We are thrilled to be hosting Jo Ann Manzone for this year’s Felt Fest. On Friday & Saturday, October 7th & 8th, Jo Ann will be teaching a workshop unlike anything we’ve had in the shop before: Fabric Painting & Nuno Felted Embellishment. We want our readers, customers and students to get to Jo Ann a bit better, so we asked her a few questions!
What type of art did you first learn and who taught you about fiber art?
My mother and grandmother taught me about fiber arts. They sewed a little bit but were primarily knitters. Any time they got together, the knitting needles would come out and life’s conversations would begin. I loved hearing the click clack of the needles intermingled with chatter about family, new recipes and projects. I couldn’t wait to learn this special craft and at age 10 when my mother and grandmother took me to our local yarn shop to pick out my first knitting project my eyes were like saucers taking in the bright and warm colors and textures of the wool. My first project was a scarf with lots of mistakes. I wore it proudly! Little did I know that I would be turning this skill into a lifetime passion of working with felt and other fibers. When I am working with textiles I feel part of a circle, belonging and loved.
What is your favorite part about teaching others to felt?
The most exciting part about teaching felt making is cultivating a connection with others who share a similar passion. Sharing technical knowledge, design ideas, learning from one another and watching the magic of creating unfold for students is extremely rewarding. I always walk away from a teaching experience feeling like I taught and was taught.
How do you find inspiration?
My design aesthetic is influenced by fashion of the 50’s and 60’s. My inspiration comes from my day to day walk in the woods, foraging, a window display, a pattern of stones or decorative building, costumes from our local Shakespeare festival, magazines and being surrounded by other artists and art work.
What are your favorite types of fibers to work with?
When I am making nuno felt I like working with superfine merino wool, wool silk blends, short fiber merino wool, silk gauze, chiffon, textured silks, organza and habotai. I enjoy combining my felt with other textiles to create new fabric. My creative focus is on combining natural elements with my felt and fabric to create unique textiles.
Here are a few samples of the types of things students can make in Jo Ann’s Felt Fest workshop.
A big thank you to Jo Ann for chatting with us! We can’t wait to get to know her and to watch her amazing workshop come to life. If you’re interested in registering, or have questions, give us a call at 916-652-2134 or email emma@thetinthimble.com
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