needles (or size needed to achieve gauge).

        Class Policies

        Instructor

        Naomi Spinak has been digging around in the trash bin for some time to create new treasures. Creator at one time of a line of organic and scrap-based children's clothing (Free Range Kids), Naomi is a costume designer, fiber artist, dressmaker, and currently committee chair for the Bainbridge Island Trashion Show. Her work has been featured in the Bainbridge Island Quilt Show; Bainbridge Performing Arts; the Texas state capitol in Austin; the Kirkland Center for the Arts; and the O'Hanlon Center for the Arts in California. She has a piece in an upcoming issue of Surface Design Association Journal. She has taught numerous classes at her children's school, Odyssey, on Bainbridge.

        • Thursday, May 11, 2023
        • Thursday, June 08, 2023
        • 2 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Studio
        • 1
        Register

        Explore stitches and needlework with other embroiderers!

        About this Class

        A different set of stitches or needlework techniques are the focus each month as we explore how to do it and what we can create with it.  

        In January, for example, we explored some of the many aspects of buttonhole stitch, and decided where to go from there based on the interest and experience of the group.

        Details:

        • Skill Level: Some experience with embroidery.
        • Free to members; $50 fee for guests.
        • Drop-ins are welcome. Register if you'd like reminders of this event.

        Class Policies

        Instructor

        Fiber Studio volunteers lead the group.

        • Tuesday, May 16, 2023
        • Tuesday, December 19, 2023
        • 9 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Studio
        • 11
        Register

        About this Class

        Calling All Open Weavers: 

        Basket makers of all levels and backgrounds are welcome! Bring your current projects, completed works, or just your curiosity. Weavers share techniques, design ideas, materials information; ask and answer questions, and problem solve. 

        To receive email reminders of this event, please register.  Drop in are welcome.

        We meet the third Tuesday of each month, from 10 am to 2 pm in the Fiber Arts Studio. Email Cyndy Holtz with questions: [email protected]

        Details

        • Free for BARN Members and a suggested $10 donation for non-members.

        • Registration is not required.

        Class Policies

        • Please click here for BARN's current COVID-19 health & safety protocols. 

        • BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available - click here to fill out the simple application before registering for a class. For those who might need physical assistance, please learn about BARN's Companion Program here.

        If you have questions,  please contact Fiber Studio lead at [email protected]


        • Tuesday, May 23, 2023
        • Tuesday, January 16, 2024
        • 36 sessions
        • Event time is Pacific Time
        • 108
        Register

        Join Fiber Arts Studio Lead Dale Walker for virtual open studios focused on slow stitching.

        About this Class

        This is an ongoing, virtual open studio rather than a class. Drop in via Zoom Tuesday afternoons to see what others or doing, show them your work, or just say "Hi" and let us know how you're doing!

        Basically, we’re considering slow stitch anything you do with yarn or thread by hand. This includes knitting, crochet, embroidery, needlepoint, mending, tatting, and other handwork.

        Details

        • Register at any time even if sessions have already happened.
        • You will get reminder emails on the day before the event with the Zoom link.
        • All Zoom times are Pacific Time.
        • For a great video on how to use Zoom, watch this tutorial.
        • Make sure you have the most current version of the Zoom software.

        Class Policies

        • Wednesday, May 24, 2023
        • Wednesday, December 27, 2023
        • 28 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Arts Studio, Host: Dale Walker
        • 11
        Register

        Bring your handwork projects and stitch with your BARN friends.

        About this Event

        This ongoing gathering - not a class - is all about hand needlework and embroidery. It is a time to get together and stitch, and get a little advice and help with your project.

        Come if you're interested in embroidery, visible mending, needlepoint or hand sewing.  It's always interesting and fun to see what others are doing, and to share your work!

        Details

        • Free to members, guests pay a $10 drop-in fee.

        • Registration is not required, and drop-ins are welcome, but please register to receive reminder notices.

        BARN Policies

        Host

        Dale Walker hosts these Better Together sessions. She is the Fiber Arts Needle Arts Coordinator, and enjoys weaving, knitting, embroidery, sewing, dyeing, and surface design.

        • Thursday, May 25, 2023
        • Thursday, December 28, 2023
        • 14 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Studio
        • 5
        Register

        Time to grab your knitting and head to BARN!

        About this Class

        Join knitting enthusiast Betsy Hagestedt, share your projects, and plan your next one. Explore new ideas, finish projects, and see what fellow knitters are making. This is a great time to immerse yourself in fiber and friendship!

