Paper & Pleats

Paper & Pleats is a workshop exploring textile identity and kiltmaking through paper collage and hand sewn pleating techniques. The workshop is designed and run by designer/researcher Owen Edward Snaith and Edinburgh Kiltmakers Academy in collaboration with Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers.

The day will start with an introduction to the Interweaving Threads project; a deep exploration of the links between traditional textiles and crafts of both Scotland and Norway and the work of both OwenEdward Snaith and the Edinburgh Kiltmakers Academy.

The morning will continue with a series of collage experiments that explore pattern, print, weaving and the SET with designer OwenEdward Snaith. Paper is a great material to create bold and interesting textile designs that can then be translated into a variety of different textile disciplines such as weaving, print, embroidery and applique. Paper is a versatile material that can be painted, marked, printed and adorned with an array of materials making the possibilities endless. Many designers work in this way to create textiles with distinct handwriting and a unique point of view.

The afternoon will start with a discussion from Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers about all things tartan & kilts, identifying truths from within tartans' chequered past, sharing their passion for the continuing evolution oftartan & authentic craft skills to safeguard our shared future heritage. Followed by Edinburgh kiltmakers academy Head Tutor and Kiltmaker Rachel sharing valuable insight into the craft of handsewn kiltmaking through a series of hands-on pleating and sewing techniques. This offers everyone the chance to explore tartan grids, understand setts, stripes and the valuable skills that go into kiltmaking.
Inspiration imagery will be on display and materials are provided however if you have any materials that you feel are representative of your identity, particularly inspiring or that you are keen to work with please feel free to bring them. This could be copies of family imagery, postcards, newspapers, pages of books.. you name it.