Izabela Sauer’s innovations in surface design emerge from her passion for texture and colour. Her method of first hand-painting silk and then applying the arashi shibori technique produces a finished cloth with an unusual sculptural life.


In this workshop Izabela will teach a range of silk painting techniques from watercolour to gutta resist lines and thickened dyes. Students will work on different kinds of silk such as chiffon and satin as well as silk velvet to make their samples.

With painted fabric in hand, the second part of the workshop will demonstrate the application of arashi shibori pleating techniques. This workshop will provide a good opportunity to work closely with a successful working artisan in an intimate environment.

There will be time for students to produce their own pieces. Izabela will give an overview of the art with both visuals and finished textiles.

This workshop is suitable for both beginners and students with previous experience.

Izabela Sauer

Izabela Sauer’s one-of-a-kind silk wearables can be found at her studio/gallery on Granville Island in Vancouver. They are also represented by fine craft galleries throughout the United States and Canada. She has won numerous awards for her textiles, including the 2002 and 2007 Niche Award for Excellence, an international competition for professional craft artists working in all media.

Currently Izabela divides her time between sailing in the South Pacific and working in Alarte Silks studio in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. www.alartesilks.com