        Please register so you can get reminders of the next Knitting Circle.

        Details

        • Skill level: All levels

        • Free to members, $10 drop-in fee for guests.

        • Registration is not required but if you register, you'll get reminders of the next Knitting Circle.

        Class Policies

         Instructor

        Betsy Hagestedt hosts these Knitting Circles. She Betsy has been working with fiber since she was in elementary school, having learned to sew and knit from her mom. As an anthropologist, she uses her fiber practice as a means of connecting with people from other cultures, embracing the universal nature of fiber arts. Knitting gradually became her specialization due to its portability as she began to travel around the world. You can see some of her fiber experiments on her Instagram feed at behestknits.

        • Wednesday, May 31, 2023
        • Wednesday, January 17, 2024
        • 34 sessions
        • BARN Fiber Studio
        • 16
        Register

        Spend the afternoon weaving at BARN.

        About the Event

        Do you like to weave on a rigid heddle loom? 

        Crazy about frame loom weaving?

        In love with weaving on floor looms? 

        Does weaving tapestry pieces make your heart flutter?


        If your answer to one or more of these questions is yes, then drop on by and come hang out with your fellow weavers every Wednesday from 1:00 to 4:00 PM.  This is also a time we schedule labs or study groups. 

        If you would like a reminder before each session, you can register. Drop-ins are welcome. 

        Details

        • Free to members, guests $10.00 drop in fee.

        • Registration is not required.


        Class Policies:

        • Please click here for BARN's current COVID-19 health & safety protocols. 

        • BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available - click here to fill out the simple application before registering for a class. For those who might need physical assistance, please learn about BARN's Companion Program here.
          • Thursday, June 01, 2023
          • Saturday, June 03, 2023
          • 3 sessions
          • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI060123JF
          • 8
          Registration is closed

          Explore eco printing with plant material directly on your fabric or paper.

          About this Class

          Achieve incredibly vibrant and realistic leaf prints using contact printing, a natural dye method of transferring the pigments found in plant material directly to cloth or paper (also known as eco-printing or botanical printing). You will explore the basics of contact printing, including some rudimentary plant physiology and how to manipulate prints with mordants and dye blankets. You also will experiment with some simple shibori techniques and easy methods of embellishing the finished prints. 

          Details:

          • Skill Level: Beginner

          • Students should wear clothes that can get dirty

          • A $30 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers sample fabrics, including scarf blanks and papers; large pots; wrapping materials; clamps and resists; and mordants and natural dyes. Students will need to bring additional supplies (see below).
          • Bring a bag lunch and beverage daily. BARN has a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level. 

          Project

          Students will leave with several printed scarves (silk and wool), a variety of printed fabric samples, printed papers suitable for book arts or other paper arts, handouts for technique review, and a newfound appreciation for the color and beauty within the common leaf.

          Materials

          Students should bring:

          • Rubber gloves
          • N95 (or KN95) mask
          • Apron
          • Sharp scissors
          • While the instructor will provide a variety of plant materials for printing, you are encouraged to bring additional leaves from their local environment.
          • You also have the option of bringing personal fabrics and/or papers to experiment with (natural fibers only - silk, wool, cotton, linen, hemp, and/or blends)

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Judilee Fitzhugh is a textile artisan who specializes in natural plant dyes and couture sewing. A tour of duty in Japan with the U.S.Navy led to a profound Japanese influence and a lifelong affection for vintage kimono and other historic textiles. Her finely crafted work combines natural objects with vintage textile remnants, hand dyed and printed fabrics, handweaving and surface design for couture-inspired garments, home textiles and art work. www.judileefitzhugh.com


          • Sunday, June 04, 2023
          • 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
          • BARN Fiber Studio
          • 4
          Register

          This orientation grants members access to the Fiber Arts Studio seven days a week (some classes may preempt use).

          About this Class

          You will spend 30 minutes in the studio reviewing safety and equipment care protocols. In exchange, your BARN member fob will be activated to gain access to the studio 8 am to 10 pm.

          Details

          Open to BARN members only. Register so we know how many will be attending. Guests may use the studio during Better Together sessions.

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Orientations are conducted by a various studio members.

          • Sunday, June 04, 2023
          • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
          • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI060423NS
          • 2
          Register

          The Fiber Lab’s natural indigo vats will be opened for supervised overdyeing and up-cycling in this special event.

          About this Class

          This is your opportunity to bring new life to worn and faded textile by overdyeing it in a natural indigo vat. These vats use a natural reduction process to produce a quick, reliable, long-lasting indigo blue.

