Fiber arts without a washer and dryer is like mixing up the cake batter and not being able to bake it.
Columbia High School is one of 12 NJ public schools designated as a "School of the Arts".
I am continually searching out grants to enhance my classroom and bring it into a technologically appropriate state. I teach 9-12 graders Fiber Arts techniques. Some are serious art students, some are students that have great curiosity, and some are looking to foe fill a requirement. My classes are mixed ability, race and gender. For some, high school will be their last formal education, for others this course may wet their appetite and propel them into higher education. I support an active environment of exploration and inquiry.
My Project
The students explore weaving and textile surface design. Having a washer and Dryer will enable them to calculate waste in their materials consumption. They will be able to make inquiries about dyeing processes and the impact it has on the environment. Students will better understand what the limitations and abilities of synthetic and natural fibers are. This will enhance their opportunity to realizes new techniques in the production of textiles it will impact their choices for production.
Supporting this project will provide the opportunity for the students to complete the textile process.
They will in essence be able to finally "bake their cake". They are wonderful weavers but do not understand shrinkage rates and cannot calculate them into their projects. I can tell them numbers but they are not really understanding the concept. I can show them videos about textile processes. This is part of learning, the actual handling and processing seals the deal for them.
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