Brushes have many uses, including cleaning off a workspace, gathering rubbish into a dustpan, cleaning off leather boots, or lightly dusting off surfaces around the house.
In this course students will practice the fundamentals of carving and joining wood through crafting a general use wooden brush. The class will consist of designing, practicing basic hand tool techniques, and joining the brush bristles to the body of the brush.
We will be using tampico for the bristles of the brush, a natural fiber derived from the yucca plant.
Students of all skill levels are welcome, and students that are looking for a more challenging project can incorporate elements of traditional joinery into their brush.
Fee: $52.00
Instructor: Francis Fong
Capacity Remaining: 7
Schedule Details: Sunday May 24th from 10-1pm
Dates: 5/24/2020 - 5/24/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
Brushes have many uses, including cleaning off a workspace, gathering rubbish into a dustpan, cleaning off leather boots, or lightly dusting off surfaces around the house.
In this course students will practice the fundamentals of carving and joining wood through crafting a general use wooden brush. The class will consist of designing, practicing basic hand tool techniques, and joining the brush bristles to the body of the brush.
We will be using tampico for the bristles of the brush, a natural fiber derived from the yucca plant.
Students of all skill levels are welcome, and students that are looking for a more challenging project can incorporate elements of traditional joinery into their brush.
Fee: $52.00
Instructor: Francis Fong
Capacity Remaining: 8
Schedule Details: Sunday June 28th 10am-1pm
Dates: 6/28/2020 - 6/28/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
Class will cover basic lathe operation, safety, proper use of a core set of lathe tools, tool sharpening, how to prepare wood for turning, mounting techniques, and finishing. This is a hands on class where students will complete a spindle project (wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student's choice) during the morning and a small bowl in the afternoon, both of which they'll take home. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and review lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced costs.
Students are welcome to bring any personal woodturning tools they have and the instructor will review them with the student on proper use and if necessary show them how to sharpen.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
13 years and up welcome!
Youth as young as 10 may be permitted but only after instructor has talked to a parent.
Please note class takes place at Larry Miller's shop:
4621 John Luhr Rd Ne
Olympia, WA 98516
Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: Saturday, Sept 12, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm - later if necessary to finish projects.
Dates: 9/12/2020 - 9/12/2020
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Larry Miller's Shop
Room:
THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below. Ages 14 and up welcome!
In this beginner wheel throwing class we will cover the basics of centering on the wheel! We will focus on throwing bowls and cylindrical forms. I will go over trimming your pottery and attaching handles or adornments. There will be demonstration on various surface techniques throughout the process of finishing your pieces, such as adding texture when the clay is wet to layering glazes once the piece has gone through its first firing. Working with clay is the medium in which I use to balance my body and soul and I hope to share that sentiment with you in this 6-week course.
We highly recommend that students bring their own towel and apron.
Fee: $280.00
Instructor: Andritta Bernstein
Capacity Remaining: 0
Dates: 5/7/2020 - 5/28/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: Th
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
Thursday Evenings from 6-9pm
4 remaining session
In beginning Rigid Heddle weaving you will learn the parts of a rigid heddle loom and the importance each part plays in your weaving. You will learn how to warp a loom and weave a scarf. You will also learn hemstitching that holds woven yarn in place after the scarf is removed from the loom.
We’ll talk a little about Fibonacci sequencing that will help you design future projects.
We will also discuss different weave structures and how color can really impact your woven items. Our first woven project will be a houndstooth scarf made out of worsted weight yarn, wool will work best. You will choose your own two contrasting colors, preferably one light and one dark. A traditional houndstooth pattern is made from very light grey or off white and a charcoal grey or black color palette. However, this is your scarf so your color choice will be perfect. Just make sure to pick a light and a dark color.
