2026/27 Workshop and Presentations

July 18/19, 2026 - The Weft Ikat Sampler - Mary Zicafoose - In this workshop students will create a weft Ikat sampler illustrating the motifs created by ten different Japanese kasuri weft ikat wrapping and weaving techniques.

September 18, 2026 - Forest Floor Journal Cover - Kathy Forzley - In this workshop students will make a textured journal cover reminiscent of a woodland walk. The instructor will demonstrate the basic method of preparing the wool base and discuss techniques before adding layers of wool, silk, art yarns, specialty fibers and other embellishments to create a textured journal cover. Once the layout is complete students will add soapy water and finish the process suing wet felting techniques.
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September 19, 2026 - Painting With Wool - Kathy Forzley - Unleash your inner Monet and learn how to create a beautiful impressionist-style painting using wool fiber and wet finishing felting techniques. Using a photo of your choice for inspiration, you will crate a simple flower design, floral still life, landscape, or seascape scene. 

2025 Workshops

Sakiori - Janney Simpson

Northern Michigan is home to Janney Simpson so it wasn't too far of a drive for her to teach our summer Sakiori workshop. Sakiori is a Japanese technique of weaving which uses strips of fabric, such as old rags and recycled material, woven in canvas and plain weave to create functional items. Janney taught the class to cut their fabric in a manner that creates long weft material. Members created visually stunning fabric which was later sewn into clothing and handbags!

iKat - Mary Zicafoose

In July of 2025, our guild welcomed world renowned fiber artist, Mary Zicafoose. Mary is a contemporary ikat artist and she creates gorgeous tapestries in her studio in Omaha, Nebraska. Fortunately for us, Mary has ties in Northern Michigan and visits our area every summer. This past year our guild hosted a three day workshop where Mary taught members the technique of resist dyeing known as ikat. Members were taught specific warp shifting techniques to create patterns and high contrast designs in a woven scarf.  We just can't wait until Mary visits our area again in 2026!