Native Plants Textile Collage Workshop with Judy Gates
Using the watercolors created by Catherine Fubish, an American botanist who collected, classified and illustrated the native flora of Maine in the 1800 and 1900s, we’ll create collages of native wildflowers. You’ll have several species to choose from. Starting with a pencil outline, small snips of different fabrics are layered and held in place temporarily with water-soluble fabric glue.
While closeup the smaller, layered pieces can be seen, from a distance they will blend to make a cohesive picture. When satisfied with the image, the collage is layered with quilt batting and muslin, then topped with tulle (fine mesh) to hold the piecing in place. Finally, stitching adds texture and structure. In this workshop, you’ll create your own collage using a combination of your own fabric scraps and provided supplies. This is intended as a no-sew workshop, with machine stitching completed at home afterwards if desired.
Supplies to bring
• Small, sharp scissors
• Cotton cloth to work on, e.g. any 2′ x 2′ or larger drop cloth or cardboard
• Pencil and eraser or dissolvable fabric pen
Spend a day immersed in native plants, habitat gardening, and creative exploration at Maine Audubon’s Native Plants Education Center. These monthly programs combine hands-on learning with opportunities to connect more deeply with the plants and ecosystems that sustain Maine’s wildlife.
$40 Members/$50 Nonmembers
Sign up for both morning and afternoon sessions on the same day and receive $10 off the total cost!
Morning workshops focus on practical seasonal skills such as seed collection, plant propagation, garden maintenance, ecological gardening techniques, and habitat stewardship. During midday open shopping hours, visitors can browse a curated selection of native plants and receive guidance from Maine Audubon staff.
Midday Native Plants Nursery Shopping Opportunity 11 am-1 pm Browse the nursery at Gilsland Farm and ask questions of our Native Plants team! It is the perfect time to purchase plants for the fall planting season!
Afternoon sessions feature nature-inspired art programming designed to foster observation, creativity, and a deeper appreciation of the natural world.
Participants may register for individual workshops or make a day of it by attending multiple sessions. Programs are suitable for gardeners, artists, naturalists, and anyone interested in learning more about Maine native plants and habitats.
Morning Workshops: 9–10:30 am
Native Plant Nursery Open Shopping: 11 am–1 pm
Afternoon Nature Art Workshop: 1:30–4 pm
Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email events@maineaudubon.org. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date.
