More dyed threads

Do you ever have one of those weeks where you feel as though all your effort is going into stockpiling materials rather than using them? I've spent this week stocking up on my book-cloth and dying my own threads. Now I've made them I just want to sit and play with them ... order them into appealing piles. I even made some of my own thread winders because I wasn't happy with the shop bought ones. Time to stop playing and get that book out of the press!

Haphazard results with a couple of pans and some commercial dyes.

I'm in print ...

Just been sent this .... a clipping from the D&S Times ... It's all very exciting!

Saltaire Arts Trail 2013

I am completely thrilled that I have been selected to take part in this years Saltaire Arts Trail.
Better crack on and make some books!!

Little Linen Books

I thought I'd let you know what happened to all those beautiful hand drawn cross stitch charts. Well I suppressed the urge to steal them (and pop them into frames) .... drew  a deep breath .... then chopped them up to build into these Little Linen Books. They are now with the lovely Jane Greenoff, and can be purchased through her website or via one of the many shows that Jane attends throughout the year. But be warned ... they sell pretty quickly!

Little linen books available here

April Bookbinding Workshop

Workshop Full
Please contact me if you would like first dibs at my next workshop ... date tbc.

I have been wanting to run a workshop in my local town for quite a while and recently snatched at the opportunity to book the art room above the newly-located local Art Shop (a family run business).

During this workshop, I will guide you through the process of making your very own “Open Spine” hand-bound notebook, which you can then take home and enjoy. All abilities are welcome as I will endeavour to adapt the workshop to your requirements.

All materials and specialist equipment will be provided. If you have any special fabric or paper you would like to include then please bring them along too. We will also have access to the materials in the art shop at a discounted price (% tbc). It will be like having our very own arty larder!

Coffee and tea will be provided, but please bring your own packed lunch. If we're feeling a bit flush, we could always pop up the road to the world-renowned Betty's Tea Room.

The Art Shop,  Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 9DU (on the corner of Hawksworth Street, facing onto Leeds Road - a brisk two-minute walk from the train and bus stations).

Please contact me via katehbowles@gmail.com  for further information or to book a place. I will be asking for a £10 deposit at the time of booking to confirm your place on the workshop.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Kate x

Please note that the building is pretty old and the staircase to the art room is a little steep, and may therefore be inaccessible to people with a mobility issue.

Little linen books ...

I've just received a bundle of Jane Greenoff's original, hand drawn, cross stitch designs.  They are completely gorgeous, especially the crossings out and tippex splodges. So before I gird my loins and chop them to pieces, ready for a new batch of "Little Linen Books" .....  here are a few pictures.

"Mollie Makes" Moodboard ...

My little Floral Beermat Book is featured on the Mollie Makes Monday Mood Board ...