Our industry is remarkable. In a constant state of growth and adaptation, this past year has been even more impressive than most. Forced to take a closer look at valuable means of connection and education, so many turned to the digital world. Zoom calls, virtual classes, video texts… We may not always get to share a word in person, but sharing something face to face has become so much easier!
We’ve been following along with a program launched by C&T Publishing last year and we just love what they’ve built. It was particularly exciting to see that Aurifil Designers Jennifer Sampou and Shibaguyz (Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby) are listed among the top-notch team of educators. So today, we’re thrilled to share the story and give you all an opportunity to be a part of something fresh and new.
The Story Behind Creative Spark
Years ago, the C&T Publishing team started kicking around the idea of creating workshops with their authors. In 2020, the vision became a reality with a herculean undertaking led by a staff of 25 people. Creative Spark Online Learning is especially important now that our community is craving connection, inspiration, and creativity.
The goal is to provide C&T’s authors, who, before 2020, were traveling and teaching their love of crafts at in-person events, a chance to share their creative skills, vision, and years of expertise to everyone, online. Each Creative Spark instructor will challenge students to be more creative, expand their skill sets and learn something new.
Fifteen members of the C&T staff designed the experience to meet the students’ needs. The featured authors have a combined experience of 70 years teaching. They know what works and how to be fun, engaging instructors. Creative Spark offers a unique online learning experience that allows students to work at their own pace and get one-on-one feedback from instructors. Whether a beginner looking to dive into a new craft or an advanced creator seeking a challenge, there is a course for everyone.
From their studio to yours, Creative Spark instructors are teaching you how to create. They are there to champion, support, inspire, and motivate students from their own personal studios. Not only do students get a look inside the instructors’ creative spaces, they also get to be a part of engaging courses that would typically be a one or multi-day workshop from the comfort of their own homes. It is truly a bespoke experience with unique student groups, live virtual meet-ups, feedback sessions, Q+A with instructors…and more.
Creative Spark is not a one-size-fits-all online learning experience. The whole team welcomes you to be who you are, share, create, and belong. Get outside of your comfort zone and ignite your creativity. Who knows… you might like it.
FEATURED EDUCATORS:
Jason & Shannon Mullett-Bowlsby are the dynamic DIY duo known as the Shibaguyz. Their award-winning crochet, knit, and sewing designs have been featured in and on the covers of domestic and international publications. Their enthusiasm, quirky sense of humor, and relatable teaching style have made them sought after teachers in local and national venues. The Shibaguyz live in Seattle with their three Shiba Inu who support their ventures, so long as there’s time for face rubbins. 😉
Available Courses:
Sashiko 101: Iconic First Stitches
Join the Shibaguyz and learn iconic Sashiko stitches so you can create beauty and harmony in your handwork. No experience necessary! All you need is a few simple tools and your own two hands.
183 Browser Windows RECORDED – Down the Boro & Sashiko Rabbit Hole
Adventure along with the Shibaguyz as they take you down a rabbit hole what began with a website about Japanese mended fabric and ended up in the curation room in the basement of a museum surrounded by two-hundred year old garments.
Check out their debut C&T release:
Boro & Sashiko, Harmonious Imperfection: The Art of Japanese Mending & Stitching
by Shannon & Jason Mullett-Bowlsby, the Shibaguyz
Jennifer Sampou began her design studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City and majored in textiles at the University of Vermont. Jennifer got her feet set as a designer at Laura Ashley in Wales, UK then in 1989, moved to Californiz to become creative director for P&B Textiles. A wonderful relationship bloomed with the fine folks of P&B as quilting fabrics and new printing processes flourished in the 90s. In 1996, Jennifer opened her own Studio Sampou and has been creating best selling fabrics ever since for the wonderful family company, Robert Kaufman. Jennifer actively lectures and teaches around the world!
Available Courses:
Boost Your Color Confidence: Ombré Table Runner Project
The best color hack! Foolproof color work made easy with ombré fabrics. You’ll get comprehensive color instruction and tips on how-to create this artful reversible table runner. Plus, perfect your matchstitck quilting.
Ombré Tote
Create this gorgeous and stylist ombré tote using Jennifer’s foolproof color ombré fabrics. You’ll get comprehensive color instruction. Learn hot to create this versatile and stunning tote. Plus, perfect your matchstick quilting.
Ombré Quilts, 6 Colorful Projects
By Jennifer Sampou
So, how will you find your Creative Spark? Where will you start? We can’t wait to follow along with you all on your journey. To help get you started, we’ve partnered with C&T to offer a fabulous giveaway featuring Jennifer’s SKY thread collection, FAB Sashiko Essentials by the Shibaguyz, AND a $50 credit to Creative Spark Online Learning! Click on the button below to enter to win! Good luck and happy stitching:).
Giveaway is open to our friends all over the world — entries due by June 16. Winner will be randomly selected and notified by C&T.
Great information and a chance to win!
would love to win a creative bundle for quilting.