Join us for an afternoon of colour and exploration on silk under the guidance of Simin-designer and artist of SoulSilk. Our workshops are designed to be accessible for those with no prior learning experience and an avenue to learn a new skill within a supportive environment.
So book in with a friend, a workmate or come solo and make memories while learning a new craft.
Skill Level: The workshop is suited for anyone with a desire to learn about silk painting, some ability to draw is desirable but not essential.
About the workshop:
In this workshop you will learn from experienced textile artist and designer Simin, who will take you through the skills and techniques required to hand paint a unique design onto a silk scarf (Foulard). You will learn a brief history of this Chinese method of silk painting and will explore techniques to enable you to bring your design alive. Simin will show you possibilities of creative ways in which to use gutta resist, silk dyes and texturing mediums such as sugar, salt and alcohol onto silk that is stretched flat on a purpose-built frame.
There will be design templates available to choose from or you are welcome to bring your own ideas- Simin will provide guidance throughout the workshop to help you achieve your design. Silk painting is a multi-step process and, you scarf will be steam fixed offsite to make the scarf wash resistant and wearable for years to come! The scarf will then be posted to you the following week.
Included in your workshop ticket:
- A blank silk scarf (Foulard) ready to paint by you (50x50cm)
- Teaching, instructions, guidance and support from an experienced facilitator
- 2-3 design templates to choose from if you wish
- All equipment, tools and materials required
- The use of a purpose built silk painting frame for the duration of the workshop
- Silk dyes, gutta resist and painting tools
- Texture exploration mediums- salt, sugar and alcohol
- Steam fixing offsite of your finished product by Simin after the workshop
- Finished scarves posted to you the week after the workshop
- Light refreshments
What to bring:
- Clothes that can get dirty or an apron
- Closed in shoes
- Your own painting ideas if you wish
- Sketch book or notepad
About the Designer:
Simin Contractor is a graphic designer turned textile artist and the creative force behind SoulSilk, a hand painted silk accessories and resort wear brand with a mission to add elegance, fun and flair to your everyday wardrobe. Simin wanted to move away from printing and mass-produced scarves and offer hand painted designs with a unique personal charm.
Silk is Simin’s material of choice, prized for its breathability and being a natural fibre, light in summer and warm in winter, making silk scarves a year round choice of wearable accessories in our Australian Climate
Simin’s work is available at the Sydney Opera House stores and The Garden Shop (Royal Botanical Gardens, Sydney) which holds a selection of her Terra Australis Collection- most coveted designs inspired by native Australian flora.
SoulSilk designs are also available locally at Artisan Store, Brisbane and online at www.soulsilk.co