As T & C Specialist at U of Wyoming in the early 80's, I attended a Charles Kleibacker draping workshop at Colorado State and was so impressed that I brought him to UW the following summer (1985) for a draping workshop. His expertise was so inspiring for everyone in that class. He brought a trunk full of his designs and we were all free to try them on. I particularly remember a long grey silk knit (2 layers of knit) that looked gorgeous on the tall body of one student. A black silk gown with tiny spaghetti straps and a very, very low back fascinated me. Being older than most of the students, I asked Charles (after class) if I could wear something like that. He said, "Sure, try it on". And with a few pinned in tucks here and there, it was flattering and lovely.

We draped in muslin - I still have mine, signed, of course, by Charles. We learned to incorporate so many "little things" that even the muslins looked great on our bodies. His generosity in sharing so many techniques was, indeed, a treasure for all of us. His charm and warmth in a workshop situation made everyone relaxed and wanting to learn more and more.

At the end of our week, we took Charles out for dinner and he wore his black and white tweed jacket. The young waitress at the restaurant accidentally spilled a glass of red wine on him - we all nearly died of embarrassment - but Charles was so gracious that dinner continued on with him sporting a now red stained black and white tweed jacket.

I still continue to use his techniques and always think of him when doing so. Bias designs have become a favorite for me and I use it often, remembering the fluidity of Charles' designs. He will, indeed be missed - such a gentleman - living on in our memories.

Carol Zahn