Learn to create the "shag" effect in mosaic art
Date: Friday February 28, 2025
Time: 10am - 5pm
Cost: $225 plus $45 materials fee
Non-traditional use of smalti is all the rage! Learn how to create fun colourful smalti “shag” mosaic in this hands-on, one day workshop. The first day begins with a comprehensive lecture and slide show on the “whys and wherefores” of smalti, followed by an examination of suitable bases, adhesives, and design possibilities for this technique. The cutting of the matchstick sized “shags”, a process that requires some finesse and precision, will be demonstrated, and practised.
Shag rug mosaic has its own laying style and andamento technique that is both fascinating and complicated. Margo will show you how to navigate the various decisions required for each section and piece. Expect lots of great tips on how to both create your piece and make it even more interesting.
Class participants will receive individual attention as they work on a 10cm by 15cm (or similar) shag rug style mosaic in smalti. Those students who do not finish will leave with materials to finish their project. A course outline will be provided, and students will depart with the skills to make creative shag rug style mosaics on their own. This course will particularly benefit those students of all levels who want to try working with smalti, to learn to cut more precisely, or to explore a crazy, unusual, spiky type of mosaic.
Students in this workshop will be provided with all materials except wheeled glass nippers, tweezers, and protective eyewear.
What to bring: Please bring wheeled glass nippers (Leponitt brand preferred though not required, Montolit brand not suitable for this application) and safety glasses to the workshop, as well as any magnifying eyewear or tools if required or desired.