The School of Making - Workshops and Events

DIY Sewing Kits

The School of Making - Natalie's Favorites

2021 Swatch of the Month Subscriber Inclusion

Tops + Dresses

AC Sale Inclusion

Sale Inclusion

TSOM Sale Inclusion

Coats + Jackets

Workshop

Dresses

Organic Core Essentials

Skirts + Pants

Host a Party Inclusion

Maker Supplies Stencils

Studio Books Patterns

Patterns

Life + Living

TSOM Tool and Kit Sale Inclusion

The School of Making - Workshop + Events - Studio Week

Build a Wardrobe Inclusion

TSOM End-of-Year Sale Staging

AC Material: MWJ Basic

AC Material: LWJ Basic

AC Material: LWR Basic

AC Material: Waffle Basic

AC Material: HWR Basic

AC Material: Book

AC Related: Life + Living

AC Material: Canvas

TSOM Related: DIY Kits

TSOM Related: Books

TSOM Related: Tools

TSOM Related: Stencils

TSOM Materials: MWJ

TSOM Materials: Books

TSOM Materials: Tools

TSOM Materials: Stencils

TSOM Materials: Patterns

TSOM Related: Patterns

AC Related: Core

The School of Making Pre-Holiday Sale

TSOM In-Stock Holiday Shop

AC In-Stock Holding

Bottoms + Accessories

Cook + Dine

Top - Kits

Bottom - Kits

Outerwear - Kits

Books

Maker Supplies

Stencils

Fabric + Bundles

Swatch of the Month

Collection

The School of Making Gift Guide

Self Care

AC Material: Beauty Self Care

AC Related: Self Care

DIY Kits - 24% Off - HITTHEROAD - October 15, 2022

Featured: The In-Stock Holiday Shop

TSOM Pre-Holiday Sale Inclusion 2023

Holiday Discounted Collection 2022

AC Related: Collection

AC Material: Indigo Waffle

AC Material: Noto MWJ

AC Material: Indigo LWJ + MWJ

AC Holding: Core Essentials

Staging | DIY Kit Page

AC Holding: Collection

AC Material: Oak Spring

TSOM | Holding

TSOM Related: Workshops + Events

TSOM Materials: Workshops + Events

AC Holding: Featured

AC Holding: Self Care

24% for 24 Hours Discount

TSOM Featured

AC Featured

The School of Making | Sale

AC In-Stock Sale Inclusion

TSOM Sample Sale Inclusion

AC Last Chance

TSOM Related: Indigo

ThankYou10 Discount

ThankYou15 Discount

AC Inventory Sale Inclusion

STITCHALONG15

End of Summer Sale

AC Sample Sale Inclusion

Heath Ceramics x Alabama Chanin

Core Sale Inclusion

PT | Be Involved

DIY Kit Sale Inclusion

TSOM Inventory Sale Inclusion

Workshop Sale Inclusion

SOTM Workshops

TSOM Travel Kit - Delete after Feb '24

Travel Kit Virtual

Core Basic Waffle Pieces

Title

Option

Amount

Alabama Chanin

The School of Making

Project Threadways

Events

About

Experiences

Workshops and Events

Fabric and Bundles

Maker Supplies and Stencils

Books and Patterns

The School of Making Club

Donate

Mission

Programs

The Archives

Symposium 2025

Organic Fabric

Supply Chain

Founded on the ideas of cultural preservation of education, and the enrichment of life through the living arts, The School of Making® offers workshops for an open exchange of celebration, community, ideas, maker skills, supply chain transparency, and education. 

Details The annual Project Threadways Symposium brings together scholars, activists, makers, and thinkers to present research, share stories, and encourage dialogue about history, community, and power—all through the lens of fashion and textiles. Presentations take place in Florence, Alabama, however virtual registration is also available. In 2025, our theme is Food, Clothing, and Shelter. Presentations will explore the intersection of art and necessity, connect climate and culture, and share stories of artists, designers, and craftspeople who shape our everyday lives. Speakers include: Blair LM Kelley — Director of the Center for the Study of the American South at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and author of Black Folk: The Roots of the Black Working Class.Windy Chien — Artist and author of The Year of Knots.Liz Lambert — Designer and visionary at Lambert McGuire Design, MML Hospitality, El Cosmico, and the Far West Collective.Jack Sanders — Design Build Architect from Rural Studio, Founder of Design Build Adventure, collaborator of The Longtime, El Cosmico, and other projects.Cathy Bailey — Designer, maker, and co-owner of Heath Ceramics and co-author of Tile Makes the Room: Good Design from Heath Ceramics.Jacqueline Bishop — Writer, artist, professor, and scholar.The Kitchen Sisters — Davia Nelson and Nikki Silva, lifelong documentarians and producers of the NPR series Lost & Found Sound, The Sonic Memorial Project, Hidden Kitchens, The Hidden World of Girls, and the Radiotopia podcast, The Kitchen Sisters Present.Judith Winfrey — Food activist, organic farmer, and co-founder of Love is Love farm, Wholesome Wave Georgia, and Community Farmers Markets.Lisa Donovan — Writer, pastry chef, and author of Our Lady of Perpetual Hunger.Board co-chair and photographer Rinne Allen joins Natalie Chanin in conversation about our oral history programming and their recent visit to West Texas organic cotton farms. Join us for a reception with chef Lisa Donovan on Thursday, April 24th. Tickets available here. (Note: Admission to the reception is included with in-person symposium tickets. If you have purchased in-person tickets to the symposium and would like to attend the reception, please email think@projectthreadways.org to RSVP.) Find the full schedule of events below.

