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WORKSHOPS



Local Cloth Workshops span the full spectrum of fiber arts from weaving to felting, sewing, jewelry making, knitting, basket-making, crocheting, paper-making, dyeing, spinning and more! We offer half-day, full-day and multi-day options. All in-person workshops, unless otherwise noted, take place at the Local Cloth Studio located at 408 Depot Street, #100 in Asheville, NC. Free parking is available on Depot Street and across the street in the parking lot. Local Cloth members receive a discount and advance notice of workshop releases.

POLICIES + RESOURCES

SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarships are available for members of Local Cloth.  We offer a maximum of $100 dollars per workshop. The Local Cloth Scholarship Committee reviews applications on the first of the month and will let you know by email if your application is approved. Scholarships do not include materials fees.


Click here to complete the application.

WORKSHOP CANCELLATION POLICY

+ If your notice of withdrawal is received at least 14 days before the start of your workshop, you will receive a refund of the workshop cost, minus a $10 processing fee. 
+ There is no refund of workshop or processing fees if your notice of withdrawal is received less than 14 days before the start of your workshop. We will gladly provide you with a receipt for your donation to Local Cloth.
+ If a class is cancelled due to low enrollment or an unforeseen circumstance with the instructor, you will be issued a full refund and be notified prior to the start of your workshop
+ Virtual classes have a no cancellation policy. If a class is recorded, we will send you the video to view at your leisure.

+ To cancel a registration or for questions, email workshops@localcloth.org.

INCLEMENT

WEATHER POLICY

In the case of bad weather, Local Cloth will follow the closure decision of AB Tech. You can find this information on the WLOS website.

COVID-19 POLICY

Local Cloth follows the latest CDC Guidelines which suggest "returning to normal activities when, for at least 24 hours, symptoms are improving overall; and if a fever was present, it has been gone without use of a fever-reducing medication." Once activities are resumed, the CDC still recommends "additional prevention strategies" for an additional five days, including wearing a mask and keeping distance from others.

TEACHING

AT LOCAL CLOTH

You must be a member of Local Cloth to teach a Local Cloth Workshop. Click here learn more.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

    • 14 May 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 6
    Register


    The color wheel cushion is as practical as it is eye-catching. Use it as a supportive prop for yoga or meditation, a comfortable floor cushion, or a bold decorative accent that adds handmade warmth to any space. Its sculptural shape and vibrant wedges turn simple knitting into functional art, making it a project that lives equally well in a studio, living room, or quiet corner for rest.

    Made with 160g of DK yarn. 8 x10g for the front and 80g for the back. Bring your own yarn colors or choose from kits curated especially for this workshop.

    You will need to know, or will learn the following techniques:

    • Short rows

    • Kitchener stitch

    • Mattress stitch

    The pattern provided in this class is ColourWheel Cushion by Rebecca Glazier of Wild West Dyes.


    Level: Intermediate

    Age Range: Adults

    Instructor: Lisa Sandberg (Read Lisa's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: $$25 for pattern and pillow form. Additional $60 for yarn kit add-on - cash, venmo, or paypal (paid the day of workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor: Printed copy of the pattern, 17" pillow form insert, yarn kits available

    Students should bring: 160 grams DK yarn (8 colors x 10g each for the front and 80g of an additional color for the back), US 7 knitting needles, locking stitch markers, tapestry needle and scissors.

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 16 May 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Camille Daunno's Home in Weaverville: Directions provided in registration confirmation
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    In this class you will learn how to draw flowers, leaves, twigs and tendrils in pencil and ink. I will teach you how to create texture, contrast and composition using line and shading. This can be applied to your textile, fabric skills, embroidery, sewing, fiber art, layering and much more. This class is designed for beginners, so no experience is necessary. Come learn a new technique or improve on your drawing skills.

    This class will be hosted off-site at the home of the instructor. Directions to the home will be provided after registration.

    Skill Level: All

    Instructor: Camille Daunno (Read Camille's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non-members: $120

    Materials Fee: $15 (collected at time of workshop)

    Materials Provided by instructor: Pencils, ink markers, erasers, paper, practice paper, Art resource to draw from, drawing vellum, tracing paper, practice drawing pad and Art handouts.

    Student should bring: Nothing, all supplies will be given out at the first class

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 16 May 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    Discover the speed, comfort, and fluid rhythm of Continental knitting in this comprehensive full-day beginner workshop. Whether you’re completely new to knitting or looking to switch from English (throwing) style, this class will guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals of efficient, ergonomic knitting.

    What You’ll Learn

    • Over the course of six hands-on hours, you will learn:
    • How to comfortably tension yarn in your left hand
    • The Continental knit stitch (“picking” technique)
    • The Continental purl stitch
    • How to combine knit and purl stitches to create basic stitch patterns
    • Casting on and binding off
    • Reading simple knitting instructions and abbreviations
    • How to correct the most common beginner mistakes

    Class Structure

    This workshop is paced for absolute beginners—no prior knitting experience required. We’ll work in short guided segments with plenty of time for practice, troubleshooting, and individual help. By the end of the day, students will complete a small sampler project using both knit and purl stitches.

    Who This Class Is For

    Perfect for brand-new knitters, crocheters exploring knitting, or experienced English-style knitters interested in learning the Continental method.

    Takeaway

    Students leave with a completed sampler swatch, strong foundational skills, and the confidence to tackle beginner patterns using Continental techniques.


    Level: Beginner

    Instructor: Lisa Sandberg (Read Lisa's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: $10 cash, venmo, zelle, paypal, or cashapp (paid the day of workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor: 

    25 grams of yarn per knitted sampler. (1 required, additional available for further home practice)

    Students should bring: One set of size US 7-9 (4.5-5.5mm) circular knitting needle with a cord at least 12in. Scissors, tapestry needle and glasses if needed. Optional: stitch markers.

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 22 May 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 7
    Register


    Mend or embellish your clothing with felting!

    In this class I’ll teach you how to needle felt a design on a garment, then wet felt it to strengthen the design and make it durable. We’ll start by needle felting with a barbed needle to tangle wool roving into the fabric of your garment until it’s completely flat on one side, then we’ll wet felt the design to tangle together the fluffy fibers on the inside, and further mat down the fibers on the outside. This reduces pilling and creates a long-lasting design.

    You’ll have the option to use my washaway templates and create fruit designs: strawberry, lemon, avocado or apple, OR you can create your own design and experiment. I’ll have a variety of wool colours available to choose from.

    This technique can be used to repair holes, cover up stains, or bring life to an old garment. Please bring a garment or fabric to felt on that is knit or woven, at least twice as thick as a t-shirt and can be hand washed. Wool sweaters are easiest to felt on, and other less grippy materials may take longer to integrate the wool into. Thinner materials such as t-shirts tend to get holes when felted with the sharp barbed needle, but if you don’t mind possible damage you can bring a thinner material as well. I will have a few sweaters available to purchase for $15 each at the class.

    Level: Beginner

    Age Range: Adults, Teens (13-18), Kids (8-12, accompanied by adult)

    Instructor: Emma DuBois (Read Emma's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non-Members: $60

    Materials fee: $10 and optional $15 sweater paid via cash, check, venmo, or card (collected at time of workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor: Wool, felting needles, felting pads, wash away stabilizer templates, garbage bags (to protect a surface when wet felting, and carry home a wet project in), soap.

    Students should bring:  A garment or fabric to felt on that is knit or woven is at least twice as thick as a t-shirt and can be hand washed will work. Wool sweaters are easiest to felt on, and other materials may take longer to integrate the wool into. Thinner materials such as t-shirts tend to get holes when felted with the sharp barbed needle, but if you don’t mind possible damage you can bring a thinner material as well. I will have a few sweaters available to purchase for $15 each at the class.

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 23 May 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 0
    Join waitlist


    A Hands-On Introduction to Electric Spinning Wheels

    Curious about electric spinning wheels? In this engaging three-hour workshop, students will have the opportunity to explore the exciting world of e-spinning in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment. Participants will receive hands-on experience with three different brands of electric spinning wheels, allowing time to compare features, spinning styles, and overall feel. We will cover basic wheel setup, fiber handling, drafting techniques, and how adjustments such as speed and tension influence yarn creation. No prior spinning experience is required. All materials and equipment will be provided. Come discover how the quiet hum of an electric wheel can transform fiber into beautiful handmade yarn.


    Level: Beginner

    Age Range: Adults & Teens (13-18)

    Instructor: Lisa Sandberg (Read Lisa's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non Members: $60

    Materials fee: No materials fee for this workshop

    Materials provided by instructor: 3 different brands of e-spinners and fiber for hands on experience

    Students should bring: N/A

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 27 May 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC
    • 5
    Register


    Start where it actually begins — with freshly shorn (dirty) wool.