          Participants may bring items such as cotton T-shirts, linen tops, vintage napkins, cotton socks, or up to one yard of natural fiber fabric to be dip-dyed. If you've never experienced the magic that is indigo, this is your chance!

          About a month before the event, we will send you instructions for preparing your garment or textile for dipping in one of our Indigo vats, along with more information about what to expect during this experience. The volunteer staff is made up of experienced natural dyers led by Judilee Fitzhugh, who is directing this community activity. 

          Details:

          • Skill Level: All Levels

          • Student should wear work clothes that can get dirty.

          • This event is outdoors, rain or shine, under the teaching tent near the lower parking area at BARN.
          •  If it is a warm day, bring a water bottle.

          • This class is not about how to make or maintain an indigo vat.
          • This event is cosponsored by REFASHION Bainbridge, a part of Sustainable Bainbridge.

          Project

          You will learn the indigo over-dyeing technique by dyeing one piece of garment that you bring.

          Materials

          Students should bring:

          • A pre-washed piece of clothing or a textile to be overdyed. Due to the limited size of our vats, we need to limit the size of your items to something like a T-shirt or top, napkins or place mats.
          •  Rubber gloves

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Judilee Fitzhugh is a textile artisan who specializes in natural plant dyes and couture sewing. A tour of duty in Japan with the U.S.Navy led to a profound Japanese influence and a lifelong affection for vintage kimono and other historic textiles. Her finely crafted work combines natural objects with vintage textile remnants, hand dyed and printed fabrics, handweaving and surface design for couture-inspired garments, home textiles, and art work. www.judileefitzhugh.com

          • Tuesday, June 06, 2023
          • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
          • BARN Fiber Studio
          • 0
          Join waitlist

          Get to know our Baby Lock Solaris 2 Embroidery Machine working one-on-one with a studio volunteer.

          About this Class

          Hoop and embroider a couple of the designs that are among the hundreds that come loaded on the machine in this two-hour tutorial.

          Leave the session ready to explore more of the machine’s dazzling number of functions and knowing how to leave the machine clean and ready for the next embroiderer.

          Check out our Embroidery Machine Skills series to build your repertoire on the Solaris 2.

          Details

          • materials fee to cover fabric, stabilizer, and embroidery and bobbin thread is included in the cost of the class.
          • Note: While this session is scheduled for two hours, you may finish more quickly depending on what designs you choose.

          Prerequisites

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Rotating Fiber Studio Volunteers

          • Wednesday, June 07, 2023
          • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
          • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI042623TW
          • 1
          Register

          Rigid Heddle Loom weavingWeaving beginners and experts alike create a scarf to take home on these portable, easy, and versatile looms.

          About this Class

          Weaving on a rigid heddle loom is fun and easy. The looms are small and portable and your weaving can be as simple or as complex as you like. This class is for those new to weaving or established weavers looking for a way to make quick projects.

          You will learn how to direct warp the loom, how to do simple balanced weaving, how to identify and fix simple mistakes, and how to remove the finished project from the loom.

          Rigid heddle looms are perfect for weaving with hand-knitting yarns. You will choose from a variety of yarns provided by BARN to make a scarf you'll finish by the end of class and take home.

          Details

          • Skill Level: Beginners to advanced weavers

          • A $25 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers all materials needed.

          • Bring a bag lunch. BARN has a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level.

          Project

          A scarf to take home.

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          This class is led by a rotating team of Fiber Studio weavers and fiber artists, including Terry Winer, Dale Walker, and Sybil Carrere. 

          • Thursday, June 08, 2023
          • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
          • BARN Fiber Studio
          • 0
          Join waitlist

          Get certified to use the Baby Lock Presto 2 sewing machines in the Fiber Studio.

          About this Class

          This class also serves as a prerequisite for Fiber Studio workshops, sew-alongs, and other events where you'd like to use these machines and for working on your own projects any time you’re in the studio. It is also a prerequisite for orientations for other sewing machines in the studio.

          Presto 2 machines are easy to use and have many functions. This class guides you through basic machine use including:

          • Opening and setting up the cabinet
          • Winding the bobbin and threading
          • Using the control panel to select stitches and set other functions
          • Selecting and replacing presser feet to match your stitch selection
          • Changing the needle
          • Finding more information about the machine in the reference guide and on the Internet

          We’ll end the class with a checklist for putting your machine away so it’s ready for the next person.

