Kathryn Greenwold
Kathryn is an active artist, teacher, lecturer and quilt appraiser. She was born into a family who were all writers and artists. She grew up drawing, painting, and building things. Her grandmothers introduced her to quilting and embroidery. It was these textile arts that caught her imagination. She also holds a BFA in Art History and MLS in Library and Information Science. Kathryn’s work is grounded in these art and textile traditions, while she enjoys new techniques incorporating nontraditional materials. Each work is a beginning; presenting its own problems, challenges, and solutions.Please go to www.kathryngreenwold.com for more information.
Artist’s Statement
My work focuses on finding new ways of manipulating texture and surface design to arouse emotion and thought on the part of the viewer. Each work is a beginning; each presents its own problems, challenges, and solutions.
My artistic vision is a blend of old and new, grounded in traditions of art and American textiles, while looking to the future. I use textiles, embellishments, paper, and found objects to facilitate an exploration of the natural world, exploration of space, and our every day environment. This manipulation of textures, use of normally unrelated objects, and abstraction of natural objects are at the heart of my work. Layers of fabric, transparency, and light are important to my process.
Please view some of my works at www.kathryngreenwold.com or contact me at lcgreeny@aol.com to arrange to see my current works.
The following are brief descriptions of the lectures and workshops available for presentation in shops or to your interest group, historical society, or guild. I have full descriptions and supply lists available upon request. In addition to these formal offerings, I can personalize instruction to meet specific needs or interests, and would entertain a request for a specific workshop or lecture. Please contact me if you are interested in any of these options.
LECTURES:
QUILTS IN THE 21ST CENTURY –lecture is a study of the directions quilting is going in as new methods, machines, fabrics, paints, and designs are put into use. We are building a body of work that will become the “traditional” quilts in 100 years. This lecture will also focus on the effects the internet an This d computers have already had on the quilting world and what we might see in the next 25 years - computerized custom fabric printing - the demise of local quilt shops and why that is a bad thing - the globalization of both design and markets. It is always a discussion starter!
Allow an hour for the lecture with a few minutes for questions. This lecture can be paired with the 3-D Quilts Workshop - see below.
JUDGING QUILTS: THE WHO, WHAT, HOW, AND WHY OF HAVING YOUR QUILTS JUDGED - This lecture will help explain the different methods used for quilt judging, the difference between a juried show and one that is judged, and what you can learn from the experience of having your quilts judged. A mock judging session will be a part of the presentation.
Allow about 45 minutes for the lecture and 15-20 minutes for questions.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? - This lecture explores the various names for quilt blocks and appliqué patterns. Some traditional names will be explained, as well as regional differences. Resources (past and present) for finding names of blocks will be explored.
Allow about an hour for this lecture.
APPRAISALS: WHO, WHAT, HOW AND WHY - This lecture offers a discussion of the appraisal process, who to seek out for appraisals of quilts, why you need an appraisal of your quilts and what should be included in an appraisal. This lecture can be done separately or in conjunction with a day of verbal or written appraisals.
Allow 40 minutes for the lecture and 10-20 minutes for questions.
If you wish written appraisals to be provided there will be a fee for each (paid by the person requesting the appraisal) and I will need a well lit, roomy private space for the appraisals. Verbal appraisals can be done in conjunction with these lectures for a flat hourly fee.
QUILTS IN UPSTATE NEW YORK - A discussion of the quilts made in New York State over the last 300 years. Unique regional patterns, quilting styles and trends are discussed. The lecture is accompanied by a trunk showing of Kathryn’s collection of New York state quilts - both old and new. Participants are always encouraged to bring in their quilts that were or may have been made in New York as well. This always adds a great deal to everyone’s experience. This lecture can also be customized to focus on one region of the state - the Adirondacks, the Catskills, Western New York - to fit your needs.
Lecture format only - allow 1 hour, or a little longer, depending on how many quilts are brought in by participants. The lecture will take about 40 minutes with 20 minutes for questions and the trunk showing.
