A hands-on workshop that will lead participants into the colourful world of traditional Newfoundland Mat hooking. Following a brief history of the craft, participants will create their own 'mat' in the Newfoundland tradition. Students will be encouraged to design their own creation, but designs will also be provided.

Students who wish to plan their design before coming to class should work on an 8 1/2" x 11" sheet of paper. Designs should be simple with large shapes. Materials will be provided but students are also encourgaged to bring fabric in colours that they find appealing. T-shirt fabric is best for beginners. Value Village and the Salvation Army Thrift Store has t-shirts in every colour of the rainbow.

If you have any of the following items, please bring them along: black waterproof marker, staple gun and staples, scissors, rotary cutter, cutting mat and plastic ruler.

The St. John's Folk Arts Council is interested in presenting activities that involve participation between the generations. There is no age limit for this workshop, but all participants should have some basic knowledge of handicrafts.

DATE:      SATURDAY, APRIL 13TH

PLACE:   THE MASONIC TEMPLE, CATHEDRAL STREET

TIME:       10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

COST:      Adults $25; Seniors, Students and Youth $20


PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED IN ADVANCE OF THE WORKSHOP.

Susan Furneaux began her career as a graphic artist. After her the birth of her daughter, Jane, Susan decided to turn her passion for textiles into a career. In 1996, Susan graduated from the Textile Studies Program at the College of the North Atlantic (then Cabot College) with the Award for Excellence.

Susan has worked at the Museum of Newfoundland and Labrador's Textile Lab, helping to preserve textiles from the Hawthorne Cottage, Brigus. She has worked at the Anna Templeton Centre for Craft Art and Design as the program co-ordinator and more recently the print and dye technician. Presently, Susan is primarily focusing on her own work in natural dye techniques and embroidery. She also continues to instruct print and dye techniques, embroidery and various children's classes at the Anna Templeton Centre for Craft Art and Design. Susan is a member of the Devon House Craft Gallery Committee and is the Secretary and Gallery Representative on the Board of the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Susan's work has been internationally exhibited, and many of her pieces are held in private and corporate collections.