          Details

          • Note: This class is about the Baby Lock Presto 2 sewing machines, not the industrial sewing machine or embroidery machine. We will not focus on learning to sew, although learning to use the machines is a great start!
          • Skill level: All levels

          Class Policies

          Instructors

          Rotating Fiber Studio Volunteers

          This class will certify you to use the new Babylock Presto 2 sewing machines in the Fiber Studio. This class is a prerequisite for Fiber Studio workshops, sew-alongs, and other events where you'd like to use these machines, and it is also a prerequisite for future orientations for other sewing machines in the studio. This class also qualifies you to use these machines for your own projects any time you’re in the studio. 

          Please note that this class is about the Babylock Presto 2 sewing machines. This class is not for the industrial sewing machine or the embroidery machine. We will not focus on learning to sew, though learning to use the machines is a great start for learning to sew.

          The Presto 2 machines are easy to use and have many, many functions. This class will guide you through basic machine use including:

          • opening and setting up the cabinet
          • winding the bobbin and threading
          • using the control panel to select stitches and set other functions
          • selecting and replacing presser feet to match your stitch selection
          • changing the needle
          • finding more information about the machine in the reference guide and on the Internet

          We’ll end the class with a checklist for putting your machine away so that it’s ready for the next person to use.

          BARN will provide neutral-color thread, a size 70 needle, and quilting cotton for the orientation. You are welcome to bring other materials for your own use.

          Details:

          • Skill Level:All levels
          • Ages 14 and up are welcome 
          • Please click here for BARN's current COVID-19 health & safety protocols. 
          • BARN is committed to accessibility. Tuition Assistance is available - click here to fill out the simple application before registering for a class. For those who might need physical assistance, please learn about BARN's Companion Program here.

          Instructors: Rotating Fiber Studio volunteers

          • Friday, June 09, 2023
          • Sunday, June 11, 2023
          • 3 sessions
          • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI060923AM
          • 5
          Register

          Celebrate Pride Month by sewing a beautiful progress Pride flag backpack.

          About this Class

          This is for sewists who want to make the perfect backpack to celebrate Pride Month. You will learn how to install hardware like D-rings, install a zipper, and make adjustable straps that are custom made for you.

          Details:

          • Skill Level: Intermediate
          • A $35 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers all the tools and materials needed, you will need to purchase the pattern (see below).
          • Bring a lunch on Saturday and Sunday. BARN has a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level.

          Project

          You will make the "Love for All" backpack, a ProperFit Clothing pattern.

          Materials

          You will need to purchase the $2.99 pattern online: Love For All Backpack

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Alex McKeon believes creativity is inherent in us all and brings creativity and enthusiasm to the Fiber Studio. She loves helping students tap into their inner artist and learn more about themselves in the process. Whether at the loom or exploring with needle and thread, Alex inspires all who work with her.

          • Monday, June 12, 2023
          • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
          • BARN Fiber Studio
          • 0
          Join waitlist

          Get to know our Baby Lock Solaris 2 Embroidery Machine working one-on-one with a studio volunteer.

          About this Class

          Hoop and embroider a couple of the designs that are among the hundreds that come loaded on the machine in this two-hour tutorial.

          Leave the session ready to explore more of the machine’s dazzling number of functions and knowing how to leave the machine clean and ready for the next embroiderer.

          Check out our Embroidery Machine Skills series to build your repertoire on the Solaris 2.

          Details

          • A materials fee to cover fabric, stabilizer, and embroidery and bobbin thread is included in the cost of the class.
          • Note: While this session is scheduled for two hours, you may finish more quickly depending on what designs you choose.

          Prerequisites

          Must have completed Learn How to Use the Fiber Studio Sewing Machines.

          Class Policies

          Instructor

          Rotating Fiber Studio Volunteers

          • Monday, June 12, 2023
          • Wednesday, December 13, 2023
          • 7 sessions
          • BARN Fiber Studio
          • 9
          Register

          Join us for a monthly spinning session.

          About this Class

          Everyone - from first-timers to experts are welcome! Spin on one of BARN's spinning wheels or bring your own. Dive into BARN's stash of fleece or bring your own.

          Whether you've been spinning for years or you are just curious, drop by and check out BARN's spinning community. We're excited about getting you started in spinning, so come on in!

          Details:

          • Free to members, $10 drop-in fee for guests.

          • To receive reminder emails about this event, please register. Drop-ins are welcome.

          Class Policies

            Instructor


            • Tuesday, June 13, 2023
            • 9:00 AM
            • Tuesday, June 27, 2023
            • 1:00 PM
            • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI060623MA
            • 10
            Register

            Join us for two mornings of sewing the Oberlin bag – “a stylish take on the classic market tote” - from Klum House.

