Earth-Friendly Fiber Arts: Soap Dishes & Kumihimo Braiding with Ann Coddington

Earth-Friendly Fiber Arts: Soap Dishes & Kumihimo Braiding with Ann Coddington

Friday, June 5, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Single-session workshop | $75 per attendee

Explore the beauty of traditional fiber arts in this hands-on workshop led by internationally exhibiting artist and fiber expert Ann Coddington. Participants will learn two ancient craft techniques while creating functional and wearable handmade pieces inspired by centuries-old weaving traditions.

Held at Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery, this engaging workshop combines creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship as students create earth-friendly soap dishes using reed and learn the art of seven-strand kumihimo braiding. Whether used as sweatshirt cords, friendship bracelets, or lanyards, these colorful braided creations offer both beauty and practicality.

Ann Coddington is a nationally and internationally recognized fiber artist whose sculptural works utilize ancient techniques such as twining, looping, and netting. A Professor of Art and Graduate Coordinator Emerit from Eastern Illinois University, Ann has exhibited widely across the United States and abroad, with recent and upcoming exhibitions in Australia, London, Minneapolis, and beyond.

What You'll Do

In this fun-filled and hands-on workshop, participants will create woven soap dishes using a tension tray technique—an ancient basketry method for making flat woven forms. You’ll also learn the basics of seven-strand kumihimo braiding, a traditional Japanese braiding technique used to create decorative and functional cords.

Throughout the class, Ann will guide participants step-by-step through each process while sharing insights into the history and artistry behind these enduring fiber traditions.

You'll Learn:

• The basics of tension tray weaving techniques

• How to create earth-friendly woven soap dishes from reed

• Introduction to seven-strand kumihimo braiding

• Techniques for creating decorative cords, bracelets, and lanyards

• The history and artistic traditions behind ancient fiber arts

• Tips for continuing fiber craft techniques at home

What's Included

• All weaving and braiding materials

• Guided instruction from fiber artist Ann Coddington

• Hands-on experience with traditional fiber techniques

• Handmade soap dish and kumihimo braid to take home

Who This Workshop Is For

• Beginners interested in fiber arts and weaving

• Makers and crafters looking to explore traditional techniques

• Individuals interested in sustainable and handmade crafts

• Artists seeking inspiration from historical fiber methods

• Anyone who enjoys creative, hands-on experiences

About the Instructor

Ann Coddington utilizes a variety of ancient fiber techniques including twining, looping, and netting in her sculptural forms. Her work has been exhibited across the United States and internationally, including recent and upcoming exhibitions at Gallery Jennings Kerr (Australia), Fuller Craft Museum (Massachusetts), Textile Center (Minnesota), and Sarah Myerscough Gallery (London). She has taught workshops around the world, including at Penland School of Crafts, Fibre Arts Australia, and Fibre Arts New Zealand.

Ann received her MFA from the University of Illinois Sculpture Department and her BFA from Colorado State University’s Fibers Department. She is an active member of the National Basketry Organization.

Instagram: @abcoddington

Event Details

What to Bring: Comfortable clothing for crafting and creativity

Experience Level: Beginner-friendly; all levels welcome

Takeaway: Handmade woven soap dish and kumihimo braid creations

Location: Prairie Fruits Farm Classroom

4410 N Lincoln Ave, Champaign, IL

Parking: General parking is available in the gravel lot. ADA parking is located south of the farmhouse. The classroom is in the white building with black trim west of the gardens. Check in at the farm store at the front of the building.

Tickets: $75 per attendee

By attending, you consent to your image being used in Prairie Fruits Farm & Creamery marketing, social media, and publications. Please notify the photographer if you prefer not to be photographed.