<h3>Details</h3>
The annual Project Threadways Symposium brings together scholars, activists, makers, and thinkers to present research, share stories, and encourage dialogue about history, community, and power—all through the lens of fashion and textiles. Presentations take place in Florence, Alabama, however virtual registration is also available.
In 2025, our theme is Food, Clothing, and Shelter. Presentations will explore the intersection of art and necessity, connect climate and culture, and share stories of artists, designers, and craftspeople who shape our everyday lives. Speakers include:
Blair LM Kelley <meta charset="utf-8">— Director of the Center for the Study of the American South at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and author of Black Folk: The Roots of the Black Working Class. Windy Chien <meta charset="utf-8">— Artist and author of The Year of Knots. Liz Lambert <meta charset="utf-8">— Designer and visionary at Lambert McGuire Design, MML Hospitality, El Cosmico, and the Far West Collective. Jack Sanders <meta charset="utf-8">— Design Build Architect from Rural Studio, Founder of Design Build Adventure, collaborator of The Longtime, El Cosmico, and other projects. Cathy Bailey <meta charset="utf-8">— Designer, maker, and co-owner of Heath Ceramics and co-author of Tile Makes the Room: Good Design from Heath Ceramics. Jacqueline Bishop <meta charset="utf-8">— Writer, artist, professor, and scholar. The Kitchen Sisters <meta charset="utf-8">— Davia Nelson and Nikki Silva, lifelong documentarians and producers of the NPR series Lost &amp; Found Sound, The Sonic Memorial Project, Hidden Kitchens, The Hidden World of Girls, and the Radiotopia podcast, The Kitchen Sisters Present. Judith Winfrey — Food activist, organic farmer, and co-founder of Love is Love farm, Wholesome Wave Georgia, and Community Farmers Markets. Lisa Donovan — Writer, pastry chef, and author of Our Lady of Perpetual Hunger. Board co-chair and photographer Rinne Allen joins Natalie Chanin in conversation about our oral history programming and their recent visit to West Texas organic cotton farms. 
Join us for a reception with chef Lisa Donovan on Thursday, April 24th. <a href="https://alabamachanin.com/products/the-shoals-project-threadways-symposium-reception" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Tickets available here</a>. (Note: Admission to the reception is included with in-person symposium tickets. If you have purchased in-person tickets to the symposium and would like to attend the reception, please email <meta charset="utf-8"><a href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org" rel="noopener" target="_blank">think@projectthreadways.org</a> to RSVP.)
Find the full schedule of events below.

A collage of images featuring works by Symposium presenters.

A detail image of textile artwork by artist Windy Chien.

Zero waste fabric swatch in Loulou, and the Project Threadways logo.

A collage of images featuring works by Symposium presenters. double

Project Threadways 2025 Symposium | April 25-26, 2025

In-Person

In-Person - Student

Virtual Symposium

Details We are delighted to kick off the 2025 Project Threadways Symposium with a reception at The Factory for guests and friends.Join Natalie and all of us at Alabama Chanin, The School of Making, and Project Threadways for light appetizers and drinks in celebration of The Shoals community. Small bites will be prepared by chef Lisa Donovan.Note: Admission to the reception is included with in-person symposium tickets. If you have purchased in-person tickets and would like to attend the reception, please email think@projectthreadways.org to RSVP. Thursday, April 245:30 p.m.The Factory462 Lane DriveFlorence, AL 35630

<h3>Details</h3>
We are delighted to kick off the <a rel="noopener" href="https://alabamachanin.com/products/project-threadways-2025-symposium" target="_blank">2025 Project Threadways Symposium</a> with a reception at The Factory for guests and friends. Join Natalie and all of us at Alabama Chanin, The School of Making, and Project Threadways for light appetizers and drinks in celebration of The Shoals community. Small bites will be prepared by chef <a href="https://www.lisamariedonovan.com/about" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Lisa Donovan</a>. Note: Admission to the reception is included with in-person symposium tickets. If you have purchased in-person tickets and would like to attend the reception, please email <a rel="noopener" href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org" target="_blank">think@projectthreadways.org</a> to RSVP. 
Thursday, April 24 5:30 p.m. The Factory 462 Lane Drive Florence, AL 35630

Embroidery: Threads and Stories book open to the Muscle Shoals city welcome sign. Image of chef Lisa Donovan.

