The Waxed-Linen Sailor
Many artists use waxed-linen thread to bind and attach - but after joining international 'stuffsmith' Keith Lo Bue for this day of sailor's rope-rigging techniques scaled down small, you'll want to feature this strong and versatile medium front and center! Students will encase, weave and otherwise embellish a host of found materials with these fascinating and beautiful designs. No previous experience needed - just simple tools and enthusiasm.

• A standard ball of white or off-white twine. This will just be to try the techniques on a larger scale for visual reference.

• A small, sharp scissors

• Tweezers

• Waxed linen thread. Any weight (ply) will work, but 3- or 4-ply will suit us for the class. There are many sources online, but not many places will sell small spools of it. A large 100-yard spool of Irish waxed linen thread will cost you around $12-14. If you don't have any already, I might suggest visiting this site and ordering small spools in a selection of colors you like - I'd say at least 2 colors, and more will give you more choice.

An alternative resource, albeit one with little choice in colors, can be found here.

• An assortment of needles will ensure you have what you need.
Search out a few CURVED upholstery or tapestry needles - I use these all the time. Here's a set. These will be very useful in the class. Glover's needles are also good as an alternative.

• A needle threader if your hand-eye needs it.

• A bunch of found objects to adorn! Bring lots of little things - little bottles, vials, doll parts, writing implements, WHATEVER. Everyone will have a unique take on the techniques given, which is what I pride my classes on. The more you bring, the more choice you have!

Any good nautical stories to relate? Sea chanties? Shipwreck tales? Bring 'em along, maties.

Please email me with any questions you might have that this page didn't address.

See you there! Keith