You will need to bring:
Two skeins of yarn at approximately 220 yard per skein, average cost $25
Scissors
Tape measure
Tapestry needle
Fee: $140.00
Instructor: Joan Hoffmeyer
Capacity Remaining: 2
Schedule Details: May 16 & 17, 10 am to 4 pm
Dates: 5/16/2020 - 5/17/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
In this beginning spinning class we will discuss wheel mechanics, learn about twist and how fiber behaves, worsted and woolen spinning, and how to make balanced singles and 2 ply yarn. Our focus will be on spinning wool.
Ages 14 and up welcome!
Bring a spinning wheel if you own one, if not you may borrow one from the school.
Fee: $89.00
Instructor: Wendy Clark
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: 3 Sessions, Tuesday evenings from 6-8pm May 5th, 12th & 19th
Dates: 5/5/2020 - 5/19/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sessions: 3
Days: Tu
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Bomaki Shibori is a Japanese form of binding and dyeing fabric on a solid core, usually a pipe, to create patterning and possibly texture. In this class we will learn the basics of immersion dying silk and wool with hot water acid dyes. Then we will explore variations of pole wrapping creating several samples which will then be over-dyed or discharged, a process of removing color. Each student will make several samples in silk and wool to take home including one finished silk scarf.
Ages 18 and up welcome!
Students should bring thread snips or scissors, masking tape, and an old towel.
For this course, sturdy closed toed shoes are required, and students should expect to get dye on their clothing - dress accordingly!
Fee: $195.00
Instructor: Laura Hunter
Capacity Remaining: 8
Schedule Details: 2 Sessions, Saturday & Sunday from 10am-3pm
Dates: 5/30/2020 - 5/31/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
Open studio time is unstructured time for students to practice independently to enhance their abilities. Participants are required to have basic pottery or hand building skill level and will be able to use the studio to work independently. This registration is for hand building techniques only; our wheels are reserved for students currently enrolled in wheel throwing classes at Arbutus Folk School. Instruction is not included in open studio time, though a studio aide will be on hand to answer questions. It includes use of the ceramic studio, tools, and equipment. Additional clay and firing fees will apply.
A la carte fees (bring cash or check to class):
Clay: $10- $13 per 25 lb bag
Firing: Charge depends on volume of work being fired
Glazes included in firing fee
Students currently enrolled in classes pay only for open studio time and do not need to pay additional fees for glaze and firings to participate in the open studio.
Fee: $18.00
Instructor: Andritta Bernstein
Capacity Remaining: 6
Schedule Details: Monday Evenings from 6-9pm
Dates: 5/4/2020 - 5/4/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: M
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
Open studio time is unstructured time for students to practice independently to enhance their abilities. Participants are required to have basic pottery or hand building skill level and will be able to use the studio to work independently. This registration is for wheel throwing. Instruction is not included in open studio time, though a studio aide will be on hand to answer questions. It includes use of the ceramic studio, tools, and equipment. Additional clay and firing fees will apply.
A la carte fees (bring cash or check to class):
Clay: $10- $13 per 25 lb bag
Firing: Charge depends on volume of work being fired
Glazes included in firing fee
Students currently enrolled in classes pay only for open studio time and do not need to pay additional fees for glaze and firings to participate in the open studio.
Fee: $18.00
Instructor: Andritta Bernstein
Capacity Remaining: 7
Schedule Details: Monday evenings from 6-9pm
Dates: 5/4/2020 - 5/4/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: M
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
Weaving images by hand is an ancient art form that has continued to inspire contemporary artists worldwide. In this class, we will cover all of the basic building blocks of beginning a personal tapestry weaving practice: warping a tapestry frame loom, creating and using designs suitable for weaving, building shapes, color blending, and some of the many techniques for finishing and display of your piece.
All yarn and tools will be provided, and the looms we use in class* will be yours to keep. We will also discuss different kinds of yarn and looms, their suitability for tapestry, and what to look for when shopping for supplies.
