Jill Atkins has a Bachelor of Science in elementary and special education. She also has attended the Sethna School of Fashion Design in San Francisco. Jill has studied as an apprentice under Kenneth D. King. In addition, Jill has attended the University of Kansas to study Japanese Rice Paste Resist. In 1992 she learned to draft patterns for garments, and she now creates original patterns for purses. In the last 14 years, she has concentrated in making elaborate hand beaded purses and art pieces.

Fabric Painting with Tule and Beading

In this workshop you will make a beautiful hand beaded pendant or garment accent piece. You will learn the art of beading with the use of tule to create a watercolor like effect on fabric to convey a picture, scene or idea.

Jill Atkins has extensive experience in several aspects of garment design, which include, a custom clothing line, exquisite beaded jewelry, pattern drafting, and sculptural purse design to name a few. Two Beaded Ornaments Jill designed are at the White House in the permanent collection. Her work has also been published in the Beadwork Magazine 2003 Aug./Sept. issue. She has also appeared on the “Do It Yourself” Network. Jill has had her work featured in many shows and galleries around the country, and her talent and teaching skills are sought after at the national level. We are fortunate to have her here in Reno to teach this workshop!!

In the artist’s words : I am compelled to do the work using my best craftsmanship. I endeavor to put a new twist on the ordinary so it can be seen in a new light.