Duration: 1 day 10am -5pm, Saturdays
Fee: £210
Next start date: check table below
Tutor: Anne Tomlin
Suitable for absolute beginners
We are so often exposed to poor quality mass produced synthetic and plastic artificial flowers, it is a beautiful contrast to behold the work of a professional hand crafter of fine silk botanical beauties.
When no woman left home without a hat, the Art of millinery was further enhanced by glorious creations to replicate delicate flowers. The work of Anne Tomlin shows how much she has studied the forms of flowers and managed to grasp the ephemeral quality of nature.
On this one day workshop, you will learn how to make a magnificent magnolia. You will be cutting silk fabric and painting petals with Procion dyes to create naturalistic effects. The layers are then bonded and formed with silk bound stems to make a beautiful spring bloom.
FAQs
How can I hope to learn anything about such a complex craft?
The flower you make will be broken down into easy to follow and understood steps and Anne will demonstrate each stage during the day as well as helping everyone individually. You will learn about stiffening silk, cutting petals and painting with procion dyes to create naturalistic effects. You will go away with plenty of tips, supplier information and Anne will have a selection of silks, dyes, Japanese glue, wires and flower-making tools for you to purchase.
Any dangers?
Some petals are formed by using a hot metal tool to press into the petal. All fabrics and paints used are non toxic. A domestic iron is also used.
What do I need to bring?
The use of all tools and materials is included.
About Anne Tomlin
Anne is a milliner and 3D botanical artist inspired by the Sussex countryside around where she lives. She studied textiles at Farnham, graduating with a first-class degree in 1983, followed by millinery at The London College of Fashion. She was one half of the renowned hat label Bailey Tomlin with an international reputation, selling to many top stores including Liberty, Harrods and Saks 5th Ave.
She now makes bespoke hats and headpieces, and miniature wild meadows that reflect her lifelong love of the natural world. Using fine silks, wire, paper clay and millinery materials to create one 3D botanicals that are made with attention to detail and often with a sense of playfulness. She also makes studies of nature and wildflowers showing her concerns for our loss of wild meadows. These are displayed under glass where she interprets the essence of each flower and its personality combining old flower making techniques with her own, developed over 30 years.
