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Fabric Defines Space
May 16, 2011
Watch a scientist at work as a toddler places an acorn on a slide, runs to retrieve it, and repeats the experiment over and over.
-Diane Trister Dodge, founder of Teaching Strategies
-Diane Trister Dodge, founder of Teaching Strategies
"When thinking about using color to define classroom spaces and areas, it might be assumed that paint is the only effective technique. But, by reframing our viewfinder, we discover there are other techniques that may be used. Instead of using paint, for example, colorful fabric panels might define a space such as this library area. Attaching a curtain rod to the wall and hanging the curtains, pictures, and clock is a quick and inexpensive fix for a dull spot, yet it is also a wonderful solution for defining space in a small area.
"Stretch your imagination and reframe your viewfinder a little more by envisioning a whimsical and colorful sail floating over an area in your indoor (and even outdoor) classroom. The process of creating this sail began with children’s interest in the metamorphosis of butterflies. First, images of butterflies were sketched by the children. The children’s drawings were transferred onto their own overhead transparency. Then, with the children’s directives regarding desired locations, the drawings were projected onto the canvas. Using a ballpoint pen, each child traced his own projected image. After all the drawings were transferred onto the canvas, the children painted the mural with vibrant colors."
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Comments (5)
Displaying All 5 CommentsUnited States
Check with your local fire inspector and/or fire codes before hanging fabric indoors. In our center we would not able to do something like this as it would be a violation of local fire codes. We cannot hang anything from the ceiling and not more than 1/4 of all the wall space can have anything flammable adhered to it.
United States
Fabric is a great tool, but be careful about local fire ordinances. In New York, we are not allowed to hang any fabric that has not been fireproofed.
USM
Portland, ME, United States
I absolutely love these ideas...but we run into fire code violations in our state all the time.
USM
Portland, ME, United States
I absolutely love these ideas...but we run into fire code violations in our state all the time.
Language Castle.com
Newtown, PA, United States
This is a wonderful idea - and for a reason that might surprise you: fabric helps to absorb excess noise in a classroom - making it easier for children who are dual language learners to really hear the speech sounds of the languages in their environment. Sadly, some states and municipalities have regulations prohibiting the use of fabrics and carpets because of potential allergy issues. What can we do??
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