Heath Ceramics plates from the Couple line.

Wine glasses lined up on a table in The Factory café.

Project Threadways Symposium Reception | April 24, 2025

Default Title

Details Retreat: $2,498 — all instruction, most materials, and some meals included*Lodging: Please note, lodging is separate. Email events@lospoblanos.com to book your lodging directly with Los Poblanos**Join an inspiring three-day creative retreat at the breathtaking Los Poblanos Historic Inn & Organic Farm in New Mexico, co-hosted by long-time friends and creative collaborators Cathy Bailey of Heath Ceramics and Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin. This immersive experience is designed to explore creativity, craftsmanship, and community, offering a rare opportunity to learn from two visionary leaders in design and making. All of this takes place in the idyllic setting of Los Poblanos Resort & Organic Farm. Over three days, you’ll delve into the creative process, sewing, ceramics, and more, surrounded by stunning lavender fields, gardens, and the renowned Los Poblanos kitchens. Come with an open mind and ready hands as we engage in sketching, journaling, hand stitching, textile crafting, and ceramic bead-making. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to explore and create. Cathy Bailey will lead sessions on the creative process, sharing insights from her work at the intersection of ceramics, design, and material innovation. Natalie Chanin will guide hands-on explorations of sustainable handcrafted textiles, including her signature techniques in sewing, material studies, and zero-waste design. Each workshop encourages experimentation, discovery, and personal creativity. *Refer to the schedule below for meals. An additional selection of art and textile supplies will be available throughout the retreat from the Los Poblanos Farm Shop—not required.**Guests will receive details on discounted lodging rates and room selection at Los Poblanos after registration. Explore the options and amenities here. Please note that this workshop is non-refundable. WHAT'S INCLUDED The retreat includes all workshop events and materials, some meals, and a public talk featuring Los Poblanos founder Matt Rembe, Cathy Bailey and Robin Petravic of Heath Ceramics, and Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin, The School of Making, and the nonprofit Project Threadways. This conversation will delve into craft, preservation, place, and the significance of sustainable design. Additionally, a pop-up trunk show at the Los Poblanos shop will showcase exclusive pieces from Heath Ceramics and Alabama Chanin, with options for custom orders. Lodging starting at $600 per person/double occupancy for 3 nights. See the schedule of events below for more details on meals.

<h3>Details</h3>
Retreat:  $2,498 — all instruction, most materials, and some meals included* Lodging: Please note, lodging is separate. Email events@lospoblanos.com to book your lodging directly with Los Poblanos** Join an inspiring three-day creative retreat at the breathtaking Los Poblanos Historic Inn &amp; Organic Farm in New Mexico, co-hosted by long-time friends and creative collaborators Cathy Bailey of Heath Ceramics and Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin. This immersive experience is designed to explore creativity, craftsmanship, and community, offering a rare opportunity to learn from two visionary leaders in design and making. All of this takes place in the idyllic setting of Los Poblanos Resort &amp; Organic Farm.
Over three days, you’ll delve into the creative process, sewing, ceramics, and more, surrounded by stunning lavender fields, gardens, and the renowned Los Poblanos kitchens. Come with an open mind and ready hands as we engage in sketching, journaling, hand stitching, textile crafting, and ceramic bead-making. No prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to explore and create.
Cathy Bailey will lead sessions on the creative process, sharing insights from her work at the intersection of ceramics, design, and material innovation. Natalie Chanin will guide hands-on explorations of sustainable handcrafted textiles, including her signature techniques in sewing, material studies, and zero-waste design. Each workshop encourages experimentation, discovery, and personal creativity.
*Refer to the schedule below for meals. An additional selection of art and textile supplies will be available throughout the retreat from the Los Poblanos Farm Shop—not required. **Guests will receive details on discounted lodging rates and room selection at Los Poblanos after registration. Explore the options and amenities <a href="https://lospoblanos.com/accommodations/rooms">here</a>. <meta charset="utf-8">
Please note that this workshop is non-refundable. 
<h3>WHAT'S INCLUDED 
</h3>
The retreat includes all workshop events and materials, some meals, and a public talk featuring Los Poblanos founder Matt Rembe, Cathy Bailey and Robin Petravic of Heath Ceramics, and Natalie Chanin of Alabama Chanin, The School of Making, and the nonprofit Project Threadways. This conversation will delve into craft, preservation, place, and the significance of sustainable design. Additionally, a pop-up trunk show at the Los Poblanos shop will showcase exclusive pieces from Heath Ceramics and Alabama Chanin, with options for custom orders.
Lodging starting at $600 per person/double occupancy for 3 nights.  See the schedule of events below for more details on meals.