    In **Fleece to Fiber**, we begin with raw, unwashed fleece and walk step-by-step through the transformation into usable yarn. This is a hands-on, practical class designed to build real confidence working with wool in its natural state.

    You won’t just hear about the process — you’ll do it.

    We Begin With Cleaning

    Each participant will receive**raw, unwashed wool** to practice

    * Cleaning

    * Washing/scouring techniques that clean without felting

    * Proper temperature control and handling

    * Drying methods

    Spinning in the Grease

    Before everything is perfectly washed and fluffy, we’ll explore **spinning in the grease**: This gives you a real understanding of fiber behavior at different stages.

    Carding Clean Wool

    You will also receive **cleaned wool** to practice:

    * Opening and fluffing fiber aka picking & flicking

    * Combing & Hand carding

    You’ll feel the difference between raw, washed, and fully prepared fiber — which is the key to discovering what kind of yarn you want to create.

    From Fiber to Usable Product

    We’ll finish by drafting and spinning prepared fiber into yarn using:

    * Drop spindle (great for beginners)

    * Spinning wheel (bring your own)

    What You’ll Leave With

    * Hands-on experience cleaning raw fleece

    * Practice spinning both in the grease and from fiber you prepare

    * Carded wool ready for spinning

    * Confidence to process those fleeces you've been eyeing on your own

    No prior experience required. All materials provided.

    There is something deeply satisfying about working from fleece to finished fiber. Once you understand the whole process, you’ll never look at yarn the same way again.

    Level: Beginner

    Age Range: Adults, Teens (13-18), Kids (8-12)

    Instructor: Kirsten Bonanza (Read Kirsten's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: $40 cash or venmo (to be paid day of the workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor:  Unwashed fleece, Washed fleece, soap, a mesh bag, a variety of carders and combs (to borrow)

    Students should bring: Please bring drop spindles, and/or cards/ combs if you have them

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    • 30 May 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 1
    Register


    This hands-on workshop introduces knitters to working in the round using the magic loop method while reinforcing Continental-style knitting. Students will knit a brim-up hat using a simple, structured pattern designed for skill-building and confidence. The class covers circular needle setup, magic loop mechanics, joining in the round, knitting and purling in the round, and crown shaping using the k2tog decrease, which is taught as part of the workshop. Emphasis is placed on managing tension, avoiding ladders, and reading a basic knitting pattern. Students will practice decreases on a small swatch before applying them to the hat.

    This course is an ideal next step for students who have completed the Beginning Continental Knitting workshop, and it is also appropriate for knitters with equivalent experience. By the end of the workshop, students will understand how and when to use magic loop for small-circumference projects and will leave with a nearly completed or finished hat. 

    Level: Beginner (students must know how to cast on, knit, and purl using Continental style)

    Instructor: Lisa Sandberg (Read Lisa's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: No Materials fee for this workshop.

    Materials provided by instructor: None for this workshop.

    Students should bring: 100 grams worsted-weight yarn 30-40" circular needle, US 7 or US 8 Notions: stitch markers, tapestry needle Glasses, if needed

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 03 June 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 3
    Register


    Your life is filled with textiles made from various spun threads and yarns. Come learn one of the more early and meditative ways to spin yarn. Come join us for a fun and meditative day of learning to card and draft raw wool fleece into handspun yarn on a drop spindle. You will have a variety of options of wool to try. This is a great skill that you can easily take with you pretty much wherever you go. We will talk finishing and plying and you will get to take home whatever yarn you create.

    Level: Beginner

    Age Range: Adults and Teens (13-18)

    Instructor: Jamie Sparks (Read Jamie's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non-members: $60

    Materials Fee : $25 cash, venmo, zelle, or paypal (to be collected day of class)

    Instructor will provide: includes fiber, use of all tools to card and prep materials and a drop spindle to take home

    Students should bring: All materials will be provided.

    Learn about our COVID & cancellation policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 06 June 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Camille Daunno's Home in Weaverville: Directions provided in registration confirmation
    • 1
    Register


    This class will take your knowledge of color theory, mixing color and working with color in your chosen field to the next level. Some experience working with color is preferred but not necessary. You should be familiar with the color wheel and basic color combinations. This class will explore how to use and mix color combinations like split compliments , triadic colors, tertiary colors and more. You will make a color journal of all the experiments and color trials worked on in class. Most will be painted in gouache but you will have fun completing them making fabric and fiber collages. Challenge your creativity, explore what you can do and have a great experience while you’re learning much more about the world of color. Color is a foundation principle of Art and design no matter what your related field of expertise is. I’m Looking forward to sharing what you already know with what you are about to learn.

