About Us – Aya Fiber Studio
Historic Downtown Stuart Main Street
Workshop in progress
Lisa Binkley teaching a Surface Design Workshop
Fully Equipped Wet Studio fo Dyeing
Updated dye kitchen
Our fully equipped dye kitchen for fiberart workshops.
Studio Storefront
The welcoming storefront of our studio in Stuart, FL.
Student work areas with large tables and lighting
A Destination for Fiber Art, Creativity, and Connection
Welcome to Aya Fiber Studio, a one-of-a-kind destination for hands-on fiber art workshops in Stuart, Florida. Here, artists of all levels explore the timeless beauty of Japanese textiles, shibori, indigo dyeing, papermaking, surface design, and mixed-media techniques—all within a fully equipped studio overlooking Florida’s Treasure Coast.
Founded by Suzanne Connors, Aya Fiber Studio was born from a deep respect for craftsmanship, community, and the spirit of making. The name Aya (彩), meaning “design, color, and pattern,” reflects our belief that artistry flourishes where tradition and innovation meet.
Our Mission: Preserving Craft, Inspiring Creativity
At Aya Fiber Studio, our mission is simple: to provide a nurturing, professional environment where artists can learn, experiment, and connect. We invite nationally and internationally recognized instructors to teach intensive workshops that encourage exploration across traditional and contemporary textile practices.
Whether you’re a beginner discovering the magic of indigo for the first time or a seasoned artist seeking new surface-design methods, Aya Fiber Studio offers the space, tools, and guidance to elevate your creative journey.
Japanese Textiles, Shibori, and Indigo Dyeing
The heart of our program beats with Japanese textile traditions—ancient techniques passed down through generations. Students immerse themselves in shibori, katazome, rozome, and the meditative rhythm of indigo dyeing, learning how simple cloth becomes art through time-honored resist methods.
Workshops are led by masters of their craft who bring decades of experience in dye chemistry, design, and aesthetics. You’ll leave not only with beautiful fabrics but also with a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage that inspires them.
Surface Design, Papermaking, and Mixed Media
Aya Fiber Studio extends far beyond dye vats and indigo. Our curriculum includes surface-design, eco-printing, papermaking, book arts, encaustic, and mixed-media collage. These workshops celebrate the versatility of fiber as a medium for storytelling, sustainability, and personal expression.
Students are encouraged to push creative boundaries—combining natural dyes with printmaking, hand-stitching, or collage—to create contemporary works infused with history and heart.
A Fully Equipped Studio on Florida’s Treasure Coast
Our Stuart, FL studio is designed for comfort and creative flow.
Features include:
Professional print tables and sewing stations
A complete wet dye kitchen with stainless-steel vats and indigo pots
Outdoor areas for rinsing, steaming, and drying
Natural light, ample workspace, and climate control
Access to specialty supplies imported from Japan
The studio is located just minutes from the beaches of the Treasure Coast and close to airports in West Palm Beach, Vero Beach, and Fort Lauderdale—making travel simple for our national and international guests.
A Legacy of Learning and Community
Since its founding, Aya Fiber Studio has become a hub for the fiber-arts community—a place where collaboration, mentorship, and friendship flourish. Our workshops have hosted hundreds of artists from across the country and abroad, each leaving inspired and renewed.
We believe in nurturing artistry through connection—between teacher and student, tradition and innovation, process and purpose. Aya Fiber Studio continues to evolve as a creative home for all who share a love of fiber and the handmade.
Plan Your Visit or Join a Workshop
Explore our upcoming workshops and retreats to find your next creative adventure.
Whether you’re traveling for a masterclass, joining open studio time, or attending a special event, we’ll help you make the most of your experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of fiber art workshops do you offer?
Aya Fiber Studio offers workshops in Japanese textiles, shibori, indigo dyeing, papermaking, surface design, and mixed media.
Do I need experience to participate?
No experience is necessary. Our small class sizes ensure individual guidance for both beginners and advanced artists.
Where is the studio located?
Aya Fiber Studio is at 170 NE Dixie Highway in Stuart, Florida, near some of the most beautiful beaches on the Treasure Coast.
What makes Aya Fiber Studio unique?
Our studio combines world-class instruction, a fully equipped workspace, and the peaceful surroundings of coastal Florida—a perfect setting for artistic renewal.
How do I register?
Registration is online through our secure booking system. Visit ayafiberstudio.com/workshops to reserve your spot.
Join Our Creative Community
Sign up for our newsletter to receive workshop updates, travel tips, and fiber-art resources.
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✨ Let’s create together.
More Ways to Create at Aya Fiber Studio
At Aya Fiber Studio, creativity doesn’t stop when workshops end. Whether you’re returning to finish a project, experimenting with a new dye technique, or seeking personalized instruction, our studio offers flexible ways to keep your fiber-art journey flowing.
Open Studio Time
Our Open Studio Time sessions welcome artists who want independent access to Aya’s professional facilities — including our wet dye kitchen, large print tables, and sewing areas.
Work at your own pace surrounded by like-minded makers, exchange ideas, and continue exploring shibori, indigo dyeing, surface design, or mixed-media projects.
We provide a supportive atmosphere where experimentation is encouraged and creativity thrives.
Private Classes & Small Group Sessions
Looking for focused, individualized instruction?
Schedule a Private Class with Suzanne Connors — ideal for artists wanting in-depth guidance in Japanese shibori, indigo vat management, eco-printing, or surface-design techniques.
Private sessions are customized to your interests and skill level, whether you’re refining a professional portfolio or just beginning your journey into fiber art.
Invite a friend or colleague to create together — small group options are also available.