Los Poblanos Creative Retreat | July 14-17, 2025

DETAILS Instructor: Natalie Chanin and The School of Making TeamIn this in-depth workshop, Natalie shares elements of fabric design from concept to completion, teaching on the various facets of the design journey and development. Explore the process with swatches of organic cotton, experimenting with color development, stencil design, and hand-painting in combination with embroidery techniques. See the itinerary below for more details.Wednesday, August 20 – Friday August 22, 2025Workshop begins Wednesday at 10:00amAlabama Chanin @ The Factory462 Lane DriveFlorence, AL 35630Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable. *Excluded from all sales and promotions. WHAT'S INCLUDED WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE:• Fabric swatches• Light breakfast, lunch, and afternoon coffee• Assistance in planning your trip• A studio tourSTUDIO ACCESS:• An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques• One-on-one instruction time with the team• All tools needed along the way

<h3>DETAILS</h3>
Instructor: Natalie Chanin and The School of Making Team In this in-depth workshop, Natalie shares elements of fabric design from concept to completion, teaching on the various facets of the design journey and development. Explore the process with swatches of organic cotton, experimenting with color development, stencil design, and hand-painting in combination with embroidery techniques. See the itinerary below for more details. Wednesday, August 20 – Friday August 22, 2025 Workshop begins Wednesday at 10:00am Alabama Chanin @ The Factory 462 Lane Drive Florence, AL 35630 Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable.
 *Excluded from all sales and promotions.
<h3>WHAT'S INCLUDED</h3>
WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE: <meta charset="utf-8"><meta charset="utf-8">• Fabric swatches • Light breakfast, lunch, and afternoon coffee <meta charset="utf-8">• Assistance in planning your trip <meta charset="utf-8">• A studio tour STUDIO ACCESS: <meta charset="utf-8">• An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques <meta charset="utf-8">• One-on-one instruction time with the team <meta charset="utf-8">• All tools needed along the way

An artisan works with a stencil to hand-paint fabric.

A collage of images featuring various swatches, stencils, and a portrait of Natalie Chanin.

A Sequined fabric swatch and the Embroidery Threads and Stories book.

Swatch featuring negative reverse Tessellation in Sand and Natural.

A collage of images featuring swatches, books, and photos of The Factory store.

The Shoals: Fabric Design and Painting @ The Factory | August 20-22, 2025

Pay in Full | August 2025

Deposit | August 2025

DETAILS Instructor: The School of Making TeamThe popular Three-Day Workshop opens our studio doors at The Factory in Florence, Alabama, and allows participants to work with our in-house team. Participants will learn about The School of Making materials, the Physics of Sewing, and hand-sewing techniques. This workshop is suited to beginners and experienced sewers alike.Wednesday, November 5 – Friday, November 7, 2025Workshop begins Wednesday at 10:00amAlabama Chanin @ The Factory462 Lane DriveFlorence, AL 35630Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable. To provide more options and flexibility to our guests, sewing kits are now sold separately from workshops hosted at The Factory. Pricing has been adjusted to reflect this change. We are also offering new payment options: choose to pay for the workshop in full or to pay a deposit, with the remainder due 30 days prior to the workshop. For more information, please contact us. *Excluded from all sales and promotions. WHAT'S INCLUDED WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE:• Lunch and afternoon coffee• Assistance in planning your trip• A studio tourSTUDIO ACCESS:• Garment samples in a full range of sizes to try on• An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques• One-on-one instruction time with the team• Assistance with fitting and alterations• All tools needed along the way

<h3>DETAILS</h3>
Instructor: The School of Making Team <meta charset="utf-8">The popular Three-Day Workshop opens our studio doors at The Factory in Florence, Alabama, and allows participants to work with our in-house team. Participants will learn about The School of Making materials, the Physics of Sewing, and hand-sewing techniques. <meta charset="utf-8">This workshop is suited to beginners and experienced sewers alike. Wednesday, November 5 – Friday, <meta charset="utf-8">November 7, 2025 Workshop begins Wednesday at 10:00am Alabama Chanin @ The Factory 462 Lane Drive Florence, AL 35630 Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable. To provide more options and flexibility to our guests, sewing kits are now sold separately from workshops hosted at The Factory. Pricing has been adjusted to reflect this change. We are also offering new payment options: choose to pay for the workshop in full or to pay a deposit, with the remainder due 30 days prior to the workshop. For more information, please <a href="https://alabamachanin.com/contact">contact us</a>.
<meta charset="utf-8"> <meta charset="utf-8">*Excluded from all sales and promotions.
<h3>WHAT'S INCLUDED</h3>
WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE: <meta charset="utf-8">• Lunch and afternoon coffee <meta charset="utf-8">• Assistance in planning your trip <meta charset="utf-8">• A studio tour STUDIO ACCESS: <meta charset="utf-8">• Garment samples in a full range of sizes to try on <meta charset="utf-8">• An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques <meta charset="utf-8">• One-on-one instruction time with the team <meta charset="utf-8">• Assistance with fitting and alterations <meta charset="utf-8">• All tools needed along the way

Chalkboard with The School of Making hashtag written on it.

Corset kit with new leaves pattern in black with kit contents. Made with 100% organic cotton. 

The School of Making Notions, bead, embroidery floss, and needles.

The Shoals: Three-Day Workshop @ The Factory | November 5-7, 2025

Pay in Full | November 2025

Deposit | November 2025

DETAILS Please scroll down below the product description to read our list of Frequently Asked Questions. Instructor: The School of Making TeamEnjoy a private group workshop experience with friends, family, and The School of Making Team. The Private Studio Workshop offers a five-day learning experience for groups of 12. Customize your workshop to explore hand-sewing, patternmaking, stenciling, design, and more—at any skill level. Monday – FridayReach out for date availabilityAlabama Chanin @ The Factory462 Lane DriveFlorence, AL 35630Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable. For more information, please contact us. *Excluded from all sales and promotions. WHAT'S INCLUDED WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE:• One custom kit of any style, stencil, and technique from The School of Making• Light breakfast, lunch, and afternoon coffee• One organic cotton tote and notebook from Alabama Chanin• Assistance in planning your trip and custom workshop itinerarySTUDIO ACCESS:• Cutting, stenciling, and design departments• All tools needed along the way• Garment samples in a full range of sizes to try on• An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques• One-on-one instruction time with the team• Assistance with fitting and alterations

<h3>DETAILS</h3>
<meta charset="utf-8">Please scroll down below the product description to read our list of Frequently Asked Questions.
 Instructor: The School of Making Team Enjoy a private group workshop experience with friends, family, and The School of Making Team. The Private Studio Workshop offers a five-day learning experience for groups of 12. Customize your workshop to explore hand-sewing, patternmaking, stenciling, design, and more—at any skill level. Monday – Friday <a href="https://alabamachanin.com/contact" target="_blank">Reach out</a> for date availability Alabama Chanin @ The Factory 462 Lane Drive Florence, AL 35630 <meta charset="utf-8">Kindly note: Workshops are non-refundable. For more information, please <a href="https://alabamachanin.com/contact" data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://alabamachanin.com/contact">contact us</a>.
 *Excluded from all sales and promotions.
<h3>WHAT'S INCLUDED</h3>
 WORKSHOP GUESTS RECEIVE: • One custom kit of any style, stencil, and technique from The School of Making • Light breakfast, lunch, and afternoon coffee • One organic cotton tote and notebook from Alabama Chanin • Assistance in planning your trip and custom workshop itinerary STUDIO ACCESS: • Cutting, stenciling, and design departments • All tools needed along the way • Garment samples in a full range of sizes to try on • An expansive fabric library with hundreds of swatches featuring various techniques • One-on-one instruction time with the team • Assistance with fitting and alterations

