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the MAIWA JOURNAL

Registration Opens June 22 at 10am

2015 Maiwa Textile Symposium
Workshop Knitting 3-D Shapes
Alison Ellen

$225 includes 15 lab fee
September 12, 13,   - Class Limit 14
Maiwa Loft: Above the Net Loft, Granville Is. Vancouver BC



Almost any shapes can be built on knitting needles by picking up stitches and knitting in different directions with no seams.

Beginning with instruction in different ways of building simple shapes, students will be encouraged to experiment and gain confidence in this free approach to knitting. Circles, squares, and 3-D shapes can be made simply on two needles, and some will involve knitting in the round. 

Ideas will evolve which can be used for creating practical items such as hats, bags, cushions etc., or for free-form sculpture.

Alison Elen joins us from the UK.


Instructor Bio

Alison Ellen designs and makes hand-knitted clothing. Training in woven textiles sparked an interest in constructing textiles and a life-long love of knitting. Since the 1980s, she has lectured and run short courses, leading to the publication of three books on exploring knitting technique and design, with a fourth to be published in 2015. 

In 2014 Alison Ellen participated in a group exhibition of Art Inspired by Gardens at Bury Court near Farnham. She is presently working toward a 2016 exhibition with textile artists Deirdre Wood and Ann Richards, both weavers with a similar philosophy in creating controlled shaping.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015 No comments
Registration Opens June 22 at 10am

2015 Maiwa Textile Symposium
Workshop Colour Study for Knitters
Alison Ellen

$125 includes 10 lab fee
September 11,  - Class Limit 14
Maiwa Loft: Above the Net Loft, Granville Is. Vancouver BC



We love colour, but where to begin in designing? First, we will work from source material — objects or images that students find visually exciting. After looking at the proportions of different colours and making a wool winding, we will try different methods of knitting with colours to translate into a design that can be developed further.

Starting from very simple stitches using one colour at a time to produce mixed colours, we will look at other methods such as “fairisle” and “intarsia.” The aim is to become more aware of colour and of the possibilities of using, mixing, and building colour more creatively in knitting, whether using basic stitches or more advanced techniques.
  
Students will have several swatches by the end of the workshop as well as ideas for designs to be continued on their own time.

The course is suitable for people with basic as well as more advanced knitting skills. Forget knitting patterns; all that’s needed is to be prepared to experiment . . .  with help!

Alison Ellen joins us from the UK.


Instructor Bio

Alison Ellen designs and makes hand-knitted clothing. Training in woven textiles sparked an interest in constructing textiles and a life-long love of knitting. Since the 1980s, she has lectured and run short courses, leading to the publication of three books on exploring knitting technique and design, with a fourth to be published in 2015. 

In 2014 Alison Ellen participated in a group exhibition of Art Inspired by Gardens at Bury Court near Farnham. She is presently working toward a 2016 exhibition with textile artists Deirdre Wood and Ann Richards, both weavers with a similar philosophy in creating controlled shaping.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015 No comments
Registration Opens June 22 at 10 am

2015 Maiwa Textile Symposium
Workshop: Diagonal Knitting
Alison Ellen

$225 includes 15 lab fee
September 9, 10,  - Class Limit 14
Maiwa Loft: Above the Net Loft, Granville Is. Vancouver BC



Several hand-knitting stitches produce fabric diagonally or “on the bias,” which has great potential in designing. As well as zigzags and undulating stitches, the course will cover modular or “domino” knitting and “entrelac,” both of which build the knitted fabrics in units without seams. These techniques can be explored at a basic level or taken further to influence the drape of the fabric. Working with these stitch units is a simple way to create effective designs..

After trying different stitches students may work towards their own design project to be completed after the course.

The course is suitable for people with basic as well as more advanced knitting skills. Forget knitting patterns; all that’s needed is to be prepared to experiment . . .  with help!

Alison Ellen joins us from the UK.


Instructor Bio

Alison Ellen designs and makes hand-knitted clothing. Training in woven textiles sparked an interest in constructing textiles and a life-long love of knitting. Since the 1980s, she has lectured and run short courses, leading to the publication of three books on exploring knitting technique and design, with a fourth to be published in 2015. 

