Paint on Washi & Create a Small Pouch

Learn how to use konnyaku to strengthen washi. Explore different painting techniques. Learn tricks on how to hand-stitch the treated papers. At the end of this workshop, each student will have created at least one small pouch and several washi experiments to inspire future work. Two different reusable patterns will be provided.

All washi, supplies, and required tools will be provided.

Participants are asked to bring:

• a notebook and pen
• an apron, or dress to get messy
• your lunch
• a small piece of fabric to line the pouch: up-cycle a pillowcase or a dress shirt (optional)

Schedule:

Morning - Learn how to mix and apply konnyaku to washi in different ways. Learn how to alter acrylic paint to create washes of colour to create rich surfaces.

Afternoon - Apply more konnyaku to selected washi. Learn a few tricks on how to stitch washi by hand. Learn how to use the patterns provided to create small washi pouches. Two different patterns will be provided. In class we will create a small pouch to hold credit cards, transit passes and/or business cards. We will also start to construct the larger pouch that you will be able to finish after the class.

About Loree Ovens:

Loree works in a variety of media, as a printmaker she creates works on paper that are reminiscent of old documents, aged textiles or barkcloth. She specializes with intaglio techniques, especially that of copper etching, aquatint, dry point and collagraph. She works with Japanese Washi in both printmaking and painting. Often combining the use of surface design techniques for textiles, Loree’s fascination with line, pattern, and architecture continue to inspire her work.

​Loree has shown in national and international exhibitions in Canada, Japan, United States, Taiwan, Australia and Scotland. Her work is part of both private and public collections including the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada, Art Gallery of New South Wales and SGC International.

Loree is represented by Open Studio, Propeller Art Gallery, L.A. Pai Art & Jewelry Gallery, Guildworks and Craft Ontario.

​https://www.loreeovens.com/

Host or Publisher The Japanese Paper Place