Creating together in community is a powerful tool to build lasting bonds that break down barriers and foster innovation. Thriving communities know that cohesion is vital to creating a common vision. And when cohesion weakens, the arts can bring people together. 

The Community Ties that Bind project brings a hands-on, collaborative community art project to schools, employee enrichment programs, retirement centers, churches, clubs, non-profit groups and many other communities. In a 90-minute workshop, fiber artist, singer/songwriter and inspirational speaker Bev Barnett guides participants through a powerful, engaging process of letting go of the past and affirming a positive path for the future. 

During the workshop, participants tear strips of colorful fabric, symbolically releasing thoughts and patterns that no longer serve their best interests. Then after a brief meditation instruction, participants spend time in silence to choose affirmative words or phrases to guide the forward motion they desire for their lives.

As participants tie ordinary overhand knots into the colorful strands of fabric they've torn, they silently repeat their affirmations, symbolically anchoring them into the strips of fabric. 

The goal is to bring your community together to support each other's hopes, dreams and aspirations for a more vibrant and colorful life.

What skills are required?

Participants just need to know how to tie a simple overhand knot. No sewing or previous fiber arts experience is required. 

Where does the fabric come from? ​

Textile waste is a significant issue for the environment. The Ties that Bind project strives to use 100% upcycled fabric. Sources in the Sacramento area include Broad Room Free Art Closet, Re-Create and the annual fabric remnants sale benefiting the American Sewing Guild's  Sacramento chapter. 

Is the program suitable for children? ​

The core program is designed for adults and older students (middle and high school). 

How many people can participate?

Programs can be customized for groups of 10 to 25.

How large will the fiber sculpture be?

​The final size depends on the number of participants and requirements of the facility where it will hang.

How long will it take to complete the final fiber sculpture?

The fiber wall sculpture is created by the community during the workshop, with Bev's guidance. Each fabric strand to be knotted is fixed with a 'loop' Velcro tab. Participants place their strands of knotted fabric onto a wooden substrate covered with the corresponding 'hook' Velcro. The wall sculpture is ready to hang when the workshop concludes.