Announcing Two Fall Art Workshops

Happy Autumn! I'm thrilled the leaves are starting to change in Northern NJ, although it's hot during the day, the mornings and evenings are cooling, bringing the possibility of change, and making my runs with Ringo more enjoyable. TraillWorks is evolving with the seasons and is pleased to announce two fall workshops with two very talented artists. 

Fabric Tassel Postcard, 6" x 4", by Martha C. Hall

First, No Sew Fiber Art, set for Sunday, October 24th from 10 -3pm will be taught by Martha C. Hall, an award-winning textile artist who is venturing into the teaching realm. She is a creative and consummate professional in everything she does and I anticipate this workshop being very well-received. I've known Martha for about three years; she impresses me in the way she presents her work and herself. She's a patient person, who is also very thoughtful about everything, the makings of an excellent teacher. I can't wait myself as I think Martha will open up new possibilities for my own work.

Workshop participants will make one to two pieces of small fiber art, one of which will be a postcard suitable for mailing. We will experiment with surface design techniques including fused fabric and papers, stamping, writing with fabric ink pens, freezer paper resists and stencils. Design concepts and tips for working on a small "canvas" will also be addressed.

No Sew Fiber Art with Martha C. Hall

Japanese Stab Binding Book, Mixed Media, by Renie Garlick

The second workshop, Japanese Stab Binding, set for Sunday, November 14th from 10 - 3pm will be taught by artist, Renie Garlick. Japanese stab binding is a decorative method of joining the pages of a book to it's cover. It's one of the simpler, yet very beautiful methods of book binding. Like Martha, Renie has similar qualities of a good artist / teacher. She knows her craft, is always well-prepared, and is able to offer alternative approaches or directions for her students. She's also very interested in building a sense of community through collaboration.

Homage to Julia Limited Edition Book, constructed by Renie Garlick / designed by Jennie Traill Schaeffer, $40 each

Renie and I have collaborated recently on a book together. She constructed the above book that I helped design using limited edition giclées of one of my paintings, Homage to Julia, as the cover image (still copies available.) One of the books made during the workshop will be a Japanese tortoise shell binding composed from pages designed by workshop participants. The other book created with blank pages with use a 3-hole punch style binding (shown above). The tortoise binding is ideal for work with single sheets of paper; makes lovely photo albums, journals and storybooks. Making your own book makes a touching gift. I made a scrapbook for my sister upon her high school graduation, and made a guest book for my best friend's wedding.

Japanese Stab Binding with Renie Garlick

Both of these workshops are suitable for beginners through more advanced students, mature teens through adults. There are only twelve spots available in each workshop and pricing is discounted for early registrants. All participants will be treated to a complimentary three-course lunch from Krave Cafe and Caterers in Newton. You can register above through Eventbrite or by contacting me at TraillWorks via email: jennie@traillworks.com or phone, 973-383-1307. I hope you'll join us for at least one creative day! jennie@traillworks.com

TraillWorks' New Look

With TraillWorks' recent relocation, I decided it was time to freshen up it's branding. I was tired of my old logo and felt that it really didn't communicate who I was anymore. After a month or so of talking to several designers, I finally decided to work with my friend, Renie Garlick of Zhine-Studio, a very talented artist of many hats. She was fantastic to work with, not only because she knows me and my business very well, but she asked so many questions and made me think of things I hadn't thought of. After six revisions, here's the end result . . .



I can't wait to start using the new logo, but its rollout may take a little while as I'm focused on getting my new studio set up. Stay tuned for updates to TraillWorks at 214 Spring Street.

Meet the Mudpeople

Tomorrow is a BIG Day — it’s Book Launch Day for my friend Renie Garlick’s book: To Stand Under A Yellow Tree, Imagining.This story is an invitation to you from the mudpeople, personal yet not personalized; they know you, but not your name, not yet. (Renie says when you join them the mudpeople give you a new name...!)

They speak to you through your creative soul and call you to “Come out and play!” There will be magics and games, prizes and surprises and fireworks!
Go to: underayellowtree.com

It’s a Story Telling Festival! And it begins here, now: To Stand Under A Yellow Tree, Imagining. Imagine balloons and flags and ribbons snaking in the winds above a sunny field! And you! Yes, you, too!
At: underayellowtree.com

Pick up the book today and be part of these festivities. Put on your Artist Party Hat! Bring your friends and family and meet us by the river on the muddy banks! We have saved a place for you there!
Join us at: underayellowtree.com

PS Hey! Feel free to forward this invitation along to anyone else you think ought to know about it. THANKS!

Skylands Tour of Art

For more information, visit TraillWorks