            About this Class

            This roomy tote has four exterior pockets and a hanging interior zip pocket. It closes with a magnetic snap or recessed zipper. It can be an everyday tote, or you can use it for picnics or crafts. Make the exterior pockets from contrasting fabric for extra pizzazz.

            And here’s an added bonus: When you register for the sew-along, you’ll receive a discount code for 10% off from Klum House! Check your confirmation email when your registration is complete.

            The original Oberlin is made from waxed canvas - and Klum House provides a pre-cut, waxed-canvas kit. Or choose your own fabric: canvas, upholstery fabric, denim, waterproof cotton, faux leather ... even quilting cotton or other light fabrics will work in combination with medium to heavy interfacing. The pattern calls for leather straps, but webbing, cork, or fabric straps will all work. 

            This bag pattern is rated “confident beginner,” and includes terrific skill-building techniques. You’ll sew straight, French seams. You’ll put in a magnetic snap, and attach the straps with rivets (using BARN’s rivet press, if you like). With the expansion pattern, you’ll add a recessed zipper.

            Details

            • Skill Level: Basic Sewing Skills
            • This is a sew-along. No instruction is planned, but other sewists will be available to advise.
            • You do not need to buy a kit or other supplies from Klum House (but you do need to purchase the Oberlin pattern. See "Materials" below).

            Materials

            Students need to bring:

            • Your sewing machine, with a fresh needle suitable for the fabric you're using. Or you may reserve a BARN sewing machine.

            • Your own copy of the Oberlin pattern from Klum House (or a source you prefer)

            • Optional: The pattern expansion pack, if you’d like to add a lining or the recessed zipper. 

            • Supplies as specified in the pattern. Check the second page of this Klum House online document. It also is a starting place for brick-and-mortar and online sources for supplies if you don’t want to purchase a Klum House kit or supplies.

            Prerequisites

            None for the sew-along, but if you're reserving a BARN sewing machine, you must have completed any session of Learn How to Use the Fiber Studio Sewing Machines or Orientation to Fiber Sewing Machines.

            Class Policies

            Instructor

            Marcia Adams-Landry is a BARN founding member and a life-long sewist who learned to sew along with lots of her friends from her mom, a 4-H leader who taught cooking and sewing. Marcia and her sister entered stitching and cooking projects in the county fair for several years.

            Marcia’s biggest experience with fabrics was designing a fabric line and developing production techniques to produce cosmetic bags, tableware, and other products. In her current profession as a custom picture framer, Marcia’s love of fiber continues, and she always jumps at the chance to use fiber or frameworks of fiber.

            • Wednesday, June 14, 2023
            • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
            • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code FI012723
            • 20
            Register

            Let's help one another get a better fit with sewn garments!

            About the event

            Fitting garments for yourself is tough. It’s hard to make adjustments while you’re wearing the garment, and once you manage to figure out the adjustments you need to make, how do you translate that to your pattern? And by the way, what does “good fit” even look like?

            While BARN looks for a fitting teacher, let's try helping each other. This group is guided by the folks who come. Bring patterns, garments, and projects-in-process that have you wondering about fit, and we’ll pool our collective knowledge to answer our questions to find the right fit.

            Please sign up each month so we know you’re coming!

            Details

            • Skill Level: All levels
            • Free for BARN members, $20 drop-in fee for guests.
            • Led by rotating studio volunteers

            Class Policies

            • Friday, June 16, 2023
            • 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
            • BARN Fiber Studio
            • 6
            Register

            This orientation grants members access to the Fiber Arts Studio seven days a week (some classes may preempt use).

            About this Class

            You will spend 30 minutes in the studio reviewing safety and equipment care protocols. In exchange, your BARN member fob will be activated to gain access to the studio 8 am to 10 pm.

            Details

            Open to BARN members only. Register so we know how many will be attending. Guests may use the studio during Better Together sessions.

            Class Policies

            Instructor

            Orientations are conducted by a various studio members.

            • Friday, June 16, 2023
            • 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM
            • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI061623NL
            • 4
            Register

            Explore embroidery as you create your own bird using appliqué and embroidery on supple wool.

            About this Class

            To give your bird personality, you will choose a basic color scheme to work with, then appliqué pieces down, learning embroidery stitches to create texture and depth. You will start with a 6 1/2” x 4” piece of wool and use a variety of hand stitch techniques to create your project.