*If you have taken a weaving class with Annette and already have a copper pipe loom, there is variable pricing available.*
Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Annette Harrison
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: Saturday and Sunday, June 6 & 7, 10 am to 4 pm
Dates: 6/6/2020 - 6/7/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Weaving images by hand is an ancient art form that has continued to inspire contemporary artists worldwide. In this class, we will cover all of the basic building blocks of beginning a personal tapestry weaving practice: warping a tapestry frame loom, creating and using designs suitable for weaving, building shapes, color blending, and some of the many techniques for finishing and display of your piece.
All yarn and tools will be provided, and the looms we use in class* will be yours to keep. We will also discuss different kinds of yarn and looms, their suitability for tapestry, and what to look for when shopping for supplies.
*If you have taken a weaving class with Annette and already have a copper pipe loom, there is variable pricing available.*
Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Annette Harrison
Capacity Remaining: 6
Schedule Details: Saturday and Sunday, September 19 & 20, 10 am to 4 pm
Dates: 9/19/2020 - 9/20/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Arbutus is hosting an "Embroidery Circle" for those who want to meet up with other stitchers in the community. We meet on a Sunday each month for 2 hours, from 10:30am -12:30 pm. If you have questions, need guidance, or just want to come share - this is the group for you! All levels of experience are welcomed! While the group will have a knowledgeable "guide," we will all learn from each other! Bring in your ideas and projects: let's talk Embroidery!! There is a minimal charge of $5 for each session to help with Arbutus overhead.
Drop-ins are welcomed as space allows. However, we strongly recommend registering in advance: if there are no advance registrations, that month will be cancelled. Also, space is guaranteed for those who register in advance.
Fee: $5.00
Instructor: Roberta "Bobbi" Chase
Capacity Remaining: 10
Schedule Details: Sunday, 10:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m.
Dates: 4/19/2020 - 4/19/2020
Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Arbutus is hosting an "Embroidery Circle" for those who want to meet up with other stitchers in the community. We meet on a Sunday each month for 2 hours, from 10:30am -12:30 pm. If you have questions, need guidance, or just want to come share - this is the group for you! All levels of experience are welcomed! While the group will have a knowledgeable "guide," we will all learn from each other! Bring in your ideas and projects: let's talk Embroidery!! There is a minimal charge of $5 for each session to help with Arbutus overhead.
Drop-ins are welcomed as space allows. However, we strongly recommend registering in advance: if there are no advance registrations, that month will be cancelled. Also, space is guaranteed for those who register in advance.
Fee: $5.00
Instructor: Roberta "Bobbi" Chase
Capacity Remaining: 10
Schedule Details: Sunday, 10:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m.
Dates: 5/17/2020 - 5/17/2020
Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room:
Arbutus is hosting an "Embroidery Circle" for those who want to meet up with other stitchers in the community. We meet on a Sunday each month for 2 hours, from 10:30am -12:30 pm. If you have questions, need guidance, or just want to come share - this is the group for you! All levels of experience are welcomed! While the group will have a knowledgeable "guide," we will all learn from each other! Bring in your ideas and projects: let's talk Embroidery!! There is a minimal charge of $5 for each session to help with Arbutus overhead.
Drop-ins are welcomed as space allows. However, we strongly recommend registering in advance: if there are no advance registrations, that month will be cancelled. Also, space is guaranteed for those who register in advance.
Fee: $5.00
Instructor: Roberta "Bobbi" Chase
Capacity Remaining: 11
Schedule Details: Sunday, 10:30 a.m - 12:30 p.m.
Dates: 6/14/2020 - 6/14/2020
Times: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Loop-in-Loop Chain making is an ancient technique that spans many cultures and countries. Considering the complexity and beauty of the product, the process is surprisingly simple. But like anything simple and handmade, time and technique come into play.
In this class you will learn basic metalsmithing techniques using fine silver. During our first session you will create jump rings and then fuse them using a torch. We will then cover shaping and weaving the pieces together. Between the first and second session you will take your jump rings home with the necessary tools to finish the weaving process. Depending on your ambition you will return for the second session with your bracelet or necklace. During the second session you will refine the piece by annealing it and stretching it through a draw plate. The last step is creating a clasp that will ensure you will walk away wearing a beautiful piece of art you have made!
