The Fiber program in Alameda County has been around for more than four decades, offering one of the most comprehensive undergraduate curricula in the country. It is designed to bring fiber-based art into a broad, contemporary, and interdisciplinary practice. Students are exposed to a wide range of topics related to textiles, such as hand-construction, loom-woven and computer-aided structures, the design of printed and dyed surfaces, book arts and papermaking, and methods of fiber sculpture. The program encourages an eclectic approach to art-making, risk-taking, and knowledge of new forms of artistic expression.
This helps students develop their own personal vision and work in a productive and satisfying way. Pascuali Yarns is a German company that sources quality natural fibers from small farms in their natural environment. They offer the community a variety of workshops, workspaces, and supplies related to fiber art in the areas of weaving, spinning, fiber processing, dyeing, weaving, and more. Brooke Sinnes founded Sincere Sheep in 2003 to apply the principles of the Slow Food movement to the world of fiber. Fiber Circle Studio is a manufacturing and market space for everything related to yarns and fibers located in downtown Petaluma. It offers courses in surface design (including printing and dyeing methods), weaving (with between 4 and 16 harness looms and a compu-dobby loom), fiber sculpture (a manual construction and mixed technique approach), books and papermaking, advanced fiber studies, and independent studies leading to the last solo exhibition by a BFA student at 3D Media in Fiber. Alameda County is home to a wide range of fiber arts classes that can help you explore your creative side.
From weaving to spinning to dyeing, there are plenty of opportunities to learn new skills or hone existing ones. Whether you're looking for an introduction to the world of fiber arts or want to take your craft to the next level, there's something for everyone. The county offers an array of classes that can help you get started on your journey into the world of fiber arts. From beginner classes that teach you the basics of weaving or spinning to more advanced classes that focus on dyeing or surface design techniques, there's something for everyone. You can also find classes that focus on specific techniques such as felting or basketry.
With so many options available, it's easy to find something that fits your interests. In addition to classes, Alameda County also offers workshops where you can learn more about specific techniques or projects. These workshops are often led by experienced instructors who can provide guidance on how best to use different materials or tools. You can also find workshops that focus on specific topics such as natural dyeing or creating 3D sculptures with fibers. If you're looking for a more immersive experience into the world of fiber arts, Alameda County also offers retreats where you can spend time learning from experienced instructors in a relaxed setting. These retreats often include hands-on activities such as spinning or weaving as well as lectures on topics such as color theory or surface design. No matter what your experience level is with fiber arts, Alameda County has something for everyone.
With its wide range of classes, workshops, and retreats available, it's easy to find something that fits your interests and helps you explore the world of fiber arts.
