Workshop

Day: Sunday, July 6th

Time: 1pm – 4pm

SoulStitching

$110 – Share the Abundance – Paying full price helps to subsidize and support those that may not have the means at this time.

$90- Essential – Paying this price is in line with my financial integrity. Please use coupon code SOUL20

$70 – Basic – Paying this price is what feels right for me and my financial situation. Please use coupon code SOUL40

Slow down. Breathe. Stitch.

In this sacred practice of slow stitching, we embrace a mindful, intuitive approach to hand sewing—one that values presence over perfection, process over product. Inspired by the rhythms of Japanese Sashiko, Indian Kantha, and the wisdom of generations before us, this workshop, taught by artist Sue Keown, is an invitation to pause, reflect, and create with intention.

Using treasured fabrics, threads, and found materials, we will explore stitching as a form of meditation, storytelling, and self-discovery. Each stitch becomes a prayer, a rhythm, a way to ground ourselves in the present moment. Through guided exercises, you’ll learn:

The rhythm of slow stitching—a peaceful, intuitive process.
Simple, soulful stitches to create texture and pattern.
Translating emotions, memories, and nature’s whispers into fabric and thread.
The art of mending—both textiles and the self.

This is not about technique or perfection. It is about letting go, trusting your hands, and embracing the imperfections that make each piece uniquely yours. As we stitch, we connect—not just with the fabric, but with ourselves, with each other, and with something greater.

No sewing experience is needed—just an open heart. All materials will be provided. Come as you are, and leave with something stitched from your soul.

Sue Keown is an artist, maker, and educator whose work is profoundly shaped by the intersection of nature, memory and the transformative power of the creative process. Drawing on a rich foundation in artistic practice and spiritual exploration, she weaves together found materials, storytelling, and personal reflection to craft meaningful, layered works. Through her workshops Sue cultivates a contemplative space where participants can slow down, tap into their imagination and embark on a journey of self-discovery, drawing inspiration from both the natural world and their own inner landscapes.  www.suekeown.org

Day: Sunday, July 13th

Time: 1pm – 4pm

Cost: $110/pp

Book Making

$110 – Share the Abundance – Paying full price helps to subsidize and support those that may not have the means at this time.

$90- Essential – Paying this price is in line with my financial integrity. Please use coupon code BOOK20

$70 – Basic – Paying this price is what feels right for me and my financial situation. Please use coupon code BOOK40

Unfold. Stitch. Gather. Create.

Join us at Mad Lavender Farm with artist Sue Keown for a magical day of bookmaking, where nature and creativity intertwine. In this hands-on workshop series, you’ll craft three unique handmade books—each inspired by the beauty and rhythm of the natural world.

Concertina Book: Unfolding Creativity
Paint, mark, and fold a single sheet of paper into a flowing journal or sketchbook. Like the petals of a flower or the waves of the wind, this accordion-style book mirrors the unfolding of time and creativity.

Pamphlet Book: Stitched & Bound with Intention
Sew and bind your own personal journal using simple stitching techniques. Inspired by the interwoven roots and branches of the farm, this book will become a sacred space for reflection, storytelling, and creative exploration.

Brown Paper Bag Book: Hidden Treasures & Secret Spaces
In this playful workshop, we’ll transform simple brown paper bags into pocket-filled books—perfect for holding found objects, sketches, and whispered thoughts. Like nature’s hidden wonders, these books will be filled with secret folds, tucked-away moments, and personal reflections.

Surrounded by lavender fields, buzzing bees, and the peaceful embrace of the land, you’ll leave with three beautiful handmade books—and a deeper connection to nature, creativity, and yourself.

Come with open hands, an open heart, and a willingness to explore. No prior bookmaking experience is needed—just the desire to create in a space of beauty and inspiration.

Sue Keown is an artist, maker and educator whose work is profoundly shaped by the intersection of nature, memory and the transformative power of the creative process. Drawing on a rich foundation in artistic practice and spiritual exploration, she weaves together found materials, storytelling and personal reflection to craft meaningful, layered works. Through her workshops Sue cultivates a contemplative space where participants can slow down, tap into their imagination and embark on a journey of self-discovery, drawing inspiration from both the natural world and their own inner landscapes.  www.suekeown.org

Date: Saturday, July 26th

Time: 1-3pm

Cost: $80/pp

CandleMaking

$80 – Share the Abundance – Paying full price helps to subsidize and support those that may not have the means at this time.

$70- Essential – Paying this price is in line with my financial integrity. Please use coupon code FLAME10

$60 – Basic – Paying this price is what feels right for me and my financial situation. Please use coupon code FLAME20

Since ancient times, candles have helped us light up the darkness—guiding travelers, marking sacred rituals, and providing warmth and comfort through long nights. Their quiet glow remains a symbol of hope, intention, and resilience—especially in these uncertain times. As many across the country and globe increasingly face the devastating impacts of climate-fueled natural disasters, when storms can knock out power for days at a time, that candles become a practical emergency preparedness resource.This hands-on workshop invites you to reconnect with the timeless art and valuable skill of candle making while cultivating a sense of calm, creativity, and mindfulness.

As we melt wax and blend fragrances, you’ll experience the meditative rhythm of the process—breathing in the therapeutic aromas of pure plant essential oils and engaging your senses through each step. Participants will learn how to melt and pour wax safely, blend scents mindfully, and adorn their candles with dried botanicals like lavender, rose, and chamomile for both beauty and benefit.

We’ll explore the properties of various wax types and how different botanicals and essential oils can enhance your candle’s aesthetic and aromatic qualities. A variety of vessels will be available, allowing you to personalize your creations to suit your space, style, or gifting ideas.

Whether you’re drawn to the craft for its practicality, artistry, or serenity, this workshop offers a welcoming space to slow down, engage your senses, and create something beautiful and useful with your own hands.

Each participant will leave with at least one hand-poured candle, a deeper understanding of the materials and methods, and a DIY kit to continue the candle making journey at home. 

Tara S Ocansey is a multimedia artist and maker, mom, gardener, environmental educator, nonprofit leader, and community advocate. Motivated by a desire to more deeply connect with self, family, community, and the natural world, her work explores the rhythms and patterns of our human and ecological systems, and seeks to cultivate connectedness through story and shared experience. As a collector of crafting endeavors, Tara began her candle making journey after coordinating a sustainability-focused vocational training program in Ghana that trained young un/under-employed women to make upcycled products out of discarded glass and plastic, with a skilled glassblower serving as one of the trainers. To support the trainees’ business, Tara imported the beautiful handblown recycled glass vessels into the US to sell at markets, and learned candle making to put their artistic works to practical use. Tara has been a purveyor of handmade candles, plant-based skincare, home decor items, and accessories at dozens of markets across NJ and NY.