The School of Making Notions - Beads, Embroidery Floss, and Needles

The School of Making A Line Dress DIY Kit in Peacock, Navy, and White

The School of Making The Geometry of Hand Sewing Book by Natalie Chanin

Various notions and tools for sewing. Double

The Shoals: Private Studio Workshop @ The Factory | Choose Your Date

Details The annual Project Threadways Symposium brings together scholars, activists, makers, and thinkers to present research, share stories, and encourage dialogue about history, community, and power—all through the lens of fashion and textiles. Presentations, dinners, exhibitions, and workshops create a multi-day experience in Florence, Alabama, centered on material culture and making. Virtual registration is also available. Recorded sessions from past symposia may be accessed by purchasing a virtual ticket. Please contact think@projectthreadways.org with questions. The 2024 Project Threadways Symposium was made possible with support from the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area and Bank Independent. Schedule All events are held at The Factory at 462 Lane Drive in Florence, Alabama, unless otherwise specified. Friday, April 199 a.m. Registration and breakfast from All the Best9:30 a.m. Welcome from Natalie Chanin10:15 a.m. Diana N’Diaye on Water, Senegal, and the U.S.11:15 a.m. Zero Waste Demo — finger knitting11:45 a.m. Cassidy Zachary + April Callahan on Why We Study the History of Fashion (Zoom)12:30 p.m. Lunch from Simply Baked1:30 p.m. Zero Waste Demo — knotted necklaces2:00 p.m. Kim Kelly + JoeAnn Pettway West on Gee’s Bend Then and Now2:45 p.m. Carla Fernández on Indigenous Techniques and Contemporary Craft3:30 p.m. Panel moderated by Ansley Quiros4 p.m. Break — Explore the Shoals5:30 p.m. Anita Flanagan on Cultural Clothing for the Modern Native American, held at the Southall-Moore House, 217 E. Tuscaloosa Street (in-person only)Saturday, April 209 a.m. Breakfast from All the Best9:30 a.m. Zero Waste Workshop with Natalie Chanin (in-person only)11:30 a.m. Li Edelkoort on a Decade of the Anti_Fashion Manifesto12:00 p.m. Lunch from Rivertown Coffee Co.1 p.m. Rebecca Burgess on Fibershed1:45 p.m. Tour of The Factory2:15 p.m. Panel moderated by Ansley Quiros2:45 p.m. Project Threadways Looks Back and Forward3:30 p.m. Closing RemarksPlease contact think@projectthreadways.org with questions. *Excluded from all sales and promotions.

<h3>Details</h3>
<div data-mce-fragment="1">The annual Project Threadways Symposium brings together scholars, activists, makers, and thinkers to present research, share stories, and encourage dialogue about history, community, and power—all through the lens of fashion and textiles. Presentations, dinners, exhibitions, and workshops create a multi-day experience in Florence, Alabama, centered on material culture and making. Virtual registration is also available. Recorded sessions from past symposia may be accessed by purchasing a virtual ticket. 
</div>
Please contact <a href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org" rel="noopener" target="_blank" data-mce-href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org">think@projectthreadways.org</a> with questions. 
The 2024 Project Threadways Symposium was made possible with support from the Muscle Shoals National Heritage Area and Bank Independent.   
<h3>Schedule</h3>
All events are held at The Factory at 462 Lane Drive in Florence, Alabama, unless otherwise specified.
 Friday, April 19 9 a.m. Registration and breakfast from All the Best 9:30 a.m. Welcome from Natalie Chanin 10:15 a.m. Diana N’Diaye on Water, Senegal, and the U.S. 11:15 a.m. Zero Waste Demo — finger knitting 11:45 a.m. Cassidy Zachary + April Callahan on Why We Study the History of Fashion (Zoom) 12:30 p.m. Lunch from Simply Baked 1:30 p.m. Zero Waste Demo — knotted necklaces 2:00 p.m. Kim Kelly + JoeAnn Pettway West on Gee’s Bend Then and Now 2:45 p.m. Carla Fernández on Indigenous Techniques and Contemporary Craft 3:30 p.m. Panel moderated by Ansley Quiros 4 p.m. Break — Explore the Shoals 5:30 p.m. Anita Flanagan on Cultural Clothing for the Modern Native American, held at the Southall-Moore House, 217 E. Tuscaloosa Street <meta charset="utf-8">(in-person only) Saturday, April 20 9 a.m. Breakfast from All the Best 9:30 a.m. Zero Waste Workshop with Natalie Chanin <meta charset="utf-8">(in-person only) 11:30 a.m. Li Edelkoort on a Decade of the Anti_Fashion Manifesto 12:00 p.m. Lunch from Rivertown Coffee Co. 1 p.m. Rebecca Burgess on Fibershed 1:45 p.m. Tour of The Factory 2:15 p.m. Panel moderated by Ansley Quiros 2:45 p.m. Project Threadways Looks Back and Forward 3:30 p.m. Closing Remarks Please contact <a rel="noopener" href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org" target="_blank" data-mce-href="mailto:think@projectthreadways.org">think@projectthreadways.org</a> with questions. 
*Excluded from all sales and promotions.
<div data-mce-fragment="1"> </div>

Image of cotton being spun into yarn with Project Threadways logo.

Black and white image of hands sewing a garment.

Model styled in the Kelly Cardigan, Ravenna Tunic, and Bias Chevron Tunic in Navy Figured and Deep Indigo

