Ref: SLW29695
The Japanese crafts of Katagami (stencil cutting) and Katazome (dyeing using stencils) are ancient ones in Japan, with craftsmen making the most delicate and detailed patterns and representations of nature and Japanese life on fabric.
Katagami stencils are made from Japanese washi paper, soaked and bonded together using the aged juice of the Persimmon fruit and then dried and smoked to create an almost entirely waterproof paper, ideal for stencil work.
On the first day, you will use your own designs to cut up to three paper stencils, using Kakishibugami stencil paper provided by the tutor, who will then attach a synthetic mesh to them using lacquer, ready for use the next day. You will learn how to make and apply the traditional rice paste used as a resist, and start to use the tutor’s modern and vintage Japanese stencils, using indigo dye. The tutor will explain how to set up and maintain an indigo vat for dyeing your work.
On the second day, you can use your own cut stencils and practise pattern matching with the tutor’s stencils to create larger patterns, as would have been traditional in Japan.
There will also be time to experiment with overlaying stencils and other effects, using soy milk and pigments. Nori tsutsu paper cones will be available for those who wish to try piping designs on their fabric.
Your tutor will also explain about the history of Katagami stencilling in Japan, the four types of stencil cutting techniques and show you his collection of vintage stencils.
You should leave with the skills to cut and dye with your own stencils at home.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Rob Jones is a textile artist, who takes his inspiration from Japanese Textiles traditions including Shibori, Katagami stencilling and Sashiko embroidery and Boro. He began his study in 2011 at West Dean on short courses and then undertook an intensive course with Bryan Whitehead in Japan in the autumn of 2014. Rob has been a full time textiles designer and teacher since September 2015.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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