The techniques covered in this class include cold forming metal wire, fusing fine silver with a torch, silver soldering, & basic fine metal hammering techniques.
The class fee will equip you with the materials you need to create a fine silver chain bracelet or necklace in addition to a few of the tools necessary to pursue further projects on your own. The instructor will provide you with sources for additional supplies and tools if you wish to develop your own home practice.
Fee: $217.00
Instructor: Pamela Davis
Capacity Remaining: 8
Schedule Details: Sundays, July 12 & 19, 10 am to 3 pm
Dates: 7/12/2020 - 7/19/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
THIS CLASS IS FULL. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.
Spring is just around the corner and with it our return to enjoying the outdoors. What better way to prepare for the return of warmer weather than to build a beautiful wooden bench for your patio or garden? And making it with your own hands from native northwest Red Cedar using traditional tools and methods will make the experience just that much more enjoyable. Arbutus will supply the tools and materials so, since the class is suitable for everyone from novice to more experienced woodworker, all you need bring is a love for beautiful things made from wood and the willingness to take on a new challenge.
Fee: $218.00
Instructor: Madeline "Maddie" Morgan
Capacity Remaining: 0
Dates: 4/14/2020 - 4/23/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: Tu Th
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
Tuesday & Thursday eves, 6-9 pm, April 14, 16, 21, & 23
Spring is just around the corner and with it our return to enjoying the outdoors. What better way to prepare for the return of warmer weather than to build a beautiful wooden bench for your patio or garden? And making it with your own hands from native northwest Red Cedar using traditional tools and methods will make the experience just that much more enjoyable. Arbutus will supply the tools and materials so, since the class is suitable for everyone from novice to more experienced woodworker, all you need bring is a love for beautiful things made from wood and the willingness to take on a new challenge.
Fee: $218.00
Instructor: Madeline "Maddie" Morgan
Capacity Remaining: 8
Schedule Details: Tuesday & Thursday eves, 6-9pm, April 28, 30, May 5, & 7
Dates: 4/28/2020 - 5/7/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: Tu Th
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
MAY - TEXTURED VASES!
Each month Arbutus offers an informal 2 hour "Play with Clay" class. There will always be a guided theme project. However, experienced students are encouraged to design their own projects, working with the instructor to tailor the project to this short timeline. Students will glaze and fire their projects at the second class. $48 class fee includes clay, glaze and firing. This class is intended for adults. Wine is available for purchase.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
Projects for upcoming months:
March - Garden Creatures
April - Weed Pots
May - Textured Vases
June - Fermentation Accessories
Fee: $48.00
Instructor: Nicole Gugliotti
Capacity Remaining: 10
Schedule Details: Friday eves, May 1st & 15th, 6-8pm
Dates: 5/1/2020 - 5/15/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: F
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
JUNE - FERMENTATION ACCESSORIES!
Each month Arbutus offers an informal 2 hour "Play with Clay" class. There will always be a guided theme project. However, experienced students are encouraged to design their own projects, working with the instructor to tailor the project to this short timeline. Students will glaze and fire their projects at the second class. $48 class fee includes clay, glaze and firing. This class is intended for adults. Wine is available for purchase.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
Projects for upcoming months:
March - Garden Creatures
April - Weed Pots
May - Textured Vases
June - Fermentation Accessories
Fee: $48.00
Instructor: Nicole Gugliotti
Capacity Remaining: 10
Schedule Details: Friday eves, June 5th & 19th, 6-8 pm
Dates: 6/5/2020 - 6/19/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: F
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
Here is a little project class that will leave you with something "useful and beautiful". Using silk overdyed ribbons, you will learn some basic ribbon embroidery skills to embellish your silk pincushion. Stuffed with clean wool fleece, you will learn how to construct this traditional tufted "pumpkin" pincushion.
Students Should Bring: 5" screw-type embroidery hoop, embroidery scissors. Kit will include silk fabric, silk ribbon, threads, needles, buttons, wool fleece, needles, and instructions. $18 to be paid to the instructor in class.