DON’T THROW IT OUT!! SAVE THAT QUILT!! - This lecture explores how to assess the condition of a quilt and determine whether it can be saved or not. Options for partial repair and whether repairs should be made at all will be discussed. The issue of repair vs. restoration will be discussed and demonstrated and stain removal and washing will be covered. Care of quilts to avoid damage and the need for repairs will be emphasized. Methods for repair will be demonstrated using quilts from Kathryn’s collections. Participants are encouraged to bring in quilts that need repair for discussion. We will try to find a solution for each.
In workshop format allow 2-3 hours for lecture, discussion, demonstrations and time to look at participants’ quilts. In lecture only format the demonstrations of techniques will not be included. Problem quilts will be discussed and solutions suggested for participants’ quilts.
Allow 1-2 hours. A handout is available.
THE SPIRITUALITY OF COLOR - This lecture incorporates basic color theory and design work with an exploration of the psychological and spiritual nature of color and why we use the colors we do. Participants will create a small wall hanging, or a few blocks for a larger quilt, applying some of the ideas learned during the lecture portion of the workshop.
Allow 4-5 hours for this workshop. In lecture format only - allow 1 hour.
WORKSHOPS:
FABRIC PAINTING FOR SPECIAL EFFECTS – We will use paint, fabric crayons, pastels, oil paint sticks, and other media especially designed for use on fabrics to create blended colors, color overlay on printed fabrics and other special effects for use in either traditional or non-traditional quilting.
Allow 3-4 hours for this workshop. Can also be expanded to a full day workshop allowing more time to explore these techniques in depth.
TREASURES IN TIME - This workshop will teach participants how to incorporate antique fabrics, blocks and quilt fragments with new fabrics to create quilts and wall hangings with an antique look. The use of totally new fabrics to create an antique look will also be discussed. Old methods of piecing, marking and quilting will be explored. Dyeing and fading fabrics to match antiques will be covered. Each participant’s project will be individualized.
Allow a full day for this workshop. Each participant should be able to complete or nearly complete a top and have plans for quilting and completion. This workshop is for intermediate quilters and above. It can also be presented in a 2-day format
In lecture only format, this subject can be covered in 1-2 hours. Techniques and styles are discussed. A trunk show of “antique” creations can be provided.
SIGNS OF LIFE: QUILTS AS MEDITATION - Throughout time and in many different cultures, there are various symbols, which have similar meaning to the people of these cultures. These symbols also are basic to non-figural decoration -- they are the circle, square, triangle, spiral and equidistant cross. We see these symbols in nature, in art and in fabric design, as well as quilt patterns. This lecture/workshop explores the similar meanings of these symbols and leads the participants in a personal exploration of their meaning. This workshop was inspired by and employs the book, Signs of Life, by Angeles Arrien.
In workshop format allow 4-5 hours so that each participant may begin working on a mandala or meditation focus created after ranking these symbols in importance to themselves and learning their meaning.
In lecture only format, allow 1-2 hours.
BURGOYNE SURROUNDED - pattern, exploring color and constructionWe will re-discover this 19th Century possibilities to create something unique. A new way of piecing the blocks and finishing options will be explored.
Allow 3-4 hours for this workshop.
NAUTILUS and STAR CROSSED - Two new settings for an old block pattern
These two quilt patterns are based on the traditional Amish Sunshine and Shadows block which is usually made of strips of bright colors with a black half-square. You can stay with this traditional color way, or use tone-on-tone or batik prints, to add texture and visual impact. The spiral and star settings are original.
Allow 3-4 hours for this workshop.
BROIDERIE PERSE FOR TODAY - This workshop includes a discussion of the history of Broiderie Perse appliqué quilts, both in Europe and the United States. Various methods for achieving the special effects desired will be demonstrated. Each participant will use print fabrics of her own choosing to create a unique wall hanging or quilt block. Machine and hand embroidery will be discussed. Lots of examples will be available for participants to see.
Allow 4-5 hours for this workshop.
3-D QUILTS – Each participant will make a small three-dimensional quilted wall hanging. A new technique using fabric stiffener will be taught. Traditional or modern piecing techniques and fabrics can be used. Small UFO’s are welcomed! All ability levels are welcomed.
Allow 3-4 hours for this workshop.