In 2014 Alison Ellen participated in a group exhibition of Art Inspired by Gardens at Bury Court near Farnham. She is presently working toward a 2016 exhibition with textile artists Deirdre Wood and Ann Richards, both weavers with a similar philosophy in creating controlled shaping.
Wednesday, April 22, 2015 No comments
Registration opens June 22nd at 10am.

2015 Maiwa Textile Symposium
Workshop: Journey Into Indigo
Danielle Bush & Sophena Kwon

$350 includes 85 lab fee
September 8, 9, 10 - Class Limit 16
Maiwa East: 1310 Odlum Drive, Vancouver BC



Working with indigo is a journey that connects us to people, places, and cultures. Each indigo vat has its own personality and each comes with its own traditions, history, and stories.

This workshop will take students through a number of recipes for creating a healthy working indigo vat—including the thiourea, ferrous, fruit, and henna vats. Students will explore the benefits of each vat and learn how to choose the right recipe for a particular project or environment.

Indigo is a versatile dye that lends itself perfectly to shaped resist, clamp resist, and numerous other traditional techniques used for millennia all around the world. In this three-day workshop, students will work hands-on, manipulating cotton and silk fabric to discover all the depth of shade possible with natural indigo. 

Instructor Bios

Danielle Bush is the manager of Maiwa Supply. Her career in textiles began with sewing and fashion studies at the University of the Fraser Valley. Upon completing courses in design, drawing, drafting, and construction, she was accepted to Maiwa Handprints to do a week-long practicum in the textiles collection. In her words, “It changed my life.” 

Since 2011 Danielle has developed and taught workshops for the Maiwa Textile Symposium.  In 2009 Danielle represented Maiwa at the International Shibori Conference held in France and in 2011 she was a facilitator for the Maiwa Natural Dye Master Class taught by Michel Garcia in Bengal, India. Danielle has a deep understanding and aptitude for dye techniques and creative process. Together with Sophena Kwon, Danielle travels to India each year where she helps manage the Maiwa studio.

Sophena Kwon has grown up with Maiwa as a family business. In 2009 she studied with Michel Garcia in France; in 2010 and 2011 she assisted with natural dye workshops in Peru and India. In 2013 Sophena assisted in natural dye troubleshooting at the Living Blue Cooperative in Bangladesh. Since 2012 she has been co-teaching with Charllotte Kwon and has helped deliver workshops at the Penland School of Craft, Canandaigua, and Shakerag.

In addition to her natural dye work, Sophena is a skilled photographer and clothing designer. Sophena travels each year with Maiwa to work with artisans throughout India.


Wednesday, April 22, 2015 No comments


Registration will open on June 22nd at 10am.
We will post full descriptions of the workshops with
dates, costs, and instructor bios over the next few weeks.
Our printed course calendar will be mailed at the end of May.



WORKSHOPS


Journey into Indigo - Danielle Bush & Sophena Kwon
Diagonal Knitting - Alison Ellen
Colour Study for Knitters - Alison Ellen
Knitting 3-D Shapes - Alison Ellen
Human Marks - Dorothy Caldwell
Made in Japan - Diana Sanderson
Tactile Notebooks and the Written Word - Sandra Brownlee
The Wayfarer’s Wandercoat Workshop - India Flint
Adventures with World Textiles - Beverly Gordon
Cloth and Memory - Beverly Gordon
Indigo: The Organic Vat - Michel Garcia
The Nature of Colour - Michel Garcia
Two Days of Islamic Geometric Design - Eric Broug
One Day of Islamic Geometric Design - Eric Broug
Knitting, Fulling, Felting - Aya Matsunaga
Story Painting on Cloth - Susan Shie
The Colour Workshop - Natalie Grambow
Baskets: Process and Material Explorations - Joan Carrigan
Studies in Contrast, Colour, and Design - Barbara Todd 
Decorative Mending - Sivia Harding
Fitted Cowl - Sivia Harding
Uncommon Cowls - Sivia Harding
The Creative Studio - Natalie Grambow
Expressive Painting and Printing with Procion MX - Sue Benner
Natural Dyes - Charllotte Kwon
Gee’s Bend Quilting - Gee’s Bend
Make a Joyful Noise - Lonnie Holley
Rust and Burn - Daniella Woolf
Encaustic Minimalist - Daniella Woolf
Bhutanese Weaving Two-Day Workshop - Wendy Garrity
Bhutanese Weaving Three-Day Workshop - Wendy Garrity
Resist Felting - Chad Alice Hagen
Books with a Twist - Chad Alice Hagen
The Art of Embroidery - Bonnie Adie
Mushrooms: Colours from the Forest - Ann Harmer
Down the Silk Road - Carol Soderlund
Rug Hooking - Michelle Sirois-Silver
A Study in Socks - Naomi Rozell
The Complete Feltmaker - Rene Evans
Advanced Rug Hooking - Michelle Sirois-Silver
One Pot Palette - Danielle Bush & Sophena Kwon
Natural Dyes: Print and Paint - Danielle Bush & Sophena Kwon
Bookbinding: Ancient to Modern - Gaye Hansen
Bookbinding: The Artist’s Book - Gaye Hansen
Introduction to Dyes - Natalie Grambow