Fee: $42.00
Instructor: Roberta "Bobbi" Chase
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Saturday May 9th, 10am - 1pm
Dates: 5/9/2020 - 5/9/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
In this class students will learn some fundamental skills of hand tool woodworking through constructing a small dovetail box. On the first day students will learn how to use basic layout tool and will cut a practice dovetail joint. The following days will be committed to cutting joinery, making a simple lid, and applying a finish. Students will become familiar with hand saws, chisels, marking tools, and simple maneuvers on a router table.
Fee: $194.00
Instructor: Francis Fong
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Friday 4/17 6-9 pm, Saturday & Sunday 4/18 & 4/19 10 am to 3 pm
Dates: 4/17/2020 - 4/19/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Sessions: 3
Days: Su F Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
In this class students will learn some fundamental skills of hand tool woodworking through constructing a small dovetail box. On the first day students will learn how to use basic layout tool and will cut a practice dovetail joint. The following days will be committed to cutting joinery, making a simple lid, and applying a finish. Students will become familiar with hand saws, chisels, marking tools, and simple maneuvers on a router table.
Fee: $194.00
Instructor: Francis Fong
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: 3 Sessions: Friday Evening June 19th from 6-9pm, Saturday & Sunday June 20th & 21st from 10-3pm
Dates: 6/19/2020 - 6/21/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Sessions: 3
Days: Su F Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
In this workshop we will be discussing and practicing plying techniques for making balanced yarns and creating yarns with 2-ply, 3-ply and chain plying (AKA Navajo plying).
Students need to bring: Spinning wheel, lazy kate, and four bobbins. If you do not have these items, please contact us. We may have extras for you to borrow.
Participants must know how to create a single yarn.
14 years and up welcome! Younger students on a case-by-case basis.
Fee: $52.00
Instructor: Wendy Clark
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Saturday, August 29th 10 am to 1 pm
Dates: 8/29/2020 - 8/29/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Front Classroom
Challenge yourself to transform an entire block of clay into one magnificent pot! This workshop will provide detailed instruction about how to scale up your designs by throwing and assembling a pot in sections. Demonstration and personal instruction will occur during the first day of the workshop. Strategies about how to handle larger amount of clay with less effort will be discussed. Emphasis will be placed on how to direct the clay into a desired shape and how to achieve volume in the final form of your pot. The second day of the workshop, which will occur after your pieces are bisque fired, will focus on methods of glazing larger pots. Students will finish the workshop with their completed pot, as well as the fundamental knowledge and tools to continue their practice of making bigger pots!
Intermediate to advanced students only.
Arbutus will provide basic throwing tools, but students should bring any favorite throwing tools of their own.
Fee: $170.00
Instructor: Alan Perillo
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: July 11, 9 am to 4 pm and July 25, 9 am to noon.
Dates: 7/11/2020 - 7/25/2020
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
This course is focused on developing a basic understanding of wooden boatbuilding by constructing a small wooden rowboat (no plywood or glue). The skills learned in this class are useful to anyone who has an interest in woodworking, art, or construction. Throughout the course there will be a variety of demonstrations helping the students prepare for the next step. Working together as a team, the boat will be assembled with near perfect joinery to keep it afloat. Skills acquired will also include basic hand tool use/maintenance, bending wood, making oars, and pattern making. No experience is necessary, but students must be prepared to work diligently to improve hand skills and develop an eye for craftsmanship.
The class will collaborate to build one small rowboat. Fee: $1,000.00
Instructor: Ben Kahn
Capacity Remaining: 7
Schedule Details: August 1-14 from 9am-5pm, skips August 8th & 9th.
Dates: 8/1/2020 - 8/14/2020
Times: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sessions: 12
Days: Su D Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Woodshop
Class will cover basic lathe operation, safety, proper use of a core set of lathe tools, tool sharpening, how to prepare wood for turning, mounting techniques, and finishing. This is a hands on class where students will complete a spindle project (wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student's choice) during the morning and a small bowl in the afternoon, both of which they'll take home. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and review lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced costs.
