Monday, May 04, 2020

Owing to the times, the Fond du Lac Public Library’s Idea Studio has named its first of four paid virtual summer makers-in-residence. Sewer and needleworker Stacey Burkhart will be offering virtual classes, interactive question-and-answer sessions and exhibits of her work.

Burkhart, of Sobieski, Wisconsin, makes one-of-a-kind stuffed animals, often using upcycled fabrics and clothing.

Burkhart will offer virtual “office hours” 3-4 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays on the Idea Studio’s Facebook Live feed, facebook.com/ideastudioFDLPL/, where she will show her work and answer questions.

Also, Burkhart will teach a virtual workshop every Friday. These will include “Basic Textile Collage,” “Introduction to Creative Pattern Making,” “Going 3-D with Fabric” and “Textile Memorial Work.” For times, details and registration information, visit the Calendar at fdlpl.org or facebook.com/ideastudioFDLPL/.

Burkhart attributes her talent and love of sewing to her grandmother, who first sat her down at an antique Singer sewing machine when she was 6 years old. In her business, Eight Trees Co., Burkhart turns clients’ treasured clothing and fabrics into heirloom creatures. Burkhart says she prefers to work with upcycled materials; combining different textures and colors challenges her imagination.

The Idea Studio is still accepting applications for June, July and August paid virtual makers-in-residence. The program is open to makers, artists, musicians, technologists, artisans and inventors. Makers are invited to help library patrons explore creative pursuits through virtual office hours, workshops and exhibitions. The details of the program and link to the application can be found at fdlpl.org/residency.