The Innovation Hubs

Today is my last day as the Innovator in Residence in Textiles, and I’m sorry to see it end! The last 10 weeks have been an amazing experience creating and learning with all of you. To celebrate, I’d like to look back at some of the fun things we made as well as at the Fabrication Studio where it all took place.

What We Learned

Over the course of 30 classes, we learned everything from hand sewing techniques for beadwork and embroidery to making armour out of chain mail and EVA foam.

In our Introduction to Beadwork class, we learned the basic stitches and bead combinations for making designs based on Egyptian belly dance costumes.

Our classroom was set up with side by side screens so that participants could watch techniques in real time while also having helpful diagrams and example photos to refer to. It worked out brilliantly!

We also learned hand embroidery techniques this way. The woven wheel stitch was a favourite among participants, but Herringbone is my stitch of choice!

In our chain mail class, we practiced knitting with pliers and aluminum rings. Everyone came away knowing how to knit traditional European 4-in-1 for armour and spiral chains for bracelets or jewelry.

We also learned how to get started on your very first cosplay project, and what tools, techniques and materials you need to make armour and props out of EVA foam. Although foam can'take a while to master, making amazing props and armour is cheaper and easier than you think!

Our classes on horn making and wearable LEDs were great fun for kids and adults alike. The two classes worked together so that participants could make a floral headband with lights, a set of horns or both together.

I loved seeing all the creativity in the different shapes of horns and antlers that people came up with. We even had some unicorns!

For participants wanting to learn to sew, we also had classes on sewing different kinds of bags. This little Caroline Clutch was a great beginner project for everyone.

For Halloween, we also made these adorable shark-shaped loot bags. All this one needs is a button for an eye!

What’s Next?

In 2019, I’ll be back to teaching props and costuming with the Toronto Steampunk Society at various fan conventions in Toronto. I am already confirmed for Toronto Comicon and Fan Expo Canada, with more conventions to be announced soon! You can find the most current information on upcoming class dates and times on my Instagram and Facebook pages.

You will also be able to find me at the Fabrication Studio working on my cosplays and dance costumes for 2019! If you haven’t had a chance to check it out yet, the North York Central Library has a fully equipped sewing space that is a crafter’s dream.

In addition to the three sewing machines, ironing board, and work tables, there is also an embroidery machine that lets you embroider your own designs.

The serger is an extremely useful tool for finishing your seams so they won’t fray. It alone is worth the visit!

There is also a vinyl cutter for printing stickers, stencils, and fabric transfers. You can work on your design next door at the Digital Innovation Hub.

And don’t forget the Sewing Judy for making or testing out your pattern!

If you’ve never sewn before, you might like to take a class in Sewing Basics or on one of the beginner projects offered. Before using the serger and embroidery machines, you also need to take a class for each to make sure you know all the correct set up instructions and safety precautions. I highly recommend checking out the full list of classes available at the Fabrication Studio, since more are offered all the time!

Signing off…for now

I hope this look at our work at the Fabrication Studio has inspired you to go out and start your own projects. For now, I will say both farewell and see you soon! It has been a great honour being your first ever Innovator in Residence in Textiles, and a pleasure working with all of the people who came to learn and make. My deepest thanks go to the staff at North York Central Library, the Digital Innovation Hubs, and the Fabrication Studio for hosting me and making this one of the best experiences of my life. 

And to you all: go forth and create!

Best wishes always,
Tess Jewell
Innovator in Residence in Textiles, Fall 2018