Are you looking for a unique way to explore the world of textile and fiber arts? If so, you may want to consider attending a retreat in Alameda County. From free festivals to paid retreats, there's something for everyone. The second annual Oakland Fiber and Textile Festival is a great place to start. Held at Splash Pad Park in Oakland, this event brings together a wide spectrum of textile and fiber arts to offer a hands-on, multimedia learning experience.
There will be six craft tables “to make and take away” and a fabric exchange. The Fiber Fest is the brainchild of artists Lou Grantham, from Oakland, and Bente Peterson, from Alameda. Grantham has been a weaver since elementary school and the owner of San Francisco Fibre since the 1970s. He now teaches weaving, upholstery, spinning, and dyeing classes in the Bay Area. Peterson studied textile art in her native Denmark and now owns Piedmont Yarn and Apparel in Oakland.
Both teach classes and workshops at the store, which sells finished products, as well as patterns, yarns, and other supplies. In keeping with the founders' community spirit and educational goals, Fiber Fest is a non-profit event run by volunteers. It's a great way to get involved in the local fiber arts community and learn more about the craft. Plus, it's free!If you're looking for something more immersive, there are several fiber arts retreats held throughout Alameda County. One such retreat is hosted by Marlie de Swart, a former spinner, weaver and weaver who lives in Bolinas.
He has a fiber store in Point Reyes where many West Marin artists exhibit and sell their textile items. He is a member of Fibershed and teaches spinning and drawing classes. Marlie is committed to working with local farmers and uses fleeces from the western Marin area. He also hosts regular knitting sessions at Martha's studio under the redwoods of Watsonville, California. In October he will be speaking about his work in the natural dyes sector with brands and the marketing of natural dyes. Whether you're just starting out or an experienced crafter looking for an immersive experience, Alameda County has plenty to offer when it comes to exploring textile and fiber arts.
From free festivals to paid retreats, there's something for everyone.
