Hey there Campers, my name is Ellen Mason, and I am the Artist in Residence at Searsport Shores from July 28 until August 3.

I am a sweater designer and a dyer, as well as a person who loves to sew. This year I have a personal project called Dress + Cardigan. You can read more about it here 

on my website. I am attempting to make 12 dresses and 12 cardigans (at least 6 to be patterns, too) before Groundhog Day, 2014. During my week at Searsport Shores I plan to dye and sew up a little storm – I am really looking forward to my time there.

I will be bringing an assortment of dye pots, dyes, woolens, and some patterns so that you may join in the fun. We will start with unwanted and unloved woolen sweaters (bring your own if you have them), cut and dye them, and then turn them into something new and fresh: A potholder to tuck in your camper, a pair of mittens to warm your fingers, flowers that will never die. I also encourage free form making: Stitch an octopus if you can!

At the same time, I have a plan to stitch up a cardigan during the week, assembled from bits and pieces of other sweaters. And if time allows, I’ll also sew a dress to go with it.

And let’s also make something we can leave at the campground to remember our time and leave our mark. A string of small festive flags would make a fun party decoration, yes?

See you soon!

Ellen Mason