LECTURES


Dorothy Caldwell  In Place
Sandra Brownlee Departures and Returns
India Flint String Theory
Beverly Gordon The Fabric of Our Lives
Michel Garcia Field Notes in the Colour Garden
Eric Broug  The Compass and The World
Susan Shie The Art of Story Painting
Aya Matsunaga Knitted Felt Works
Barbara Todd  Stone Drawings and Quilted Lines 
Sue Benner The Working Path
Gee’s Bend Quilters Gee’s Bend Lecture
Wendy Garrity Kushutara: A Weaver’s Journey
Chad Alice Hagen A Bookmaker’s Story 
Charllotte Kwon Return to Jawaja 


EVENTS and EXHIBITIONS

Lonnie Holley with Guests 
Nuno Trunk Show 
Selected Innovations: The Inspiring Legacy of Junichi Arai and Nuno 
Tasty Colours Aya Matsunaga

Thursday, April 02, 2015 No comments


With NaomiBelle Rozell
$195 Includes $90 lab fee
May 21, 28, June 4, 11, 18, 25 (Thursday Evenings)
6–9pm  class limit 15


Register Online

Join NaomiBelle for six consecutive Thursday evenings and take your knitting to the next level. Learn ways to cast on and bind off, increase and decrease stitches, and knit lace and cable stitch patterns. The classes will also include instruction in how to read knitting patterns, charts, and most important of all, the knitted stitch. It is the ability to read the knitted stitches that empowers a knitter to create without limitation.

Each week features separate knitting techniques. This is a hands-on class resulting in a collection of knitted swatches for future reference.

Students are encouraged to practise what has been learned between classes.  To facilitate this each person will cast on a sampler scarf in the first evening. This scarf will serve as a canvas for creative exploration, as students repeat and combine techniques. On the last evening the sampler scarf will be bound off and everyone will go home with a finished item.


NaomiBelle Rozell cannot recall a time when creativity was not part of her daily life.  Although she works with many types of crafts, most of her days are taken up with knitting. You can find her most Saturdays in Maiwa’s Supply Store in the Netloft on Granville Island.

She dedicates her work to her mother who knit her father’s dress socks for much of their married life. As Naomi writes, “Although I did not learn to knit from my mother, she is my inspiration for sock knitting. I well remember her putting aside her coffee cup and novel (yes, she read while she knit) as she focused on ‘turning the heel.’ Once complete she propped up her book, poured a fresh cup, and resumed her knitting as she read and enjoyed her coffee.  I can still hear her needles softly clicking, creating stitch after stitch after stitch.”









Friday, March 27, 2015 No comments

The Jewels of India

A new collection has just arrived.
We work with silversmiths to create pieces in 92.5% silver and gold plate. We look for traditional designs that fire the imagination. Works with the distinctive voice of Indian style.

The Jewels of India - closer than you think.

Now in the Main Maiwa Store on Granville Island.

Winter Hours: (January, February, March)
10am—6pm, 7 days a week.

Summer Hours (rest of the year)
10am—7pm, 7 days a week.




Friday, March 20, 2015 No comments

Beautiful buttons

Carved by hand

We have been keeping a team of inspired button-makers going for over ten years. Our buttons are made from horn, bone, and wood. They range from large pieces which are perfect for hand-knit sweaters to smaller works that add a special touch to a sleeve or jacket.

Now is the perfect time to stock up. Each button is 50% off its regular price. Only in Maiwa Supply, located in the Net Loft on Granville Island.