    This class will be hosted off-site at the home of the instructor. Directions to the home will be provided after registration.

    Skill Level: Intermediate

    Age Range: Adults & Teens (13-18)

    Instructor: Camille Daunno (Read Camille's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non-members: $120

    Materials Fee: $20 cash or venmo (collected at time of workshop)

    Materials Provided by instructor: Paper, a set of gouache, a set of brushes, materials to create a collage, glue, scissors, boards to work on, some fabric swatches, ribbon, pre made journals to complete color wheels, mixing palettes.

    Student should bring: Lunch as there will be a break. Fabric swatches, colored paper or tissue paper to create a collage.

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 06 June 2026
    • 07 June 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 7
    Register


    A tannin is almost always a prerequisite to mordanting cellulose for natural dyes. Besides immersion and block or screen printing, a new method is available to natural dyers. With immersion, only one tannin is used. With printing, several different tannins can be used at different concentrations in the same fabric, We will print tannins by marbling them, then mordant with an aluminum salt and go on to dye and/or treat in iron. Students should have some familiarity with natural dyeing on cellulose.

    Level: Intermediate

    Age Range: Adults

    Instructor: Eileen Hallman (Read Eileen's bio) 

    Members: $200

    Non members: $240

    Materials fee: $25 cash, check, or card (to be collected day of class)

    Materials provided by instructor: Cotton fabrics, tannin inks, marbling size, tools, misc supplies

    Materials students should bring: Apron with a pocket, small rag or towel for your pocket, cookie sheet, plastic bag for damp goods

    Optional: It would be helpful to bring an old cookie sheet either painted white or with a white plastic liner. If you have a squeegee for your shower, bring it.

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 09 June 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 2
    Register


    Felt a life size newborn kitten. We will be sculpting with wool to make a 3 dimensional shape and adding features to give it a lifelike appearance. This kitten will fit in the palm of your hand and will go home with you. This workshop will give you the skills you need to create other small felted creatures. You will take home your foam felting pad some needles and extra wool to begin another critter of you choosing.

    Level: Intermediate

    Age Range: Adults

    Instructor: Claudia Lemacks (Read Claudia's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non-Members: $60

    Materials fee: $20 cash, venmo, or card (collected at time of workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor: I will supply a felting pad (bring your own if you have one. I will have all the wool colors necessary for sculpting a kitten, I also bring extra needles and photos to help with the design.

    Students should bring:  Bring a mug for coffee or tea, and a snack for yourself or to share.

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 11 June 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 4
    Register

    Learn the fun, portable craft of backstrap card weaving. With just a few simple tools, you’ll be able to create strong, attractive woven bands for hatbands, belts, straps, and more. In this class, you’ll learn the basics, make solid progress or even finish your first project, and leave with the tools and know-how to continue your card-weaving journey.

    Level: Beginner

    Age Range: Adults

    Instructor: Jamie Sparks (Read Jamie's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non-members: $120

    Materials Fee : $25 cash, venmo, zelle, or paypal (to be collected day of class)

    Instructor will provide: includes your handouts, yarn, cards, heddle and use of other tools

    Students should bring: A larger belt to easily get in and out of (if you have one), a cushion to sit on if you desire (lots of sitting!), reading glasses if you need them. Feel free to bring colored pencils or markers if you want

    Learn about our COVID & cancellation policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 14 June 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 3
    Register


    Learn this traditional multi-signature book which uses one of the oldest stitches in bookbinding called the Coptic Stitch. The spine is exposed showing the lovely regular stitches using pairs of needles. It is a simple and lovely way to bind a book. We will use a pad of mixed media paper which makes the preparation of the pages simple and quick. The finished book will be 6 X 4.5 inches. If you have some experience with hand sewing a book and you'd like to make a bigger book, please let me know. There will be a variety of eco-printed, marbled and paste papers for you to use or you can bring your own paper if you prefer.


    Level: Intermediate

    Age Range: Adults and Teens (13-18)

    Instructor: Joyce Tromba (Read Joyce's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: $20 cash (paid the day of workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor: All materials and tools will be supplied by instructor.

    Students should bring: None

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 20 June 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 3
    Register


    Slip Into Mosaic Knitting — No Charts Required Create striking colorwork using simple slip-stitch techniques — one color at a time.

