Embroidery and Temari Ball Classes

Over the summer, I came up with an idea for something that I want to make in the future (when my weaving skills improve!) which involves embroidery. Now, I have to share that other than basic chain stitch on a laptop case I made for my husband, I have not embroidered anythings since I was about 12 years old. Fast forward to last month: my friend, Kate, signed us up for an embroidery class at Stitches in Seattle. After two sessions with Kelly, I feel confident that I have the basics down. I definitely need a lot more practice (I almost did not share my wonky circles and uneven stitches), but I am on my way.  I am waiting for her to schedule an intermediate class, so I can continue to learn and go forward with the project that I have in mind.  

Last week, I took a class on how to make Japanese Temari balls with Marilyn Romatka of Taproot Folkarts at The Weaving Works. Marilyn is well-known in the Folk Arts community and the class was a lot of fun. Can you believe that the ball is entirely, and I mean entirely, made from yarn and thread? We spent a little over an hour making the core of ball - it seemed like endless winding, but was also pleasant at the same time - and then moved on to the decoration. One of my favorite parts was that she encouraged us to add a little sparkle to our projects. In case you haven't already noticed, I love sparkle!   

I would am planning to make another ball and it is also a great project for children. Marilyn teaches all over the United States, so check out her website for information on class and the other crafts that she teaches. 

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