AFTER A RATHER BUSY MONTH, I am losing patience with pop-up textile art experiences. I love meeting people, introducing them to the joys of yarn and making things. But, a pop-up event feels (ever so slightly) like shopping. The materials need to be prepared in such a way that folks who walk up can jump right in and be successful the first time they try.
Weaving on a tiny cardboard loom, or making a pompom out of yarn, or sewing pre-sewn holes in acrylic felt are all valuable in their own way. But, most kids express the same lack of satisfaction that I feel, “But, I am not done!” The kids with patient adults will stay right at my station until they are happy with their tiny rug or puffy pompom or felt bag.
Don’t get me wrong, Oil and Cotton keeps the lights on with our well-crafted art experiences. We are specialists in making young (and less young) artists feel satisfied. Now, in my old age, I would like to start hosting plop-down events.
I envision a big chunk of time, with snacks and conversation, wherein we explore, experiment, do and undo as needed. A time and space to leave and come back without necessarily finishing anything. What’s more, we can have multiple projects going and enjoy all the twists and turns together.
IN A PERFECT WORLD, we would gather in a sunlit glade with a gentle breeze. But, since this is Texas, the lovely space inside Oil and Cotton is best.
So, come PLOP-DOWN!
Membership in the Textile Studio will (hopefully) provide some time and space for this kind of gathering. Hours will begin with occasional Sunday afternoons 3-5pm, plus Wednesday and Thursday evenings 5-7pm. Read more here and let me know if you have any questions. Monthly and drop-in rates are available.
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