Mindful Stitching with Judy Coates Perez
Mon, Jan 11, 2027 – Thu, Jan 14, 2027
A four-day creative retreat exploring stitch, mark-making, and the meditative language of cloth
About the Instructor
Judy Coates Perez is an internationally recognized mixed-media textile artist, instructor, and author known for her richly layered art quilts and expressive stitched surfaces. Her work combines paint, cloth, embroidery, and storytelling elements into visually compelling contemporary textile art.
Her workshops encourage experimentation, personal expression, and thoughtful creative exploration while helping students build confidence in their artistic voice.
More than simply a creative workshop, this immersive retreat is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, your creativity, and the quiet rhythm of hand stitching.
Join internationally recognized mixed-media textile artist Judy Coates Perez for four inspiring days exploring mindful stitching as both artistic practice and active meditation. Through slow stitch, layered cloth, mark-making, and thoughtful composition, participants will discover how simple handwork can become a calming and deeply personal creative process.
Whether you are a seasoned stitcher or a beginner, Judy’s supportive and judgment-free approach encourages experimentation, reflection, and artistic freedom. Working with linen, thread, texture, and intuitive design, you’ll create a beautiful hand-stitched textile piece while developing a deeper connection to your own creative voice.
This retreat invites you to slow down, observe closely, and embrace the meditative qualities of making by hand.
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Through hands-on demonstrations, guided exercises, and an engaging visual presentation, Judy will share her unique approach to slow stitching as a form of active meditation.
Participants will explore:
• Simple hand stitching techniques, including the running stitch and ways to build intricate surfaces through repetition
• Working with color, texture, and composition to create visually compelling textile pieces
• Discovering creative inspiration from everyday surroundings, memories, and personal symbolism
• Developing confidence in intuitive and expressive mark-making
• Layering cloth, stitch, and mixed-media elements into richly textured compositions
• Exploring mindfulness and presence through repetitive handwork and creative focus
• Creating a finished stitched linen artwork that reflects personal exploration and artistic freedom
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Day 1 – Foundations & Inspiration
Explore Judy’s creative process while experimenting with mark-making, layering, and compositional ideas. Begin preparing textile surfaces for stitching and embellishment.
Days 2–3 – Stitch, Texture & Storytelling
Participants will explore:
Hand stitching and embroidery techniques
Layering cloth, paper, and painted surfaces
Creating texture through thread and stitch density
Developing intuitive compositions
Adding symbols, imagery, and personal elements
Working with color, contrast, and visual rhythm
Day 4 – Finishing & Reflection
Refine and complete textile works while discussing ways mindful stitching can continue as part of a personal creative practice.
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This workshop is ideal for:
Fiber artists and quilters
Surface designers and mixed-media artists
Art journalers and textile storytellers
Beginners interested in hand stitching
Artists seeking a slower, reflective creative practice
No advanced sewing skills are required.
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A detailed supply list will be provided prior to class.
Aya Fiber Studio offers an immersive small-group learning environment designed for fiber and mixed-media workshops, including spacious worktables, excellent lighting, and supportive instruction.
Students traveling from out of town can visit our Studio Information page for lodging, airport, and local recommendations.