Embroidered Sonoma County Postcards

Calling all intrepid travelers! Join artist Robert Mahar in learning stitching techniques and creating a charming set of embroidered souvenir postcards from some local Sonoma County destinations.

Calling all intrepid travelers! Join artist Robert Mahar in creating a charming set of embroidered souvenir postcards. He has searched near and far for a collection of perfectly patinated postmarked cards that have now been digitally restored, reprinted and made ready just for you. Instruction will guide you through best practices for stitching on paper, including the transfer of imagery and patterns, and clever finishing techniques. The resulting set can be displayed as reminders of actual or imaginary adventures, or sent to loved ones as deliverable mail art.

This workshop ventures around many traditional techniques and embraces an approach to embroidery that is more freeform in nature, allowing you to stitch paper in a fun and unique way. Choose your own adventure, selecting a palette, design and stitch placements all your own. This is a project well suited for everyone, no previous experience is necessary.

Features

Please note that while you’ll receive a set of postcards that include some of Robert’s favorite Sonoma County destinations, you’ll learn stitching techniques that can be applied to examples in your own collection.
Instruction also includes discussion of the many ways in which these stitched pieces of ephemera can be incorporated into multi-media artist books or wall panels.
All materials are provided and included in the cost of the class. Each material kit includes: a set of custom custom printed paper postcards, a gridded practice notebook, ruler, a limited palette of embroidery floss, adhesive and embroidery needles.
However, if you have favorite embroidery tools or prefer specific colors of embroidery floss (6-strand or perle) you are encouraged to bring these items to the workshop.
Appellation's chef crafted seasonal bites and local Sonoma County wines will be shared.

Featured Local Artist

Robert Mahar

Artist & Educator

Robert Mahar is a California-based artist and educator who teaches thoughtfully researched and developed hands-on projects based in historical craft traditions. He’s also a proud contestant alumnus, and subsequent associate producer, on NBC’s crafting competition show Making It with Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman. With an education in studio arts and art history, he has worked in a variety of creative fields including 13 years as an appraiser of modern and contemporary art.

Testimonials

"The instructor was clear and creative. It was so relaxing!" - Cathy L.

"A great 2 hours with my daughter, we loved to make cookies together." - Jennifer G.

"We learned something new and now appreciate it." - Carrie M.

"Everyone was so friendly and I met some new ladies. Thank you so much for the special time!" – Marilys G.

"I loved the people, experience, atmosphere and learning." - Diane B.

"Very straight forward step-by-step directions, clear and concise. Lots of support and encouragement." - Renee L.