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Natalie, Orthodox Pebbles creator and owner, recently hosted a creative workshop for children inspired by the rich visual tradition of Orthodox art (a few more details here once the workshop is done).
We began by exploring the history, purpose, and symbolism of Orthodox decorative motifs, discovering how these beautiful patterns have been used throughout different periods and forms of sacred art. Then it was time for the children to create!
Drawing inspiration from a collection of Orthodox designs spanning different time periods and art forms, the younger children designed their own mugs, while the older children created repeatable fabric patterns. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to discover the beauty and meaning behind these traditional motifs, and then make them their own through art and imagination.
After the workshop, we hope the children will look at their surroundings in church, as well as the objects they use in private worship, with a new appreciation.
It was a fantastic experience from start to finish—and certainly one worth repeating! If you are interested, kindly CONTACT US.
HOW TO SEAL THE MUG DESIGN
- Let the design dry completely. Allow the design to dry for at least four hours.
- Place the mug in a cold oven. Do not preheat the oven first. Place the mug on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack.
- Heat gradually. Set the oven to 350°F and allow the mug to heat up with the oven.
- Bake for 1 hour. Start timing once the oven reaches the desired temperature.
- Cool completely. Turn off the oven and leave the mug inside until it has cooled entirely. This gradual cooling helps reduce the risk of thermal shock and cracking.
- Hand-wash the mug. For the longest-lasting design, wash gently by hand and avoid soaking or using a dishwasher.
PUTTING THE PATTERNS TO USE
The fabric patterns designed by the children are available on Spoonflower, a custom fabric and home décor printing website. You can order fabric or a variety of home décor items featuring the children’s artwork.
Please see the instructions below for how to place an order. Kindly note that the fabric shown in the images is only a sample pattern and is not one of the children’s designs.
1. Visit the Orthodox Pebbles profile on Spoonflower: spoonflower.com/profiles/orthodox_pebbles
2. Choose your pattern
Click on any thumbnail to choose the pattern you want to use.
3. Choose the type of fabric
Spoonflower offers thirty different types of fabric to choose from.
They also provide helpful guidance on choosing the right fabric for different types of projects and products. You can find their recommendations HERE.
4. Choose the fabric size
The options to choose from are:
- Yard or meter: Best for larger sewing and home-decor projects. Choose this option for items like curtains, cushions, upholstery, blankets, clothing, or when you need a continuous length of fabric.
- Fat quarter: Small, pre-cut pieces of fabric. Their size varies depending on the type of fabric, making them a great choice for small sewing projects, especially for children.
- Swatch: This is an 8″ × 8″ sample piece of fabric that allows you to preview the design before ordering a larger quantity.
5. Choose the amount of fabric
Enter a number to specify the fabric quantity.
EXTRA OPTION
Ready-made products
Spoonflower also offers a selection of ready-made home décor items featuring the designs. Simply scroll down the page to browse the available options.
6. Add the item to your Shopping Cart
Add your chosen item to the cart and proceed through checkout as you would with any online purchase.
2026 SAINT EMMELIA MASSACHUSETTS CONFERENCE
$15 reimbursement!
After completing your purchase, email your receipt to Ann to receive a $15 reimbursement: programs @ saintemmelia.com
WHAT TO MAKE WITH MY FABRIC?
An adult can use the fabric to create all kinds of sewn items. It can be especially meaningful to make something for the children’s parish, such as a tablecloth for a communal gathering or a gift for the priest or parish secretary. In this way, the workshop’s main takeaway is brought to life: decorative arts are an essential part of Orthodox Church life, helping to make visible the beauty of the Kingdom of God.
There are also many child-friendly projects that can be made using a fat quarter or a larger piece of fabric. Fleece fabric is especially appropriate for kids’ creations, as it doesn’t fray and needs no hemming.
For inspiration and ideas, check out these resources:
