Pattern & Print

MARRAKESH - Pine Cone Motif
I just came back from a very short trip to Marrakesh to celebrate my 25th wedding anniversary. While we were there we went to see the Madrasa Ben Yousef - a religious college from the 16th century.

I might have to write a rare newsletter about it all, but in the meantime have a look at how the simple pine cone motif was used in multiple ways as a theme for the intricately carved designs! (the upside-down heart shape is 2 pine cones).

But why a pine cone? It seems that the pine cone is an ancient symbol used in many cultures across the world and generally represents "divine wisdom" - the perfect motif for a religious college then. 😊

Pattern in porcelain.

A FEW RARE THINGS Slowly things have been emerging from the kiln. I'm starting to get into the rhythm of slow creation, building on what you've done before - step by step - and starting the next before the previous is complete - very different to the immediacy of painting and even printing...

Thought it might be helpful to see all your choices of festive printing workshops in one place. Why not bring a friend or family and get into the festive spirit together, while printing your own gifts wrap & tags!

All info can be accessed via the links in my bio!

LINO WORKSHOPS: Want to make the Festive Season more personal this year? Why not bring a friend, catch up and learn to carve your own festive lino motif to print on paper, cards, tote bags etc.

I have 2 workshops coming up:

Sunday 16 Nov
2-5pm
Old Barn Edinburgh ()
Print on Tote Bags

Wednesday 3 Dec
6:30pm - 9pm
Creative Bloc, Glasgow ()
Print on Gift Wrap & Tags

I will put some booking links in my bio😉

A few rare things... work in progress, before glazing.

Next Saturday I will be teaching at the Central Scotland School of Craft ( ) . We will start the day getting a feel for the flow of pattern by printing with Indian Blocks.

Then after a short lunch break, I will help you to design your own motif that you will be repeating to make a design. It helps to have a vague idea of what you'd like to create - so bring some images or ideas if you can.

Then you'll be carving these designs into lino and printing your own pattern by hand.

It's a full & busy day! A real creative boost. There's a link in my bio and in stories, to book. Hope to see you there!




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