            Select your own color scheme and wool with stitched-down body and head sections. The instructor will supply drawn and labeled diagrams of stitches to be learned. Then you will select wings, petals, and stems to pin and whip stitch to anchor.

            The teacher will demonstrate seven embroidery stitches: bullion knot, chain stitch, closed fly stitch, couching, French knot, long/short stitch, and oyster stitch.

            We will strive to complete the learning of all stitches on the bird and, if needed, you will need additional time at home to complete the sampler.

            Details

            • Skill Level: Beginner
            • A $10 materials kit fee, included in the cost of the class, covers all materials needed (see below).

            Materials

            The $10 materials kit includes:

            • Drawn and labeled diagram of piece with stitches 
            • Three needles (#18, #24 Chenille and #1 Milliners) 

            • Choice of three different color schemes 

            • Dark thread for branch and beak

            • 6 1/2” x 4” bird piece 

            • Appliqué pins


            The Fiber Arts Studio will provide:

            • Small scissors
            • Marking pencil
            • Needle threaders
            • Individual lights

              Class Policies

              Instructor

              Nathalee Lowrie’s passion for textiles began as a child, learning textile arts from both of her grandmothers. Using a needle and thread fueled an instant love affair with color, the suppleness of fabric, and the movement of a needle. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in education/art specialization from North Texas University. She also trained at the Madeline Island School of the Arts in Wisconsin, studying under Sue Spargo and Katie Pasquini Masopust. Her pieces have been accepted into several juried shows and galleries, and her larger pieces can be viewed in the gallery section at https://colorthreadtexture.com/Gallery

              • Sunday, June 18, 2023
              • Sunday, June 25, 2023
              • 2 sessions
              • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI061823BG
              • 5
              Register
              Create a summer blouse inspired by the simple style found in Oaxaca, Mexico.

              About this Class

              Get ready for summer! Join us for a sew-along making a casual top inspired by the traditional Oaxacan women’s blouse popularized by artist Frida Kahlo. Unstructured and loose, the blouse can be worn with jeans or skirts or even as a bathing suit cover-up. 

              This is a sew-along, so we'll be figuring our how to make our tops together, with guidance from the instructor. This fairly simple project will be a great refresher for those who haven’t sewn in a while, and a good confidence-builder for newer sewists.

              Details

              • Skill Level: All levels. Familiarity with your sewing machine is helpful. 
              • Note that formal instruction is not typically part of a sew-along.

              Project

              An unstructured summer blouse. Your progress during the sew-along will be up to you.

              Materials

              Supplies that students need to bring: 

              • At least two yards of light-weight fabric with coordinating thread
              • Your sewing machine with a fresh needle appropriate for your fabric and thread (or reserve one of BARN’s machines)
              • Your sewing tools (or borrow BARN’s): scissors and cutting tools, pins or clips, and measuring and marking tools
              • Pattern paper, rulers, and other tools for pattern-making are available at BARN.
              Prerequisites

              None for the sew-along, but if you're reserving a BARN sewing machine, you must have completed any session of Learn How to Use the Fiber Studio Sewing Machines or Orientation to Fiber Sewing Machines.

              Class Policies

              Instructor
              Billee Gearheard is a founding BARN board member and a supporter of many studios. She identifies as a "dabbler,” enjoying the challenges and fun of learning new skills while not feeling the need to be an expert in any. Billee says, “It's all about the fun of just trying it.”


              • Monday, June 19, 2023
              • Monday, June 26, 2023
              • 2 sessions
              • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code FI061923BH
              • 10
              Register

              Knitters - learn how to create your own color motif.

              About this Class 

              Have you ever seen something that you wished could be incorporated into your knitting? Flowers? Geometric designs? Why buy a pattern when you can design your own? In this class you will create your own colorwork motif using graph paper, knit a small sample, and then adapt that motif to become a custom cowl pattern. Class discussions will include color choice, scale, and adapting designs for gauge.

              Details

                • Experience level: Intermediate. You should have some experience with colorwork in knitting
                • A $15 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers handouts, graph paper, and colored pencil. See "Materials" below for what students need to bring.

                  Project

                  Each student will leave with a pattern adapted for their motif by slightly modifying the stitch count and adjusting the pattern repeat. 