Image of cotton being spun into yarn with Project Threadways logo. double

Project Threadways 2024 Symposium | Virtual Download

Virtual Symposium - Access to Recording

Give the gift of learning, fellowship, and hand-craft with a one-year subscription to The School of Making Club. The new community hub serves as the place for our design archives, instructions, searchable Journal selections, and so much more. For the first time in over ten years, patterns, stencils, designs, techniques, and maker resources are available in one place. Upon purchase, you will receive an email with instructions for setting up the recipient’s account, along with a PDF file that you may print, wrap, and gift. Please email studio@projectthreadways.org with questions. Please note: If you would like to sign up for yourself, please visit The School of Making Club on Mighty Networks to create your account. Unlimited Subscriptions Include:• Our new members-only community feed: Engage with other members of The Club. • Maker Live Streaming Sessions: Participate in our interactive Q+A sessions with The School of Making Team. • The Resource Library: Find instructions for various sewing techniques and instructions for garment construction as well as information about sizing, garment styles, and more.• The Swatch Library: Browse an ongoing, decade-long collection of fabric swatches, with details about techniques and design choices.• Access to Inspiration, Design, and Swatch of the Month Archive Posts from the Journal: Archived and new posts from The School of Making Journal now have a new, searchable home. • The Color Vote: Take part in the periodical Color Vote and help our team plan upcoming programming by voting for your favorite retired (or new) color to be included in The School of Making.• Virtual Sewing Hours Monthly: Join The School of Making team as well as other Club members in virtual live sewing hours. • Unlimited Stencil Artwork Downloads: Gain access to our full Stencil Artwork library and take advantage of unlimited PDF downloads. • Unlimited Garment Pattern Downloads: Unlock our complete Garment Pattern catalog to find the perfect projects for your wardrobe.

Give the gift of learning, fellowship, and hand-craft with a one-year subscription to The School of Making Club. The new community hub serves as the place for our design archives, instructions, searchable Journal selections, and so much more. For the first time in over ten years, patterns, stencils, designs, techniques, and maker resources are available in one place.
<meta charset="utf-8">Upon purchase, you will receive an email with instructions for setting up the recipient’s account, along with a PDF file that you may print, wrap, and gift. Please email <a rel="noopener" href="mailto:studio@projectthreadways.org" target="_blank">studio@projectthreadways.org</a> with questions. 
Please note: If you would like to sign up for yourself, please visit <a href="https://the-school-of-making.mn.co/landing" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The School of Making Club on Mighty Networks</a> to create your account. 
Unlimited Subscriptions Include: • Our new members-only community feed: Engage with other members of The Club.  • Maker Live Streaming Sessions: Participate in our interactive Q+A sessions with The School of Making Team.  • The Resource Library: Find instructions for various sewing techniques and instructions for garment construction as well as information about sizing, garment styles, and more. • The Swatch Library: Browse an ongoing, decade-long collection of fabric swatches, with details about techniques and design choices. • Access to Inspiration, Design, and Swatch of the Month Archive Posts from the Journal: Archived and new posts from The School of Making Journal now have a new, searchable home.  • The Color Vote: Take part in the periodical Color Vote and help our team plan upcoming programming by voting for your favorite retired (or new) color to be included in The School of Making. • Virtual Sewing Hours Monthly: Join The School of Making team as well as other Club members in virtual live sewing hours.  • Unlimited Stencil Artwork Downloads: Gain access to our full Stencil Artwork library and take advantage of unlimited PDF downloads.  • Unlimited Garment Pattern Downloads: Unlock our complete Garment Pattern catalog to find the perfect projects for your wardrobe.

Fabric Swatch featuring the Fern and Tony stencils, with reverse appliqué and satin stitch embroidery.

An artisan creating a sewing pattern. double

The School of Making Club: One-Year Unlimited Membership

Details Please click here to get tickets. Join Natalie and The School of Making team in Nashville, Tennessee, for Nash Yarn Fest 2025. Visit our booth during the main event on Saturday to shop fabric, notions, and kits, and stick around to watch live hand-sewing demos. Natalie is honored to be a guest speaker at the event; more details coming soon. Saturday, March 15th10:00 am - 5:00 pm@ The Fairgrounds Nashville625 Smith Ave.Nashville, TN 37203Admission: $25 Also happening:Opening Night PartyFriday, March 146:00 - 9:00 pmAdmission: $75 More about Nash Yarn Fest:Spend time with the 80+ vendors who have come from 25 states, Canada, and the UK. We’ll have talks, demos, meetups all day long. Food trucks (with food for purchase), furry visitors from local farms, the company of fellow makers. Expect all sorts of fun on the main stage—we’ll have plenty of seats and tables for relaxing and visiting with each other.

<h3>Details</h3>
<a href="https://www.nashyarnfest.com/products/nash-yarn-fest-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Please click here to get tickets</a>.
Join Natalie and The School of Making team in Nashville, Tennessee, for Nash Yarn Fest 2025. Visit our booth during the main event on Saturday to shop fabric, notions, and kits, and stick around to watch live hand-sewing demos.
Natalie is honored to be a guest speaker at the event; more details coming soon.
Saturday, March 15th 10:00 am - 5:00 pm @ The Fairgrounds Nashville 625 Smith Ave. Nashville, TN 37203 Admission: $25
Also happening: Opening Night Party Friday, March 14 6:00 - 9:00 pm Admission: $75
More about Nash Yarn Fest: Spend time with the 80+ vendors who have come from 25 states, Canada, and the UK. We’ll have talks, demos, meetups all day long. Food trucks (with food for purchase), furry visitors from local farms, the company of fellow makers. Expect all sorts of fun on the main stage—we’ll have plenty of seats and tables for relaxing and visiting with each other.