    Ready to explore colorwork without juggling multiple strands or reading charts? In this workshop, students will learn the fundamentals of mosaic knitting while creating a cozy single-loop cowl. Mosaic knitting uses simple slip-stitch techniques to create bold, graphic patterns while working with only one color per round. This makes it an approachable and confidence-building introduction to colorwork.

    • During class, students will focus on:
    • understanding mosaic stitch structure
    • managing yarn tension for slipped stitches
    • reading and tracking written pattern repeats
    • recognizing and correcting common mistakes
    • developing a comfortable knitting rhythm in the round

    By the end of class, students will have a strong foundation in mosaic knitting and the skills needed to confidently complete their cowl at home.

    Skill Level - Advanced Beginner and beyond

    Students should already be comfortable:

    • casting on joining to knit in the round working ribbing using either magic loop or a circular needle

    Homework Requirement

    To ensure we can spend our class time focused on mosaic techniques, students are required to arrive with the following completed:

    • yarn selected stitches cast on
    • work joined in the round
    • ribbing section completed

    Students who need assistance with homework are encouraged to reach out prior to class

    What Students Will Learn

    • how mosaic knitting creates colorwork using slip stitches
    • how to maintain even tension when slipping stitches
    • how to follow written mosaic instructions (no charts required)
    • how to troubleshoot common issues in mosaic knitting

    Additional Notes

    This class focuses on written instructions rather than charts, making it an ideal next step for knitters who are comfortable knitting in the round and ready to explore colorwork in an approachable way.

    Level: Intermediate


    Age Range: Adults

    Instructor: Lisa Sandberg (Read Lisa's bio)

    Members: $100

    Non Members: $120

    Materials fee: No Materials fee for this workshop.

    Materials provided by instructor: Project pattern

    Students should bring: Worsted weight yarn in two contrasting colors 24" circular needle or 40" circular for magic loop (US 7–8) Stitch markers Tapestry needle Scissors Pattern (provided)

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    • 27 June 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
    • Camille Daunno's Home in Weaverville: Directions provided in registration confirmation
    • 5
    Register


    Learn this fun technique and your imagination will do the rest. The possibilities , design and application will create gorgeous patterns, from just a few colors and single design to overlays and multiple patterns. Print note carts, make an Art print ready to hang, or print your own quilt squares or pieces of fabric to sew. You can print journal covers or just have fun experimenting. 

    This class will be hosted off-site at the home of the instructor. Directions to the home will be provided after registration.

    Skill Level: Beginner

    Instructor: Camille Daunno (Read Camille's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non-members: $60

    Materials Fee: $10 cash or venmo (collected at time of workshop)

    Materials Provided by instructor: Acrylic paint, silcone mats to work on, paper for test prints, Brayers, stencils, fabric squares 3 Gelli plates to share

    Student should bring: Gelli plate, extra fabric squares, stencil of choice, apron, lunch for a break

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policies here: Workshop Policies

    • 08 July 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC
    • 12
    Register


    What if the fibers from animals that are often considered waste could become one of the most useful tools in your garden? This lecture-based class explores how natural fibers like sheep wool and alpaca can be used to build healthier, more resilient soil systems. You’ll learn the “why” behind fiber use, along with practical ways to integrate it into your garden, from mulch to full forest garden layering systems. The class includes: A booklet that you can take home A live demonstration of how to apply and layer fiber in garden beds A small hands-on activity so you can feel and work with the material yourself Clear guidance on using fiber for moisture retention, soil building, and plant support Perfect for gardeners, homesteaders, and anyone interested in regenerative practices and working more in partnership with the land.

    Level: Beginner

    Instructor: Kirsten Bonanza (Read Kirsten's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non Members: $60

    Materials fee: $10 cash, check, venmo, or zelle  (to be paid day of the workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor:  All materials

    Students should bring: N/A

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    • 08 July 2026
    • 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio | 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC
    • 9
    Register


    Step into the quiet intelligence of the forest and learn the intuitive art of branch weaving. In this hands-on class, we’ll work with fallen branches and natural fibers to create simple woven forms—sculptural, functional, or symbolic—guided by the materials themselves. This is not about forcing nature into a design, but about listening: noticing the curve of a branch, the tension between fibers, and the way the forest already knows how it wants to be woven. You’ll learn basic branch-weaving techniques, how to select and prepare materials, and how to let structure emerge organically rather than from a rigid plan. Expect a slow, grounding experience that blends craft, mindfulness, and relationship with place. No prior weaving experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to work with what’s present.