                  Materials

                  Students should bring:   

                  • Two skeins of worsted weight yarn (different colors for colorwork), 

                  • Size 8 16” circular needle

                  Class Policies

                    Instructor

                    Betsy Hagestedt had been working with fiber since elementary school, having learned to sew and knit from her mom. As an anthropologist, she uses her fiber practice as to connect with people from other cultures, embracing the universal nature of fiber arts. Knitting gradually became her specialization due its portability as she began to travel the world. She has lived in the UK and Canada, visited parts of Asia and Europe, and traveled extensively in South America. Now she designs knitwear patterns and loves to learn new techniques to expand her skills even further. When she is not knitting she can be found reading, practicing archery, or working with animals, and is always looking for new hobbies. Her Instagram feed is behestknits. 


                    • Monday, June 19, 2023
                    • Monday, December 18, 2023
                    • 6 sessions
                    • BARN Fiber Studio
                    • 10
                    Register

                    Spend your Monday afternoons immersed in fiber and friendship!

                    About this Class

                    This "class" is not about instruction, but it is about grabbing your knitting and heading to BARN. Share your projects and plan your next one. Explore new ideas, finish projects and see what fellow knitters are making.

                    Details

                    • Drop-ins are welcome but register to be notified of the event.
                    • Free to members, $10 drop-in fee for guests.

                    Class Policies

                    Host

                    Betsy Hagestedt had been working with fiber since she was in elementary school, having learned to sew and knit from her mom. As an anthropologist, she uses her fiber practice as a means of connecting with people from other cultures, embracing the universal nature of the fiber arts. Knitting gradually became her specialization due its portability as she began to travel around the world. You can see some of her fiber experiments on her Instagram feed at behestknits.

                    • Tuesday, June 20, 2023
                    • 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
                    • BARN Fiber Studio
                    • 0
                    Join waitlist

                    Get to know our Baby Lock Solaris 2 Embroidery Machine working one-on-one with a studio volunteer.

                    About this Class

                    Hoop and embroider a couple of the designs that are among the hundreds that come loaded on the machine in this two-hour tutorial.

                    Leave the session ready to explore more of the machine’s dazzling number of functions and knowing how to leave the machine clean and ready for the next embroiderer.

                    Check out our Embroidery Machine Skills series to build your repertoire on the Solaris 2.

                    Details

                    • materials fee to cover fabric, stabilizer, and embroidery and bobbin thread is included in the cost of the class.
                    • Note: While this session is scheduled for two hours, you may finish more quickly depending on what designs you choose.

                    Prerequisites

                    Class Policies

                    Instructor

                    Rotating Fiber Studio Volunteers

                    • Wednesday, June 21, 2023
                    • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
                    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI062123AM
                    • 5
                    Register

                    Use fabric scraps to sew up a reusable fabric garland to string up and brighten your next celebration.

                    About this Class

                    Learn how to make a beautiful reusable fabric garland from fabric scraps, perfect to brighten up any celebration.

                    If you’re nervous about trying to make something by hand, or don’t consider yourself very “artsy,” this is the perfect class for you. With only a straight stitch, you will be able to make a handmade fabric garland to hang in your house or backyard at your next event. Bring holiday fabric scraps to make a garland with a specific theme or use whatever fabrics you like to make a “celebratory” garland that could be used at any event or holiday! This is a wonderful scrap busting project. Use up all those pesky little pieces of fabric that have accumulated that you’re not sure what to do with, but you don’t want to throw away.

                    Details

                    Skill Level: Beginner

                    Project

                    You will walk out of class with a handmade fabric garland to string up at your next celebration.

                    Materials

                    A $10 materials fee included in the cost of the class covers all needed materials.

                    Class Policies

                    Instructor

                    Alex McKeon believes creativity is inherent in us all. She brings creativity and enthusiasm to the fiber studio.  She loves helping students tap into their inner artist and learning more about themselves in the process. Whether at the loom or exploring with needle and thread, Alex inspires all who work with her.

                    • Thursday, June 22, 2023
                    • Friday, June 23, 2023
                    • 2 sessions
                    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI062223DG
                    • 8
                    Register

                    Build stencil and print skills while engaging in structured play exercises alongside friends and fellow fiber artists.

                    About this Class

                    Build stenciling and print skills in a fun and engaging atmosphere of spontaneous, grown-up play. Using high-quality stencils, fabric paint, sponges, brushes, fabric pens, and other printing tools, you will lay technical foundations of structured surface design work on textiles while freeing up your creative energies. You will experiment with heavy and thin textures, and light and dark fabric colors. You are invited to bring one or two garment pieces from your wardrobe as a foundation for combined printing and collage. A plain, white cotton T-shirt can be turned into a work of art, and add a building block to your surface design techniques.