Students are welcome to bring any personal woodturning tools they have and the instructor will review them with the student on proper use and if necessary show them how to sharpen.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
13 years and up welcome!
Youth as young as 10 may be permitted but only after instructor has talked to a parent.
Please note class takes place at Larry Miller's shop:
4621 John Luhr Rd Ne
Olympia, WA 98516
Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: Saturday, April 11, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm - later if necessary to finish projects.
Dates: 4/11/2020 - 4/11/2020
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Larry Miller's Shop
Room:
The introduction to blacksmithing course is a six-hour course designed to expose students to basic blacksmithing techniques. Students will begin the day by making nails - nails are a great exercise as they require several different forging techniques: drawing a taper, using a hot cut hardy, and upsetting. In making the nails students will also gain confidence in swinging a hammer, hitting accurately and with vigor, managing hot steel in the forge and comfortably working at the anvil.
The second exercise will be to make decorative leaves. Leaves are a great next step as they use several of the techniques learned in making the nails plus a few new techniques are introduced, such as the use of a chisel on hot steel, spreading metal to make the lobes of the leaf and sinking the leaf form into a stump. The piece of steel with a leaf on one end can then become many different things, a simple hook, a fire poker, a BBQ fork, or whatever else the student comes up with.
The last portion of the day is set aside to simply practice skills learned. Students can make a bottle opener, coat hook, more nails, more leaves, etc.
The primary goals of the class are for students to have a fun time in a relaxed environment and learn basic blacksmithing skills.
Registration closes 1 week before the day of class.
Students must be 18 years of age or older.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants required.
Blacksmithing classes are located at Kelly Rigg's studio at 6305 Rich Rd. SE, Unit C, Olympia, WA.
Directions: Yelm Highway to Rich Rd SE, 3/4 Mile (or so) on right hand side to "Arts Park" main entrance. Look for the "Studio 23" sign above the studio entrance.
Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Capacity Remaining: 2
Schedule Details:
Dates: 4/25/2020 - 4/25/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Blacksmith Studio
Room:
This class is intended to introduce the beginner to basics of clay work and to allow the more experienced student to practice both hand building and wheel throwing techniques. With a primary focus on vessels, there is a lot of room for creativity. Mindfulness exercises will be incorporated into the instruction. Students must be able to follow complex directions and focus on their work.
Ages 9 to 16 years old.
Registration closes 3 days before the start of class.
Fee: $137.00
Instructor: Meghan Hopkins
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Fridays afternoons, 3:30-5:30 pm, May 1st-22nd
Dates: 5/1/2020 - 5/22/2020
Times: 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: F
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
This is a beginning class offered by Tenino's living stonecarving legend, Keith Phillips. Class takes place at the carving shed in Tenino, 12 miles south of Olympia. Address is 147 Olympia St N, Tenino, WA 98589.
Link to Google map>
Tenino is the home of three sandstone quarries which have been a vital source of industry and craft for over a century. This industry centered on architectural structural stone which included artistic, carved ornamentation. Many historically significant buildings and sculptures on the west coast, are carved of Tenino sandstone, including the old courthouse across from the capitol as well as the old Federal building in Olympia, WA. Tenino has maintained its stonecarving tradition - this class is a unique opportunity to learn from one of the masters.
For those who are interested in working with Tenino sandstone we offer a 4-day workshop that covers the basics of carving with mallet and chisel. Students are encouraged to design their own project for a 12"x8" block of Tenino sandstone and may include letter carving or decorative relief. Students, as beginners, should start with plain and simple uncomplicated bas-relief designs. This class also includes a field trip to the Hercules #1 Quarry and the Tenino Depot Museum. The workshop will take place on 4 consecutive Saturdays from 10am - 2 pm at the Shed in downtown Tenino. Bring comfortable shoes and, depending on the season, dress for possibly cold weather as the Shed is an unheated workshop with large open doors. Safety equipment is provided. Street parking and nearby restrooms are available. This class is instructed by Tenino Stone Carver Keith Phillips.