Sale runs until April 19, 2015.


Friday, March 13, 2015 No comments

Now is the time to master your technique. 
Learn the basics, refresh your skills, or get ready
 to start that project you've been dreaming about. 
Maiwa has a reputation for its workshops: 
expert instruction in a friendly class environment.

 Register today!



In fact, Pattern Drafting is already sold out 
and the rest are filling up. 
Make certain you don't miss your space.


Spring Workshops

Introduction to Sewing $295

Register for March
(April is Sold Out)

Includes $95 lab fee (covering project costs and a beginner sewing kit)
First offering March 14, 15 (Sat, Sun) • Second offering April 11, 12 (Sat, Sun)
10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Ideal for individuals who have never used a sewing machine or need a refresher of basic sewing techniques and machine operation.

Work step by step on two fun beginner sewing projects. A set of pillow cases and a reversible apron with pockets.

Techniques covered:
  • Sewing machine basics: how to thread, trouble shoot and maintain a domestic sewing machine. Sequence of steps while sewing. How to sew a straight line and curved line with ease.
  • How to operate an over-lock (serger) machine to finish raw edges.
  • How to read basic industry patterns.
  • How to prepare, pin, cut & mark fabric prior to construction.
  • How to present a professional looking project with proper pressing skills.
  • Solid understanding of beginner construction techniques such as seams, seam finishes and hems.

Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. 



Sewing Techniques ($100 each or $495 for all 6)

Register for all six workshops.

10am–5pm class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Each workshop is self-contained and may be taken alone or as part of the series. Students completing the series will come away with a solid grounding in all of these important techniques. Course cost includes a lab fee for each workshop ($20 - $30).

Stitches, Markings & Seams 
Friday March 20th. Register here.

Seam Finishes 
Saturday March 21st. Register here.

Hems 
Sunday March 22nd. Register here.

Buttons & Buttonholes 
Friday April 24th. Register here.

Fasteners 
Saturday April 25th. Register here.

Pockets 
Sunday April 26th. Register here.



Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. The Maiwa studio is well stocked for textile classes, however, if students have personal or favourite tools (scissors, rulers, pins etc.) they are welcome to bring them.


Introduction to Garment Construction $350

Register here.

Includes $30 lab fee   
March 30, 31, April 1, 2  (Mon-Thu) 10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Ready to make clothes? This course is for you. The focus will be on understanding the sequence of steps in garment construction, and how fabric transforms into a three dimensional form through intermediate sewing techniques.

With guidance, students will work their way through two garments: 
Straight skirt with zipper closure and a short sleeved top with placket and button closure. Both garments are made with woven fabrics. A set of sizes will be available for students to choose from.

Techniques covered:
  • Intermediate Sewing Techniques: Invisible zipper installation, button and hand sewn button bar, hook & eyes, in-set sleeves, darts, attaching interfacing, neckline facings, variety of hand sewn finishes to the hem and closures.
  • How to read industry patterns for apparel.
  • How to best place pattern pieces onto fabric, pin, cut, and mark fabric accordingly.
  • Sequence of steps in garment construction.

Note: students will be required to purchase materials (fabric, zipper, buttons, and matching thread) for the two projects. Supply lists will be given at registration. Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. 



Hand Sewing Couture Techniques $395

Register here.

Includes $30 lab fee   
May 11, 12, 13, 14, 15  (Mon-Fri) 10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



This course will explore the world of couture sewing by fully constructing a garment using hand-sewing techniques. No machines involved here. You will develop an appreciation for the skill of the human hand and its role in quality constructed garments. These are skills that anyone can learn.

Students will gear their garment towards evening wear, lingerie and/or detailed items with a focus on hard to handle fabrics such as silk, organza, chiffon. satin, lace, velvet, and others.

Techniques covered:
  • Alongside sewing individual garments, students will learn a variety of couture finishes specific to their projects.
  • Couture Techniques based on the student’s pattern. These may include: basic hand stitches, darts, pressing, seams, hems, seam finishes, decorative edging, button holes, fastenings, lacework and decorative details.

Note: students will be required to purchase a commercial pattern of their choice with corresponding materials. A detailed supply list with guidelines will be given at registration.



