🧵 Live on Zoom | April 29th & May 6th | 6:00-8:30 PM CST
2 Part Beginner Virtual Course
This two-part virtual class teaches the Flow Method, a structured approach to creating symbolic, intuitive textile portraits using burlap, yarn, and beads. Rooted in ancestral inspiration and expressed through modern technique, this experience focuses on building depth, texture, and meaning through fiber.
This session is inspired by Himba women and centers on the topic of Adornment as Identity and Ancestral Expression, how hair, texture, color, and ornamentation communicate lineage, status, beauty, and spiritual presence. This perspective will guide both the creative process and the intention behind each piece.
Students will learn how to construct a portrait on an embroidery hoop using layered yarn placement, controlled tension, and intentional composition. Emphasis is placed on translating identity, culture, and emotion into textile form while maintaining a clean, handcrafted aesthetic.
This is a two-part beginner-level course designed for those who want a more detailed, guided experience. No prior experience is required. You will learn how to handle yarn and fabric, build dimension, shape facial features, and create cohesive, powerful textile portraits using simple techniques and material
Class includes:
• Step-by-step guidance through a full portrait piece
• Techniques for layering yarn to create depth and structure
• Methods for shaping facial features using burlap and thread
• Guidance on color balance using earthy, muted tones
• Bead integration and finishing details
• Composition and spacing for a balanced final piece
By the end of the course, you will complete a fully developed textile portrait and gain a repeatable method you can continue using in your own work.
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16”–20” embroidery hoop
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Natural burlap fabric (approx. ½ yard)
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12”x25” burlap fabric in light-medium brown(for face). If you cannot find brown burlap fabric you can order it or use brown Rit dye to dye a 12x25” piece of your natural burlap fabric
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Chunky yarn in rust/reddish color (for base structure and hair)
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Medium or regular yarn in same color (for detail and control)
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Black yarn (for outlining and definition)
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Yarn for lips (color of your choice)
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Yarn needles (recommended: at least 5)
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Fusible web (double-sided fabric adhesive)
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- (Example: Wonder Under, HeatnBond, Steam-A-Seam often found in craft stores or order online.) Only 1/4 yard wI’ll be needed. Hobby Lobby also sells in the fabric cutting section.
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Hair beads (large hole)-I used antique looking beads I ordered from Etsy
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Cowrie shells or bone color beads for necklace
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Wooden / metallic beads (optional)
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Optional small thick hoop earrings (again I ordered small antique hoops for that vintage/aged feel)
Facial cutouts will be sent via email
• Optional:
– Chalk or fabric pencil or pencil (for light sketching)
– Tweezers (for precise placement)
– Small comb or fingers (to separate/fray yarn ends for realism)
-Facial cutouts will be email to you prior to class
Instructor
Maria Cole
Founder of Zamghuden Studios and creator of the Flow Method, a distinctive burlap and yarn textile portrait technique influenced by African, tribal, and Afro-futuristic aesthetics.
💬 Questions?
DM us on Instagram [@zamghuden or @goddessflow] or email us directly through our contact page.
info@zamghudenstudios.com
