That the “Paperless Society” hasn’t (yet) become reality is a godsend for artists. If you can cut paper, you can weave it into art.  When valued as a principal art medium, paper – recycled or refined – shines. Before cutting and weaving your first paper strip, Carol will introduce you to masterful “paper-weaving paintings” from ancient China to impressive works by contemporary paper weavers. She will then instruct in the safe use of tools, help you select papers of suitable weight, texture, and flexibility, and teach methods of weaving paper-on-paper, paper interlaced with yarn, and paper woven with natural objects. Old photographs, greeting cards and practice paintings from home can be woven into art.  Pencils, inks or paints can add color and depth to your work. Bring your imagination, paper stash, ruler, and cutting tools. (A supply list will be sent.) Specialty art papers and paper yarn can be purchased from Carol in class.

Carol Heil teaches fiber arts in summer and winter programs at The Clearing. She is a former Board Secretary, docent and bookstore volunteer. In 2024, Carol moved from Ellison Bay to Accokeek, MD, where she lives with her husband in Piscataway Park, a nationally-protected area with trails, a colonial farm and amazing views of George Washington’s Mt. Vernon. “Leaving Door wasn’t easy,” Carol says, “but we’re blessed to live near family, on land with towering poplars, a winding creek and abundant wildlife. Nature is often the subject of Carol’s art; when not, she accepts that simply being in nature frees her to be creative. Carol is a member of the Accokeek Arts Alliance and the Potomac Fiber Arts Guild.

Level: All Levels