                    Details:

                    • Skill Level: Beginning 

                    • Be sure to wear a big apron or clothes that can get messy.

                    • A $20 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers the fabric paints, additional specialty fabrics, stencils, and art tools the instructor will provide. See "Materials" below for what students can bring.

                    • Bring lunch and a beverage. There is a refrigerator and microwave on the lower level.

                    Project

                    We will focus on creating 16” x 20” sample pieces, which are big enough to use for some finished work. Students who would like to work on larger pieces may bring their own yardage to cut. 

                    Materials

                    Students should bring:
                    • Basic sewing kit, including fabric scissors, straight pins, and quilting ruler
                    • Coordinated variety of fabric scraps that are meaningful to you, along with larger solid-color background pieces
                    • A variety of solid color fabrics, 16” x 20” (working larger is optional; if you choose to, bring the fabric you want to work with)
                    • A variety of hand-stitching threads and needles with eyes to fit the thread
                    • Sketch notebook, pen

                    Class Policies

                    Instructor

                    Diana Gipson is a fiber artist and teacher who began sewing at an early age. After raising a family, she obtained a bachelor's degree in sculpture and ceramics, and a master's degree in fiber art with predominant interests in Japanese design techniques and textile surface design. Before moving to Washington, she taught Two- and Three-Dimensional Art, as well as Wearable Art for the Classroom at Boise State. She continues to create and teach Japanese Shibori, as well as fabric design and hand-dyeing. Her work has been shown in area  galleries, exhibitions, and wearable art shows. She was commissioned to design and execute Shibori-stitched and dyed coordinated vestments for the Episcopal Church in Port Townsend. She lives on Mercer Island.
                    • Thursday, June 22, 2023
                    • 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
                    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI062223FF
                    • 1
                    Register

                    Make a pillow slip cover in this class - one of five "Learn to Sew" classes that teach sewing skills through simple projects.

                    About this Class

                    Our Learn to Sew classes were designed for anyone new to sewing, to gain new skills and have good practices reinforced. Skills covered in this class include cutting with a rotary cutter, sewing with a consistent seam allowance, looking at the typical "order of operations" for a sewing project, and gaining more confidence using a sewing machine.

                    Projects in this series included a drawstring bag (focusing on making a casing and buttonholes) in March, a simple tote bag (focused on sewing a larger project and applying a magnetic snap) in April, an apron (how to apply bias binding and topstitch) in early May and this pillow class, offered during the day in May, and during the evening June (this class!).

                    Details:

                    • Skill Level: Beginner

                    • A $35 materials fee, included in the cost of the class, covers light-weight upholstery fabric, zipper, thread, and pillow form.
                    • Registration closes June 18.

                    Project

                    A 14-inch pillow, learning how to sew heavier fabric, and how to install a zipper.

                    Prerequisites

                    You must have completed Orientation to Fiber Sewing Machines

                    Class Policies

                    Instructor

                    Fran Fuller learned to sew when she was 6 or 7 from her mother, who was a precise, creative, and inspiring sewist and a very patient teacher. Fran sewed her own clothes through high school and college, and now she sews clothing, home decorating items, and bags.

                    • Saturday, June 24, 2023
                    • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
                    • BARN Fiber Studio FI062423FF
                    • 4
                    Register

                    Get certified to use the Baby Lock Presto 2 sewing machines in the Fiber Studio.

                    About this Class

                    This class also serves as a prerequisite for Fiber Studio workshops, sew-alongs, and other events where you'd like to use these machines and for working on your own projects any time you’re in the studio. It is also a prerequisite for orientations for other sewing machines in the studio.

                    Presto 2 machines are easy to use and have many functions. This class guides you through basic machine use including:

                    • Opening and setting up the cabinet
                    • Winding the bobbin and threading
                    • Using the control panel to select stitches and set other functions
                    • Selecting and replacing presser feet to match your stitch selection
                    • Changing the needle
                    • Finding more information about the machine in the reference guide and on the Internet

                    We’ll end the class with a checklist for putting your machine away so it’s ready for the next person.

                    Details

                    • Note: This class is about the Baby Lock Presto 2 sewing machines, not the industrial sewing machine or embroidery machine. We will not focus on learning to sew, although learning to use the machines is a great start!
                    • Skill level: All levels

                    Class Policies

                    Instructors

                    Rotating Fiber Studio Volunteers

                    • Saturday, June 24, 2023
                    • 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM
                    • BARN Fiber Studio, Class Code: FI
                    • 8
                    Register