Imaginary Places Retreat – August 2026 – FRANCE (USD 850 ($250 deposit + $600 due May 2026))

$250.00

Imaginary Places: Exploring Colour Theory and Complex Piecing Techniques to Design Your Own Quilts with Carolina Oneto

Join textile artist and instructor Carolina Oneto in South West France for a week of playful experimentation combining design, piercing techniques and colour theory.

Details:

  • Dates: from 22 August 2026 to 29 August 2026

  • 25 hours of tuition per week

  • Medium: Quilting
  • Level: Beginner/Intermediate
  • Language: English – Spanish
  • Full Board Accommodation: 1595€ to 2895€ per week based on room choice & single or shared occupancy + tuition fee
  • Tutor’s Fee: USD 850 ($250 deposit + $600 due May 2026)
  • Just 15 spots for the workshop.

 

  • REGISTER FIRST with Clos Mirabel for Full Board Accommodation: a 350€ non-refundable deposit is due to reserve your room, with balance due eight weeks before the course starts. Cost of Full Board Accommodation varies (1595€ to 2695€) according to room choice & single or shared occupancy. Learn more here.
  • Return to this page and pay the $250 USD non-refundable tuition deposit to reserve your spot in the workshop.
  • Tuition balance of $600 USD will be billed after March 1 and is due by May 1, 2026

 

I have adopted the same refund Terms & Conditions as Clos Mirabel. Please read before paying the tuition deposit.

  • Once your tuition deposit is paid I will send you an email with the confirmation and the supply list for the retreat.
  • Non-participating guests: Clos Mirabel is more than happy to welcome accompanying partners, family or friends. There are plenty of activities to experience around Clos Mirabel, that will make your holiday unforgettable. They do not pay my tuition fee, but will need to register with Clos Mirabel. Click here for more information.
  • IMPORTANT: Due to the financial obligations and planning, please note there will be no refunds. You are highly advised to get travel insurance. Should something arise and you are not able to attend, you will only receive a refund if someone is able to take your place. The deposit is non-refundable.
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION:

    Regarding flights from the US, it will be easiest to fly with Air France via Paris Charles de Gaulle. This is because you only need to register your luggage once and it will be transferred to your next flight which will land in Pau. From Pau Airport to Clos Mirabel, the drive is approximately 30 minutes.

  • Supplies provided by Clos Mirabel:

    • Large cutting mat and ironing stations

    • Clos Mirabel will provide sewing machines for all participants who would prefer not to transport their own. There is no additional charge for this service.

    • More about our Art Studio

In stock

Category:

Description

About this course:

Immerse yourself in a transformative week long workshop entitled “Imaginary Places: Exploring Colour Theory and Complex Piecing Techniques to Design Your Own Quilts.”

Throughout the initial two days, participants will embark on an in-depth exploration of colour theory, understanding how to harness colour values to evoke distinct moods within landscape designs, and uncover the powerful use of transparency effects in quilt creations.

Attendees will delve into mastering a diverse array of complex piecing techniques, including working with curves, integrating inset round shapes, and utilizing the innovative freezer paper method for construction. At the second half of day two, participants will find themselves equipped with a wealth of knowledge and new skills, ready to take on the creative challenge of designing their own unique Imaginary place quilt. Drawing on the invaluable insights gained, they will embark on this exciting phase, shaping and visualising their artistic vision into a tangible quilt design.

Days three, four and five will see participants immersing themselves in the process of breathing life into their designs. Here, they will carefully consider and select colours, shapes, and piecing techniques that fully capture the essence of their creative expression. With these foundational elements in place, participants will then set to work, bringing their designs into fruition through the art of sewing, witnessing the gradual emergence of their own design.

This immersive, hands-on workshop serves as a platform for participants to explore, experiment, and ultimately realise their creative potential, empowering them to craft breathtaking quilts that serve as a tangible reflection of their individual style and artistic sensibilities. The workshop not only equips participants with technical expertise but also invites them to tap into their unique creative voices, utilising their skills to transform imagination into stunning visual representations by the workshop’s conclusion.

Quilting Workshop Programme:

Saturday
4.00 – Check-in time from 4pm onwards. Guests arrive, settle in and explore Clos Mirabel.
6.00 – Welcome drinks and dinner

Sunday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 12.00 Workshop on Colour Theory
– Understanding colour values
– Using colours to evoke moods
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Exploring Transparency Effects in Quilts
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Monday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 12.00 Techniques Overview
– Working with curves
– Integrating inset round shapes
– Freezer paper method
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Mastering Complex Piecing Techniques (Hands-on)
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Tuesday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 12.00 Start Designing Your Imaginary Place Quilt
– Use insights and skills learned
– Sketch and visualise your design
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Selecting Colours and Fabrics
– Choose fabrics that reflect your artistic vision
Preparation for Piecing
– Organising and cutting fabrics
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Wednesday – day off
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
We suggest wine tasting in a local vineyard, explore Pau or beyond
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Thursday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 12.00 Begin the Piecing Process
– Start sewing your design
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Mirabel
2.00 – 5.00 Continue Piecing and Adjusting Design
Troubleshooting and Technical Guidance
6.00 – Aperitifs before 4-course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Friday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet breakfast of local and regional produce
10.00 – 12.00 Completing the Piecing
1.00 – 2.00 Lunch at Clos Maribel
2.00 – 5.00 Adding Finishing Touches
6.00 – Evening exhibition in the art studio
6.30 – Aperitifs before 4 course dinner in the Manor House or on the terrace

Saturday
8.30 – 9.30 Buffet Breakfast and departure (Check-out 11am)

The Art Studio, offers a spacious open plan layout of 75 m2. It is available at all times during your stay. Click here for more information.

Non-participating guests: we are more than happy to welcome non-workshop guests, accompanying partners, family or friends. There are plenty of activities to experience around Clos Mirabel, that will make your holiday unforgettable Click here for more information.

Helpful Clos Mirabel Links: