Textile Classes
Enrichment
Looking to enhance your arts or afterschool programming? Brandau Arts textile classes are a great way to get students comfortable using their hands and connect with the world around them, while practicing craft traditions that have been passed down for centuries. Classes can usually be modified to fit your needs. Please reach out for availability and scheduling.
Clamp and fold resist technique with indigo
Students will learn about the local textile community, such as Alpacas at Windy Hill in Somis, CA
Indigo Deep Dive
In this class, students will explore the magic and science of the Indigo plant, which has been used as a dye for at least 6,000 years. Students will have the opportunity to dye fabric using a natural indigo vat. In the 5 week version, students will plant a seed, and experiment with many different dye techniques. We will discuss its history and the importance of using natural materials. This class requires the use of an outdoor space and access to water. It can be modified from a 1 time workshop up to a 5 week class.
2nd grade +
Fibers 101
In this class, students are introduced to the textile manufacturing process. We will learn and practice carding, spinning, and weaving as a group. Students have an opportunity to weave a weaving of their own. We will discuss the importance of using natural materials, and explore local resources and history.
4th grade +
Machine sewing 101
Learn how to use a sewing machine by making a lined apron. Students will have the option to personalize their apron with a pocket design of their choice. This class will start with sewing machine basics including the history of the sewing machine, threading, wind a bobbin, plus basic stitches and functions. Students will leave with a finished apron and confidence in using a sewing machine.
6th grade +
Upcycling
Students work with existing garments to design new, wearable works of art. Students explore personal style, express themselves, and learn technical skills. We will cover techniques in deconstruction/reconstruction, mending, draping, and discuss sustainability.
6th grade +
examples of high school student work
Weaving is a superpower
MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR
Carley Brandau
Multidisciplinary artist and educator
Hi! I am a working multidisciplinary artist with a Bachelor of Arts in Sculpture from the University of North Carolina Asheville, and a Masters of Design in Fashion, Body, and Garment from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. While in Chicago, I studied under celebrated artist Nick Cave, and received a fellowship for my graduate thesis work. I have exhibited artwork in Charlotte, NC, Asheville, NC, Chicago, IL, Moscow, Russia, and now Ojai, CA. I was born into a family of builders and creatives, and find comfort in using tools and making things with my hands. I started making sculptures for the body in 2008 when I discovered Bauhaus and Black Mountain College, and have continued down that rabbit hole ever since. Today, I continue to practice traditions such as weaving, sewing, and patternmaking with experimental approaches. I have experience working across many fields from custom garments and costumes, to fabrication, including projects for the Chicago Sinfonietta, Joffrey Ballet, mascot heads for professional sports teams, and more. I started teaching in 2020 when my commissions slowed during the pandemic, and found that I love sharing what I have practiced and studied, and helping people find the superpowers that come with making things for themselves. I have taught in different settings to many ages from 2nd grade, to middle school, high school, early college prep, college level, and adults. After moving to Ventura in early 2024, I find myself exploring the rich history of textile manufacturing in California that inextricably links to my home state of North Carolina. I value reusing materials, natural materials, experimental processes, collaboration, and preserving traditions of craft. To see examples of my work, visit my website: