Learn a new skill or rekindle an old passion as you see and do with world-renowned experts in design, weaving, felting, applique and knitting at Fibre Fest May 1, 2 and 3 at the Community Centre.
Fans can look forward to meeting Lucy Neatby, an internationally recognized teacher, designer and writer who thrills knitters around the world with her charm, knowledge and uniquely colourful designs. Neatby is the author of three books: Cool Socks Warm Feet; Cool Knitters Finish in Style; A Little Book of Big Holes for Hand-knitters and the Learn with Lucy DVD series.
Neatby will teach all three days and speak at the reception on Saturday evening. Her talk will be on “Seagoing Adventures in Knitting” where she will share her journeys on the East Coast and its influences on her knitting.
“We are very excited to have Lucy coming all the way from Nova Scotia to share her love and expertise of all things knitting!” says recreation programmer Judy Ridgway.
Teacher and designer Lynette Meek returns to Fibre Fest to teach and offer demonstrations again this year. Meek’s work is heavily influenced by colour and texture, and she sells her patterns through Ravelry, Patternfish and has also had some published in Vogue Knitting.
Terri Bibby, a freestyle weaver and designer from Salt Spring Island, will also attend.
“Terri makes amazing clothing and accessories using the Saori technique developed in Japan, and she is a fabulous teacher, so everyone enjoys her workshops,” Ridgway says.
Ulrieke Benner, a professional textile designer and educator who works with wool and silk to produce vibrantly coloured one-of-a kind wearable art accessories and clothing will teach all three days. Benner has a Masters degree in education and a Bachelor of fine arts in textile design and fibre art.
Applique artist Val Ursulak from Nanaimo will offer a class geared for beginners.
“Val turns fabric into incredible art. You will think you are looking at a photo! Everyone will learn something new and exciting in her class,” Ridgway says.
Some of the other instructor’s at this year’s Fibre Fest include: Jackee Thaysen (French Braid Quilt); Jodi Richards (Needle Felting); Margaret Kelly & Gail Tellet (Fabric Dyeing); and Shelley Mackie (Viking Knitting, a unique style of jewelry making by knitting with wire).
The Vancouver Island Fibre Fest-2015 runs May 1 through 3 at the Campbell River Community Centre and is a fundraiser for the City of Campbell River Specialized Recreation programs.
Admission to the event is by donation.
For more information on Fibre Fest, visit www.shelmack.wix.com/vancouverislandfibre or call Judy Ridgway at 250-286-1161.