Good morning! We're into spring now, officially one day into it! It's a bit drab out today but the temps were above freezing last night so we're heading in the right direction.
I've been preparing to teach a class next September at the fantastic Duluth Rug School, located in Proctor, MN, which is just on the edge of Duluth, MN at the head of Lake Superior! Duluth is my home town and its such a joy to go back anytime but especially for rug camp!
In my preparations for my class, now that I have my list of students, I've been formulating a note to send to them, to get to know them a little, to learn their goals for rug camp, if any, and to be sure to be able to bring what I need to school for them. I know I'll need to bring wool, patterns, scissors, markers, etc. but I also need to bring my experiences, my color knowledge, my curious mind and my love of the craft. I believe each teacher needs to be open to the students goals, trouble areas and their desires for their class project and time in class. I like the challenges and new perspectives that each student brings along with hopefully getting to know each student on a personal level, if possible. I've been a teacher and student in rug schools and have experienced good and not so good in each setting.
I hope that students planning to go to a rug camp or school would bring their best in communication, goals, trouble areas of concern and openness to learning something new each time. I know everyone is hoping for the best experiences as they come to class each day. My advice for students is to think about your goals and be sure to communicate them to your teacher either prior to class or as soon as possible. Communication with your teacher prior to class is really the best, so she knows what you need or don't need from her. Areas like color planning, the use of textures, the style of hooking you prefer and the degree of the style you prefer are all very helpful for your teacher. By degree of style, I am referring to primitive mostly, as the "primitiveness" of a design can vary greatly. Knowing what colors you envision in your rug is also very helpful and can aid color planning so much. I think what I am trying to say is that the teacher really wants to bring her best and I do encourage students to PLAN their experience before rug school starts. I'm so excited to help my students get where they want to go with their rugs, using all of their input as well as my advice but there needs to be planning on both sides. I truly don't mean to preach or scold but man, being ready for school will be so much more meaningful, if we plan together.
Rug school is a truly joyful, encouraging time and I hope you all plan to attend a school, camp, or retreat sometime soon!