Introducing Sheila Wong


The fashion industry thrives on creativity, diversity and innovation. The same 3 concepts can be used to describe Sheila Wong Fashion Design Studio, or SWFDS as it is more commonly known in the Vancouver fashion circuit. The company, founded by Sheila Wong, who herself is a walking example of diversity (being French-Chinese Canadian), helps develop all aspects of fashion design, whether it be skills, creativity, marketing or simply making the numbers work.

Sheila Wong started showing interest in design at a very young age. While other teenagers aspired to be models on a runway, she was much more interested in the garments and accessories that made the models shine.  At the age of 18 she started her first company designing outfits and managing dance performers at music festivals in her home town of Calgary, Alberta. She knew she had found her passion the first time she saw her designs showcased in front of a large energetic crowd.

But ideas and talent don’t always guarantee success, so Sheila made sure she was ready to tackle whatever obstacles the industry might have. She first completed a Bachelors of Applied Business and Entrepreneurship Degree at Mount Royal University, with a focus on International Business. She then went on to obtain her Fashion Design Diploma from Vancouver’s own Blanche Macdonald Fashion Design Center. It was here that she fine tuned her skills and developed her ideas. Her time at Blanche Macdonald allowed her to shine in front of her peers and industry professionals, earning her the Design Portfolio of the Year award. After years of making sure she had the education to support her goals, she sought real-world experience, taking on positions like Studio Assistant at the Fashion Exchange building, Production Manager at clothing retailer Aritzia, and even instructing at Blanche Macdonald Fashion Center and Vancouver Community College in the Fashion Design programs. 

What truly makes Sheila Wong stand out in the industry, however, is her desire to help other artists succeed. Sheila loves collaborating with other designers and artisans, and has this to say to anyone who has ever wanted to see their own name on a piece of clothing: 

“Anyone can design and construct a garment, you just need the right amount of guidance and motivation. My goal is to help inspire people to create beautiful things. If you are passionate and driven, there is no reason why you cannot be creative every day.”


Wednesday, February 25, 2015 No comments


Racks of one-of-a-kind clothing production samples.
Priced at astonishing prices.

Everything between $10 and $85.

Only at the Main Maiwa Store
Granville Island.


Sales starts at 10am on
Monday February 16th.

See you there!



Friday, February 13, 2015 No comments



Now is the time to discover Maiwa furniture.
Salvaged and reclaimed hardwoods. Indian antiques.
You love what we do in cloth - now see what we can do with wood!

February 9 - 22, 2015
Winter Hours 10am - 6pm
Seven days a week.

Located in the center of the Netloft,
across from the Public Market, Granville Island
The artisan heart of Vancouver.

Maiwa.com
Sunday, February 08, 2015 No comments

Maiwa is pleased to be able to lend textiles to this event. Click on the link below for full details and to RVSP (no charge).

Textile Art Symposium: Saturday January 31, 2015 10:00 am – 3:00pm

Taking place in the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver Museum
555 Columbia Street Vancouver B.C Canada V6A 4H5 1.604.658.8880 www.cccvan.com

Each talk is accompanied by a slideshow.
10:00am - 11:00am: Jean Kares Clothing the Son of Heaven: The Emperor’s Robe
11:00am - 12:00pm: Dr. Angela Clarke "Threads of Life”  Birth, Marriage and Textiles in Italy c. 1500 to 1960
12:00pm - 1:00pm: Break
1:00 - 2:00pm: Liza Wajong Indonesian Traditional Textiles
2:00 - 3:00pm: Trish Graham African Textiles

Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver Museum: Multicultural Textile Symposium 多元文化染織藝術講解會
Friday, January 30, 2015 No comments

Registration is open for the first year of Maiwa's Spring Workshops.

In fact, Pattern Drafting is already sold out 
and the rest are filling up. 
Make certain you don't miss your space.

Complete listings are in our previous post
HERE

Wednesday, January 28, 2015 No comments

Put the work of artisan hands under your feet.

Handwoven works from the Artisans Alliance of Jawaja in INDIA, Naturally dyed tapestry weaves from Teotitlan in MEXICO, spectacular pieces from the DOBAG project in TURKEY, Beni Ourains from the Berber tribes in MOROCCO, and the distinctive Tiger Rugs from TIBET.

All carpets 30-50% off. Only in the main Maiwa store located in the Netloft on Granville Island.
Winter Hours - Open every day from 10am to 6pm.