The Nash Yarn Fest logo with festival dates.

Nashville: Nash Yarn Fest | March 15, 2025

Allow your loved one to choose their perfect gift with The School of Making + Alabama Chanin Gift Certificate. Select the amount for online redemption, and choose between physical or digital/printable PDF. PHYSICAL: Printed on recycled cotton paper and enclosed in a reusable sleeve repurposed from our organic canvas scraps. If you are having this mailed to a friend or loved one, please send an email to orders@projectthreadways.org referencing your order number, with the recipient's name, mailing address, and a gift message (if you would like one to be included). Ships in 1-3 business days. Physical gift certificates ordered on Friday after 4:00pm CST, on Saturday, or on Sunday will not be sent out until the following Monday when the team is back in the office. DIGITAL/PRINTABLE PDF: You will receive a PDF file that you can print, fill out, and gift to the recipient. The 8.5 x 11” PDF is designed to be printed at home on your choice of paper. Our team will send a unique gift code in a separate email that can be sent directly to the recipient or added to the printable PDF. The code for digital/printable gift certificates will be sent within 6 hours when purchased during normal business hours (8:00am - 5:00pm CST). Please give us a call at 256-760-1090 or send an email to orders@projectthreadways.org with any questions, special instructions, custom amounts, or for assistance with placing an order. Gift certificates are non-refundable.

Allow your loved one to choose their perfect gift with The School of Making + Alabama Chanin Gift Certificate. Select the amount for online redemption, and choose between physical or digital/printable PDF. 
PHYSICAL: Printed on recycled cotton paper and <meta charset="utf-8">enclosed in a reusable sleeve repurposed from our organic canvas scraps.  If you are having this mailed to a friend or loved one, please send an email to <a href="mailto:orders@projectthreadways.org" rel="noopener" target="_blank">orders@projectthreadways.org</a> referencing your order number, with the recipient's name, mailing address, and a gift message (if you would like one to be included). <meta charset="utf-8">Ships in 1-3 business days. Physical gift certificates ordered on Friday after 4:00pm CST, on Saturday, or on Sunday will not be sent out until the following Monday when the team is back in the office. 
DIGITAL/PRINTABLE PDF: You will receive a PDF file that you can print, fill out, and gift to the recipient. The 8.5 x 11” PDF is designed to be printed at home on your choice of paper. Our team will send a unique gift code in a separate email that can be sent directly to the recipient or added to the printable PDF. <meta charset="utf-8">The code for digital/printable gift certificates will be sent within 6 hours when purchased during normal business hours (8:00am - 5:00pm CST). 
Please give us a call at 256-760-1090 or send an email to <a rel="noopener" href="mailto:orders@projectthreadways.org" target="_blank">orders@projectthreadways.org</a> with any questions, special instructions, custom amounts, or for assistance with placing an order.
Gift certificates are non-refundable.

A stitched an embossed gift card in a canvas card holder.

alabama chanin gift certificate with handwritten note

double image of The School of Making Gift Certificate Hand-Stitched Gift Card with Embossed Logo

Workshops and Events:
Join the Conversation

Project Threadways 2025 Symposium | April 25-26, 2025

Project Threadways Symposium Reception | April 24, 2025

Los Poblanos Creative Retreat | July 14-17, 2025

The Shoals: Fabric Design and Painting @ The Factory | August 20-22, 2025

The Shoals: Three-Day Workshop @ The Factory | November 5-7, 2025

The Shoals: Private Studio Workshop @ The Factory | Choose Your Date

Project Threadways 2024 Symposium | Virtual Download

The School of Making Club: One-Year Unlimited Membership

Nashville: Nash Yarn Fest | March 15, 2025

The Gift of Making

Alabama Chanin The School of Making - Workshops and Events Page

Workshops and Events:Join the Conversation

Project Threadways 2025 Symposium | April 25-26, 2025

Project Threadways Symposium Reception | April 24, 2025

Los Poblanos Creative Retreat | July 14-17, 2025

The Shoals: Fabric Design and Painting @ The Factory | August 20-22, 2025

The Shoals: Three-Day Workshop @ The Factory | November 5-7, 2025

The Shoals: Private Studio Workshop @ The Factory | Choose Your Date

Project Threadways 2024 Symposium | Virtual Download

The School of Making Club: One-Year Unlimited Membership

Nashville: Nash Yarn Fest | March 15, 2025

The Gift of Making

Workshops and Events:
Join the Conversation