Community Classes

Slow Stitching and Visible Mending

Join us for an introduction to slow stitching and visible mending. With needle and thread and a few basic stitches, enjoy the simplicity of this creative process. Slow stitching is grounded in the Japanese concepts of Wabi Sabi, which is basically the appreciation of imperfection, and Sashiko embroidery, which originated to prolong the life of well worn items of clothing. Sustainable and decorative hand-sewing are part of our local heritage as well. We will examine antique textiles directly from the Brookside Museum's Textile Collection, and see contemporary artistic embroidery created by our instructors. Tea and light refreshment will be served.

No previous experience is necessary and project materials will be provided. If you’d like to try visible mending, bring your favorite shirt or pair of jeans.

Cost: $15
Saturday, January 27, 1-3:30 pm
Skill Level: Beginner (students ages 12-16 should be accompanied by an adult).
The Brookside Museum in Ballston Spa
Instructors: Amy Thomas, Fiber Artist, and Erica Giebel, Prize-Winning Embroiderer

Upcycling: Handmade Placemats in a Traditional Woven Style

Curating a handmade home creates a sustainable and beautiful space for all to enjoy. From ancient times this has been how things were done. If you would like to learn the traditional art of weaving and have the delight of creating something lovely for your home, please join us. This 3-hour class will be led by local Native American crafter, Jacki Perry. We will hear the stories surrounding the First Weaver from Native American tradition. Regional wildcrafted snacks will accompany this class.

Cost: $30
Saturday, February 17 11:30-2:30 pm
Skill Level: Beginner (students ages 12-16 should be accompanied by an adult).
Galway Public Library
Instructors: Jacki Perry, Folks Arts Expert

Beginners Sip and Sew!

Looking for a fun night out with friends? Always wanted to learn how to use a sewing machine? Why not join us for the area’s first “Sip and Sew”. Participants will learn how to create custom pillowcases for their home with a lovely French seam. Everyone will enjoy the light appetizers and craft mocktails (We want straight seams!) accompanied by light music and great company. Our instructors are seasoned and enthusiastic seamstresses that will have you comfortable in no time. No previous sewing experience required! Individuals and groups welcome. Space is limited. Leave with actual skills and not simply a poorly copied painting!

Cost: $30 All materials provided.
Saturday, March 16 5:30-8:30 pm
Skill Level: Beginner
Cornell Cooperative Extension Ballston Spa
Instructors: Master Sewers, Joy Karns, Patricia Sowle, and Bonny DeCastro

Carving: Creating a Beautiful, Hand-Carved Spoon

Discover the traditional designs of kitchen spoons and learn how to carve your own masterpiece with our four-hour class. The course will provide an introduction to the necessary tools and materials, and students will receive pre-shaped "blanks" to work with. A simple carving knife will also be available for use or purchase for finishing your project at home. Additionally, a brief lesson on sharpening will be included for those who want to learn. By the end of the class, you'll feel confident in your hand-carving abilities and have a beautiful treasure to show for it – one that will make your meal times even more special.

**Bring a dish to pass for our community pot-luck lunch break!

Cost: $25 All materials provided.
Saturday, April 20 10 am-2 pm
Skill Level: Beginner (ages 16+)
Main Street Studio in Charleton
Instructor: Jason Nemec, Woodsmith

Basket Weaving for the Curated Kitchen

One of our longest classes of the series, this one will offer students with absolutely no knowledge of basketweaving the chance to learn and create a kitchen bread basked from start to finish. Common hand tools from home can be used. All weaving materials will be provided. Do not miss the opportunity to learn this life skill and add some hand-crafted and aesthetically pleasing storage to your home.

**Please bring an old towel, heavy duty scissors, clothes pins, and an awl or screwdriver.

Cost: $40
Saturday, May 18 from 10:30-4:30 pm
Skill Level: Beginner (students ages 12-16 should be accompanied by an adult).
Saratoga County Fairgound Ballston Spa
Instructor: Patti Brousseau, Master Basket Weaver

Foraging Walk: A Beginner's Introduction

Abundance is all around us in every green place, but do you know what is safe? Do you know what is tasty? Can you identify local plants? How did previous generations live without grocery stores? Come walk and explore our local terrior and you will discover a wealth of delicious and nutritious flavors right outside your door.

Participants will identify and gather local plants, learn about early photography methods using a cyanotype print, and conclude with a foraging feast.

Cost: $35
Saturday, June 15 10am-12:30 pm
Skill Level: Beginner (students ages 12-16 should be accompanied by an adult).
TBA
Instructor: Anne Best, Foraging Enthusiast and Julie Rohr, Art Teacher

Agricultural Society