    Level: Beginner

    Instructor: Kirsten Bonanza (Read Kirsten's bio)

    Members: $50

    Non Members: $60

    Materials fee: $20 cash, check, venmo, or zelle  (to be paid day of the workshop)

    Materials provided by instructor:  Branches, yarn, and tapestry needle

    Students should bring: Scissors, and any yarn scraps that you might want to include (optional)

    Interested in applying for a scholarship? Apply here!

    Learn about our COVID policy here: Workshop Policies

    • 11 July 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 4
    Register


    Kugurizashi is a fascinating variation within the tradition of Sashiko. Instead of creating pattern solely through running stitches, kugurizashi adds a second stage in which thread is woven through an existing stitched grid, producing richly dimensional designs that can resemble braids, beads, or interlaced cords. In this 6-hour workshop, fiber artists will learn how a simple stitched grid becomes the foundation for layered patterning. After a brief introduction, students will mark and stitch a base grid using traditional sashiko running stitch, focusing on rhythm, spacing, and stitch consistency.

    Participants will then explore several weaving pathways that transform the same stitched structure into different decorative motifs.

    During the class, students will complete two stitched samples: a foundational kugurizashi pattern and a second variation that demonstrates how multiple designs can emerge from the same grid. Students will leave with two finished studies, practical techniques, and inspiration for incorporating kugurizashi into their own textile work.

    Level: Intermediate

    Members: $110

    Non members: $132

    Instructor: Gail Clement (Read Gail's bio)

    Materials fee: $40 cash or venmo (to be collected day of workshop)

    Materials supplied by teacher: Detailed Handout with Exercises; ironing equipment

    Materials students should bring: Embroidery snips, Sashiko palm thimble, needles & threader, needle minder or pin cushion

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policies here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in a workshop scholarship? Apply here!

    • 17 July 2026
    • 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 8
    Register


    This introductory class provides an overview of Sashiko, the Japanese stitching and mending practice. Through both structured demonstrations and individual stitching guidance, beginners gain basic skills and knowledge to apply this practice to both functional and decorative goods. Participants will explore the historical and geographic origins of Sashiko and also gain hands on experience stitching with Japanese needles, threads, and palm thimbles. This class is a prerequisite to the other classes in the series. After three practices exercises designed to cover basic skills, participants will gain confidence by stitching a preprinted Sashiko textile project that can be finished at home.

    Level: Beginner

    Members: $110

    Non members: $132

    Instructor: Gail Clement (Read Gail's bio)

    Materials fee: $45 cash or venmo (to be collected day of workshop)

    Materials supplied by teacher: Practice materials including 3 samples of various Sashiko fabrics, 3 samples of various Sashiko thread, and a project kit containing Sashiko needles, thread and preprinted fabric. Shared tools and notions for classroom use include Palm thimbles, stencils, metric rulers, marking tools.

    Materials students should bring: Embroidery snips

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policies here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in a workshop scholarship? Apply here!

    • 18 July 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
    • Local Cloth Studio 408 Depot Street, Asheville NC 28801
    • 8
    Register


    This beyond the basics workshop will guide Sashiko stitchers in creating 2” x 6” Sashiko stitched pieces for Local Cloth’s Waterline Project.Together we will transfer and stitch your choice of three designs based on the sketches of Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai representing water, waves, fish, and boats. Beyond-the-basics skills practiced in this workshop include transferring designs three ways (light pad, washaway adhesives, and chalk paper tracing); techniques for vectorizing public domain art; and creating stitching plans for non-traditional patterns. Students who have completed the Sashiko With Beads class will also have an opportunity to add bugle beads to their projects.

    Level: Intermediate

    Members: $110

    Non members: $132

    Instructor: Gail Clement (Read Gail's bio)

    Materials fee: $40 cash or venmo (to be collected day of workshop)

    Materials supplied by teacher: Guide on Stitching from Public Domain Art; Cotton and linen fabrics, Sashiko threads including shiny lame

    Materials students should bring: Embroidery snips, pins, Sashiko needles and palm thimble

    Learn about our cancellation & COVID policies here: Workshop Policies

    Interested in a workshop scholarship? Apply here!



Address:

408 Depot Street, #100 | Asheville, NC 28801


828.774.5134 | Info@localcloth.org

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