Workshop discounted at $1895 if paid in full by July 1st . Space is consciously limited to prioritize personalized experience. *Price includes tuition, daily yoga class, all meals, shared lodging and full use of facilities. Limited number of private cabins are available for upgrade; please inquire if interested. All balances are due upon registration. MC/Visa, Venmo, PayPal, Check accepted. Gray Bear Lodge, PO Box 682 Hohenwald, TN 38462. Late registration (after July 1st) increases to $1895. Confirmation letter and additional information (including directions to Gray Bear) will be sent. Payment plan option offered if needed; please inquire.

What to bring: A project, kit, paper, fabrics and/or threads and sewing tools (scissors, needles, etc.) you love, comfortable clothing and walking shoes. A limited amount of organic cotton jersey scraps will be available for use.

Workshop Sign-up Form

Natalie Chanin: A Life Woven with Craft, Sustainability, and Storytelling

Natalie Chanin is an artist, designer, author, and advocate for sustainable living whose work embodies the values of community, craft, and environmental stewardship. As founder and creative director of Project Threadways, Alabama Chanin, and The School of Making, she has dedicated over three decades to redefining fashion and design through handmade, sustainable practices.

After earning a degree in Environmental Design with a focus on industrial and craft-based textiles, Chanin began her career as a fashion designer, stylist, and costume designer in New York and Europe. Despite her success, she felt compelled to return to her roots in northwest Alabama, a region rich in textile traditions. In 2000, Chanin founded Alabama Chanin, a lifestyle company creating hand-sewn, made-to-order garments and home goods. Using organic and recycled materials, her designs honor Southern textile traditions while championing sustainability. Alabama Chanin became a pioneer in the slow fashion movement, showing how fashion can be both beautiful and ethical.

To further her mission, Chanin established The School of Making, offering workshops, DIY kits, and educational resources that empower individuals to embrace craftsmanship and sustainability. This initiative has created a global community of makers who celebrate creativity and thoughtful design.

In 2019, Chanin launched Project Threadways, a non-profit documenting and preserving the history of American textiles. Through research, oral histories, and community programs, it fosters dialogue about the cultural and economic impact of textiles. In 2024, Alabama Chanin and The School of Making were folded under the non-profit work of Project Threadways and operate as part of the 501c3.

A prolific author, Chanin has written six books blending design, sustainability, and storytelling. She also lectures widely on preserving craft traditions and addressing contemporary challenges through design. Living in The Shoals community of northwest Alabama, Chanin exemplifies intentional living as a mother, gardener, and home cook. Her holistic approach to work and life inspires others to celebrate craftsmanship, preserve traditions, and live sustainably.

Learn more about Natalie on her website.

Diann Fuller is the co-director of Gray Bear Lodge and High Forest Institute. She began her yoga practice in 1985. Diann combines her love of the Earth and her gentle teaching style with harmony and balance.

Workshop Sign-up Form

This retreat is open to all; no prior experience required.

We'll begin with guests arriving 3:00 to 5:30 on Wednesday Oct 29th. Dinner is at 6:00pm, Orientation & opening circle follow. Sunday finishes with closing circle, lunch, and checkout at 2:00pm. (*) Gray Bear is a two hour drive from the Nashville (BNA) airport, so please plan arrival time/ departure time with this in mind.

Gray Bear is home to 400 acres of rolling hills, thick forest, natural springs, and even a waterfall. You can experience the wonders of nature while sitting in a hand-built wood fire sauna; hear the silence of nature's symphony lying on a hammock while curled under a blanket; and revel in clear air and water while using shower outdoors.

With all of this nature we have some suggestions to consider when packing:

• Working flashlight ...it gets dark with only the light of the stars to guide you!
• A bathing suit ... good for the hot tub, sauna, and Watsu massage pool
• Water bottle ...Gray Bear does not use disposable cups. Purified water is available in the Main House and the Yoga Room
• A bath robe/sarong
• House slippers or socks to wear indoors ...no shoes inside please
• Comfortable walking shoes/sandals for an inspired nature hike
• Warm clothing ...mornings & evenings can be cool
• Comfortable clothes for exercising/yoga

Please do not bring any drugs, alcohol, or pets. Gray Bear is a non-smoking, pet-free and alcohol-free facility.

Read more about Gray Bear.