Monday, January 19, 2015 No comments

For over ten years Maiwa has brought internationally acclaimed speakers, instructors and artisans to Vancouver with the Maiwa Textile Symposium. This spring we extend our commitment by launching the Maiwa School of Textiles and with it a new season of workshops.


We are proud to introduce our new season with the highly skilled and motivated Sheila Wong. Her drive and passion for textiles is matched only by her ability to communicate the joy of creating to both students and fellow artisans.  

Spring Workshops

Introduction to Sewing $295

Register for March
Register for April

Includes $95 lab fee (covering project costs and a beginner sewing kit)
First offering March 14, 15 (Sat, Sun) • Second offering April 11, 12 (Sat, Sun)
10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Ideal for individuals who have never used a sewing machine or need a refresher of basic sewing techniques and machine operation.

Work step by step on two fun beginner sewing projects. A set of pillow cases and a reversible apron with pockets.

Techniques covered:
  • Sewing machine basics: how to thread, trouble shoot and maintain a domestic sewing machine. Sequence of steps while sewing. How to sew a straight line and curved line with ease.
  • How to operate an over-lock (serger) machine to finish raw edges.
  • How to read basic industry patterns.
  • How to prepare, pin, cut & mark fabric prior to construction.
  • How to present a professional looking project with proper pressing skills.
  • Solid understanding of beginner construction techniques such as seams, seam finishes and hems.

Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. 



Sewing Techniques ($100 each or $495 for all 6)

Register for all six workshops.

10am–5pm class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Each workshop is self-contained and may be taken alone or as part of the series. Students completing the series will come away with a solid grounding in all of these important techniques. Course cost includes a lab fee for each workshop ($20 - $30).

Stitches, Markings & Seams 
Friday March 20th. Register here.

Seam Finishes 
Saturday March 21st. Register here.

Hems 
Sunday March 22nd. Register here.

Buttons & Buttonholes 
Friday April 24th. Register here.

Fasteners 
Saturday April 25th. Register here.

Pockets 
Sunday April 26th. Register here.



Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. The Maiwa studio is well stocked for textile classes, however, if students have personal or favourite tools (scissors, rulers, pins etc.) they are welcome to bring them.


Introduction to Garment Construction $350

Register here.

Includes $30 lab fee   
March 30, 31, April 1, 2  (Mon-Thu) 10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



Ready to make clothes? This course is for you. The focus will be on understanding the sequence of steps in garment construction, and how fabric transforms into a three dimensional form through intermediate sewing techniques.

With guidance, students will work their way through two garments: 
Straight skirt with zipper closure and a short sleeved top with placket and button closure. Both garments are made with woven fabrics. A set of sizes will be available for students to choose from.

Techniques covered:
  • Intermediate Sewing Techniques: Invisible zipper installation, button and hand sewn button bar, hook & eyes, in-set sleeves, darts, attaching interfacing, neckline facings, variety of hand sewn finishes to the hem and closures.
  • How to read industry patterns for apparel.
  • How to best place pattern pieces onto fabric, pin, cut, and mark fabric accordingly.
  • Sequence of steps in garment construction.

Note: students will be required to purchase materials (fabric, zipper, buttons, and matching thread) for the two projects. Supply lists will be given at registration. Students are encouraged to bring and learn on their own machines. In situations where this is not possible Maiwa can provide machines. 



Hand Sewing Couture Techniques $395

Register here.

Includes $30 lab fee   
May 11, 12, 13, 14, 15  (Mon-Fri) 10am–5pm  class limit 10
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada



This course will explore the world of couture sewing by fully constructing a garment using hand-sewing techniques. No machines involved here. You will develop an appreciation for the skill of the human hand and its role in quality constructed garments. These are skills that anyone can learn.

Students will gear their garment towards evening wear, lingerie and/or detailed items with a focus on hard to handle fabrics such as silk, organza, chiffon. satin, lace, velvet, and others.

Techniques covered:
  • Alongside sewing individual garments, students will learn a variety of couture finishes specific to their projects.
  • Couture Techniques based on the student’s pattern. These may include: basic hand stitches, darts, pressing, seams, hems, seam finishes, decorative edging, button holes, fastenings, lacework and decorative details.

Note: students will be required to purchase a commercial pattern of their choice with corresponding materials. A detailed supply list with guidelines will be given at registration.



Pattern Drafting – Pattern Blocks $495

Register here.

Includes $40 lab fee  
Part 1: May 22, 23, 24 (Fri-Sun), Part 2: May 30, 31 (Sat, Sun) 10am–5pm  class limit 8
Maiwa Loft, Granville Island, Vancouver, Canada
Note there are 5 days between the first and second parts of this workshop.



Create a set of basic pattern blocks to fit your measurements perfectly. This detailed course will work step by step on how to pattern draft a bodice, skirt and sleeve block to make up the basic dress foundation. Students will also test out their blocks by sewing muslin for fitting.

At the end of the course, students will have drafted their own basic dress foundation in which they can alter, fit and design to their desired style. Creating your blocks with professional guidance makes this course exceptionally rewarding.

Techniques covered:
  • Body measurements and figure analysis.
  • Introduction to pattern drafting by drafting a basic pattern set for personal use.
  • Understanding elements of patterns and marking them appropriately.
  • Creating muslins (fit samples) for each block. Learn how to fit and make necessary adjustments.

Students will be required to bring some basic supplies. A supply list will be provided at registration.



Introducing Sheila Wong


The fashion industry thrives on creativity, diversity and innovation. The same 3 concepts can be used to describe Sheila Wong Fashion Design Studio, or SWFDS as it is more commonly known in the Vancouver fashion circuit. The company, founded by Sheila Wong, who herself is a walking example of diversity (being French-Chinese Canadian), helps develop all aspects of fashion design, whether it be skills, creativity, marketing or simply making the numbers work.

Sheila Wong started showing interest in design at a very young age. While other teenagers aspired to be models on a runway, she was much more interested in the garments and accessories that made the models shine.  At the age of 18 she started her first company designing outfits and managing dance performers at music festivals in her home town of Calgary, Alberta. She knew she had found her passion the first time she saw her designs showcased in front of a large energetic crowd.

But ideas and talent don’t always guarantee success, so Sheila made sure she was ready to tackle whatever obstacles the industry might have. She first completed a Bachelors of Applied Business and Entrepreneurship Degree at Mount Royal University, with a focus on International Business. She then went on to obtain her Fashion Design Diploma from Vancouver’s own Blanche Macdonald Fashion Design Center. It was here that she fine tuned her skills and developed her ideas. Her time at Blanche Macdonald allowed her to shine in front of her peers and industry professionals, earning her the Design Portfolio of the Year award. After years of making sure she had the education to support her goals, she sought real-world experience, taking on positions like Studio Assistant at the Fashion Exchange building, Production Manager at clothing retailer Aritzia, and even instructing at Blanche Macdonald Fashion Center and Vancouver Community College in the Fashion Design programs. 

What truly makes Sheila Wong stand out in the industry, however, is her desire to help other artists succeed. Sheila loves collaborating with other designers and artisans, and has this to say to anyone who has ever wanted to see their own name on a piece of clothing: 

“Anyone can design and construct a garment, you just need the right amount of guidance and motivation. My goal is to help inspire people to create beautiful things. If you are passionate and driven, there is no reason why you cannot be creative every day.”


Sunday, January 11, 2015 1 comments


Handwoven works from the Artisans Alliance of Jawaja in INDIA, Naturally dyed tapestry weaves from Teotitlan in MEXICO, spectacular pieces from the DOBAG project in TURKEY, Beni Ourains from the Berber tribes in MOROCCO, and the distinctive Tiger Rugs from TIBET.

All carpets 30-50% off. Only in the main Maiwa store located in the Netloft on Granville Island.
Open every day from 10am to 6pm.

Tuesday, January 06, 2015 No comments

Wednesday, December 24, 2014 No comments


MAIWA EAST

Sale Starts Today!

30% off all furniture - November 13 - 16

It has been a few years since we've had a sale this big at Maiwa East
 — and it might be a few years before we have another.

Here's the deal.
1) 30% off all furniture.
2) No holds or layaways.
3) Only at our Maiwa East location. 

We look forward to seeing you there!


Sale Hours:
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
10am to 5pm.

Sale does not extend to bedding or
other non-furnature items.
Sale discount cannot be combined
with other discounts. 




Wednesday, November 12, 2014 No comments
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