STENCIL MAGIC - This workshop will help quilters of all levels do more with their quilting stencils. A method for recording your stencil designs and creating new ideas on paper will be demonstrated and each participant will have the opportunity to take a stencil design apart and put it back together in a new way. You will learn how to turn a border stencil into the perfect corner treatment and how to size the border and corner to the quilt you are working on. Creating your own quilting patterns for “problem” tops will be discussed, as will cutting and making your own stencil designs. Participants are encouraged to bring tops you are having difficulty with. Quilt marking systems and products will be discussed. Each participant will be able to use their stencils in a more creative way.
Allow 2-3 hours for this workshop.
QUILTING WITHOUT STENCILS - Stencils were not widely used for marking quilts until the 20th century. Before that time quilters relied on their own wits, strings, chalk, soap and household objects and homemade templates to produce their quilting designs. Participants will explore these drafting and marking techniques to create unique quilting patterns that will fit the designs on their tops. A handout will be provided with some suggested designs, free-hand quilting and cup and saucer patterns. Both borders and block designs will be covered.
Allow 2-3 hours for this workshop.
ALL THAT GLITTERS... - This workshop is designed to teach “old” quilters some new tricks. A variety of embellishment techniques will be discussed and experimented with. Piecing, appliqué and fusing will be used as well as thread embellishment to create “confetti” and over sewing to couch braid and ribbons, etc. The final step will be hand embellishment with beads, charms, ribbon flowers, appliqués, semi-precious stones and other 3-Dimensional additions.
Allow 4-5 hours for this workshop.
“NEEDLING AROUND” - MACHINE NEEDLE LACE MAKING - This course will lead the participants through the process of making lace using embroidery floss, thread clippings, bits of fabric, cording and ribbons, sequins and scraps from other projects. They will need a working machine, preferably one with some fancy stitches (at least zigzag) and ability to use metallic threads. Participants will use Solvy stabilizer for ease in sewing and will finish at least one panel of lace in the course. The lace created can be used in quilts, as “thread pictures” or to create unique vests, scarves or collars. Any ability level is appropriate.
Allow 4-5 hours for this workshop.
I CAN’T BEAR TO CUT IT UP - This workshop will make use of your favorite landscape, cityscape, unique design, or pictorial fabric in ways that help you to preserve and enjoy it. Each finished wall hanging will be unique to the maker, but various design techniques will be taught so you can be creative and do justice to the fabric. This is ideal for the wonderful Japanese prints, landscapes, and cityscapes that are currently available. Not for beginners, but the design methods used are relatively simple, so anyone who is motivated to create a unique top can be successful.
Allow 4-5 hours for this workshop. It could be done in lecture format only.
CELTIC DESIGNS FOR APPLIQUE AND QUILTING - You will learn how to copy and use traditional Celtic designs and how to create your own interwoven designs for use in appliqué, quilting, and embroidery. We will discuss the use of ready-made bias tape as well as making your own bias strips for appliqué work. You will also learn how to make your own quilting stencils. Open to all ability levels.
Allow 2-3 hours for this workshop. It is presented in lecture format with some individual design work using graph paper on the part of each participant.
HAWAIIAN QUILTING - This workshop will include a short lecture on the history and origins of Hawaiian quilting and traditional patterns. Then, each participant will create either a traditional block or an original design based on Hawaiian-style cut work. Several methods for doing the appliqué will be discussed. Setting and finishing options will also be covered.
Allow 3-4 hours for this workshop.
Angelina Fun! Design and Embellishment Possibilities -
Angelina is a new and unusual material to work with, but can be used to create some really wonderful special effects on fabric, paper, or as a sheer fabric on its own. In this workshop, you will learn some tricks in the use of Angelina and have the opportunity to create a small art quilt. You will also go home with sample patches representing the techniques we will cover.
There will be a materials fee for this class.
Allow 4 hours for this workshop.
BEADS AND EMBELLISHMENTS - This workshop is designed to teach the basics of adding beads and other embellishments to finished quilt projects and Crazy Quilt blocks. Each participant will learn several different techniques, using a variety of materials. Both contemporary design and traditional embellishment will be addressed. Machine embellishment will be discussed, but the emphasis for the course will be hand sewing techniques. Hand and/or machine embroidery will not be extensively discussed.
