New Classes Made Slowly and by Hand

As the year begins, I find myself returning to the studio — to paper, cloth, thread, and the quiet rhythm of making. After months of planning, gathering, and imagining, I’m happy to share three new classes that invite you into that slower, more intentional space.

These classes are about process over perfection, about noticing texture, weight, and story, and about making something meaningful with your hands. Whether you join me online or step into my home studio, each class is designed to be welcoming, thoughtful, and deeply hands-on.

Rocks and Layers — In the Studio – January 17

This 3-hour in-studio workshop is an invitation to slow down and explore the quiet beauty of stone and cloth.

We’ll begin by creating a softly layered linen background, building subtle texture and depth. From there, you’ll appliqué and embellish a rock through hand stitching, allowing texture, rhythm, and intuitive mark-making to suggest the weight and presence of stone.

The stitches emerge through play, curiosity, and paying attention to what wants to happen next. The process is meditative and tactile, perfect for anyone who loves texture, slow stitching, or simply getting lost in the quiet rhythm of needle and thread.

Your finished piece will be mounted on black linen and board for a striking, gallery-ready presentation.

All materials are provided. You only need to bring yourself — and a pair of indoor shoes. We’ll work at a relaxed pace in my home studio, with time to explore, stitch, and settle into the process.

Rocks and Layers – Online – January 24

Rocks and Layers is also available as an online class for those who prefer to work from their own space.

The online version follows the same intuitive, process-led approach — beginning with layered cloth and moving into expressive hand stitching guided by curiosity rather than a fixed plan. You’re invited to slow down, experiment, and let the work unfold in its own time.

An optional materials kit is available if you’d like everything prepared for you, or you’re welcome to work with materials you already have on hand.

A Collected Life: A Handmade Journal – In the Studio – February 7

This 3–4 hour hands-on class is all about creating a journal that is meant to live with you.

Using a thoughtfully curated selection of papers, you’ll build a one-of-a-kind handmade journal filled with layers, folds, split pages and holes — spaces designed to hold sketches, notes, ephemera, ticket stubs, scraps of fabric, and all the little things you don’t want to lose. This is not a precious object for a shelf, but a journal meant to be used, filled, and loved.

The class is entirely paper-based, and everything you need is provided. We’ll work in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere in my home studio, with tea, coffee, and snacks on hand. There is plenty of time to explore, experiment, and make the journal your own.

You’ll leave with a completed journal, ideas for continuing to use it long after the class, and a renewed appreciation for collecting, noticing, and recording the world around you. No prior experience is necessary — just curiosity and a love of process.

The images I’m sharing below are from my Japan trip journal.

All in-studio classes are held in my home studio in NW Calgary and include all materials — simply arrive and settle in. Spaces are limited to keep the experience intimate and unhurried.

If you’ve been craving time to slow down, work with your hands, and make something meaningful, I’d love to have you join me. Registration is now open, and full details for each class can be found in my website.

If one of these classes catches your attention, I’d be happy to have you join me.

Thanks for reading, Until I write again …

Ana

PS: There is still time to sign up for Virtual Schoolhouse #13 – I’m teaching two workshops: Embellished Rocks and Monoprinting – always popular!

Virtual Schoolhouse #13 – Registration is Open