Saturday, but no-one's really sure anymore

Starting the workshop on Wednesday has most of us wondering what day it is, and I'm probably the worst, after being on no schedule to speak of for the previous two weeks. Of course, I started with another visit to my favourite lichen trees....

Today was our half day, so we finished off the two samples started yesterday before getting on with whatever we wanted. We soaked the metal/fabric with tissue paper stitched on, scrubbed it back, and coloured it - I also did one which was just paper. I really like the organic, distressed look.

I also really liked the lutrador, burnt back with the heat gun after being stitched onto metal cloth.

This was metal cloth stitched onto champagne bottle foil over another fabric. It becomes a richly textured and shapeable material.

This is flame painted metal cloth on top, over silk organza, small strips of polyester organza, foil paper, and silk. I sewed, cut back and tore back layers, and sewed some more.

In the afternoon I had plans to train, but the gym wasn't staffed, so I couldn't get in. So I spent some time wandering the streets before heading to the Art Gallery, where I saw a couple of pieces which struck me, as well as lots of Australian classics.

Love the houses here with all their iron lace

The work of Tim McMonagle

Stephen Davidson

The free afternoon went quickly and by the time I had returned, put on a wash and had an early shower, it was time for a drink with the girls in the common room. Then over to dinner and tutor talks - I particularly enjoyed Julia Wright's tonight, as well as Kate Thompson's.

As usual, I feel like I need a few hours to myself, which I suppose what the free afternoon is supposed to be about - but we all try and cram so much into it, or simply try to catch up.