Allow 2-4 hours for this workshop.
BEGINNING QUILTING - This course is taught in 6 sessions in a lecture/ demonstration format. Basic color theory and fabric selection will be discussed, sewing techniques and tricks will be demonstrated, and the class will be taught how to finish and bind their quilts.
All 2 - 2 ½ hours per session.
MOTHER-DAUGHTER SEWING - I will come to your home and bring a machine with me to allow both of you to sew at the same time. I can do basic sewing lessons, or help you develop skills to accomplish specific projects.
These sessions are scheduled on an hourly basis, with a two hour minimum.
DESIGN COACHING and INDIVIDUAL LESSONS - I am available to assist in perfecting your skills, learning the basics of sewing or quilting, and in developing your skills as a quilter. Call me to improve your skills in designing and planning a quilt without a commercial pattern and to learn how to draft a pattern. I am able to teach you how to calculate yardages for your pattern, how to best photograph your work, and other skills you will need to expand your quilting horizons. I can help you better understand color theory and how to apply it to fabrics, and guide you in an exploration of embellishment with beading and embroidery and textile painting. Individual sessions are scheduled on an hourly basis, with a two hour minimum.
I am also available for weekend and week-long intensive quilting seminars and retreats, with instruction, design coaching, and problem solving sessions, open to all skill levels. These offerings
can be customized to suit the needs of your group. Give me a call for details and to learn about retreats that are scheduled.
OTHER OFFERINGS:
I would be happy to do a week-long workshop at a school, integrating quilting (artistic design and sewing), the geometry of block patterns, history and traditions of quilting, and literature into the curriculum. A school quilt or quilts to be donated to a local social agency, 9/11 Family Quilts, or an ABC Quilts Project could be the end result. Call me to arrange for a Quilting Week as an Artist-In-Residence.
AFTER SCHOOL AND BEYOND
I offer five classes teaching grade school age children some of the basic needle arts. They have been offered in several after school programs in either 4 or 6 session formats. The children must cover the cost of materials, but I provide equipment for them to use. I charge $10 per student, per one hour session. Sessions that are 1½ hours in length cost $15. Cost of materials varies.
BEGINNING NEEDLEPOINT - Open to children from Kindergarten up. Using plastic canvas and a large eyed needle, the students learn the basic tent stitch and create a bookmark and picture frame. No materials cost.
Four sessions of an hour each. The children are given plastic canvas, yarn, printed design charts and a tapestry needle to take home.
ADVANCED NEEDLEPOINT - Grades 2 up, or if the child has completed Beginning Needlepoint. Several fancy stitches and design techniques are taught and a set of coasters is completed. No materials cost.
Four or six sessions of an hour each. Canvas, yarn, charts and a needle are provided and the needle can be kept at the end of the course.
BASIC SEWING - Grades 3 and up. The students are introduced to hand and machine sewing techniques while they create a table runner for use at home. They also learn at least one decorative embroidery technique.
Six sessions of an hour each. Students must provide their own fabrics. Thread, machines, and needles will be provided.
ADVANCED SEWING - Grades 4and up, if the student has sewn before. Use of a pattern and fitting are covered while the students each make a lined vest for themselves. They are given some design options that allow for creativity, while constructing this simple vest on the machine.
Six sessions of 1½ hours each. Students must provide their own fabrics. Thread, machines, and other basic supplies will be provided.
QUILTING - Open to grades 4 and up, if the child has sewn before. A doll quilt is completed in this course. Basic appliqué techniques or other fabric embellishments are explored. This course allows a great deal of creativity, while the students do hand and machine sewing to complete their tied quilts.
Six sessions of 1½ hours each. Students much provide their own fabrics. Thread, machines, needles, yarn for tying, and appliqué motifs will be provided.
ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM - I have developed a week-long curriculum for grades 3-5 that incorporates the geometry of block patterns, the history of quilts and quilt making, and quilts in literature. In addition, the students will create one or more quilts that may be donated to the local charity of their choice (a shelter, cancer ward at a nearby hospital, veterans and servicemen and women, etc.) Grant money may be available to fund this program.
