Program Overview

Introduction to the Fibers and Fabrics Program

The Fibers and Fabrics program at Western Washington University's Department of Art + Art History offers a comprehensive education in the technical and conceptual aspects of fibers and fabrics. The program provides students with a solid foundation in the technical explorations of dye application, fabric manipulation, and structural processes of textile production.

Course Offerings

The program includes a range of courses that cater to different interests and skill levels. Some of the courses offered include:

• ART 360 Fibers and Fabrics I: Introduction to technical explorations of dye application, fabric manipulation, and structural process of textile production.
• ART 361 Surface Design: Techniques and concepts of cloth alteration with an emphasis on surface and design.
• ART 362 Papermaking and Mixed Media: Exploration of papermaking and mixed media techniques.
• ART 363 3-Dimensional Forms in Fiber: Focuses on three-dimensional off-loom processes in fiber and material studies.
• ART 367 Advanced Weaving: Advanced techniques in weaving.
• ART 460 Advanced Fibers/Fabrics: Advanced problems in fiber/fabrics study, with an emphasis on self-directed project development and contemporary issues in fibers/fabrics.

Course Descriptions

ART 360 Fibers and Fabrics I

Introduction to technical explorations of dye application, fabric manipulation, and structural process of textile production. Technical information accompanied by presentations of contemporary fiber history and issues. Specifics include: tie dyeing, Katazome (paste resist stencil dyeing), and loom weaving. All explorations to focus on the inherent expressive/conceptual qualities of traditional fiber media and processes and their mixed media counterparts. Lecture/lab.

ART 361 Surface Design

Techniques and concepts of cloth alteration with an emphasis on surface and design. Specifics include: heat transfer dye on polyester fabric, advanced dyeing techniques on silk and screen-printing. Through traditional and contemporary fiber investigations, students will develop thematic and conceptual ideas while learning new skills and processes. Lecture/lab. Repeatable to a maximum of 15 credits, including original course.

ART 363 3-Dimensional Forms in Fiber

Focuses on three-dimensional off-loom processes in fiber and material studies. Historical and contemporary applications of sandal weaving, basket making, felt making, lace making, and soft sculpture including wearable art will be explored. Integration between 2D and 3D forms will be conceptually presented through individual skills and creative ideas. Lecture/lab. Repeatable to a maximum of 15 credits, including original course.

ART 460 Advanced Fibers/Fabrics

Advanced problems in fiber/fabrics study. Emphasis on self-directed project development and contemporary issues in fibers/fabrics. Lecture/lab.