Ages 18 and up welcome.
Registration closes two weeks prior to start of class.
Fee: $250.00
Instructor: Keith Phillips
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Saturdays, 10 am - 2 pm, May 2 - May 23
Dates: 5/2/2020 - 5/23/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: Sa
Building: Tenino Stonecarving Shed
Room:
Class will cover basic lathe operation, safety, proper use of a core set of lathe tools, tool sharpening, how to prepare wood for turning, mounting techniques, and finishing. This is a hands on class where students will complete a spindle project (wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student's choice) during the morning and a small bowl in the afternoon, both of which they'll take home. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and review lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced costs.
Students are welcome to bring any personal woodturning tools they have and the instructor will review them with the student on proper use and if necessary show them how to sharpen.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
13 years and up welcome!
Youth as young as 10 may be permitted but only after instructor has talked to a parent.
Please note class takes place at Larry Miller's shop:
4621 John Luhr Rd Ne
Olympia, WA 98516
Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: Saturday, May 9, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm - later if necessary to finish projects.
Dates: 5/9/2020 - 5/9/2020
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Larry Miller's Shop
Room:
In this intermediate 2-day blacksmithing class students will learn the processes involved with making a pair of tongs, a walking chisel, a hammer and a round punch. If time allows material will be available for making other chisels and punches that are common in the blacksmith’s shop.
The class is intended for students who have a bit of forging experience under their belt already or have taken a beginning blacksmithing course before.
The goals of this class is to teach students in a laid back, fun positive environment the techniques involved in tool making for the blacksmith shop.
18 years and older only
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants required
Blacksmithing classes are located at Kelly Rigg's studio at 6305 Rich Rd. SE, Unit C, Olympia, WA.
Directions: Yelm Highway to Rich Rd SE, 3/4 Mile (or so) on right hand side to "Arts Park" main entrance. Look for the "Studio 23" sign above the studio entrance.
Fee: $360.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Capacity Remaining: 4
Schedule Details: May 16 & 17, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. both days.
Dates: 5/16/2020 - 5/17/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Blacksmith Studio
Room:
The introduction to blacksmithing course is a six-hour course designed to expose students to basic blacksmithing techniques. Students will begin the day by making nails - nails are a great exercise as they require several different forging techniques: drawing a taper, using a hot cut hardy, and upsetting. In making the nails students will also gain confidence in swinging a hammer, hitting accurately and with vigor, managing hot steel in the forge and comfortably working at the anvil.
The second exercise will be to make decorative leaves. Leaves are a great next step as they use several of the techniques learned in making the nails plus a few new techniques are introduced, such as the use of a chisel on hot steel, spreading metal to make the lobes of the leaf and sinking the leaf form into a stump. The piece of steel with a leaf on one end can then become many different things, a simple hook, a fire poker, a BBQ fork, or whatever else the student comes up with.
The last portion of the day is set aside to simply practice skills learned. Students can make a bottle opener, coat hook, more nails, more leaves, etc.
The primary goals of the class are for students to have a fun time in a relaxed environment and learn basic blacksmithing skills.
Registration closes 1 week before the day of class.
Students must be 18 years of age or older.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants required.
Blacksmithing classes are located at Kelly Rigg's studio at 6305 Rich Rd. SE, Unit C, Olympia, WA.
Directions: Yelm Highway to Rich Rd SE, 3/4 Mile (or so) on right hand side to "Arts Park" main entrance. Look for the "Studio 23" sign above the studio entrance.
Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Capacity Remaining: 6
Schedule Details: Saturday, June 6
Dates: 6/6/2020 - 6/6/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Blacksmith Studio
Room:
Class will cover basic lathe operation, safety, proper use of a core set of lathe tools, tool sharpening, how to prepare wood for turning, mounting techniques, and finishing. This is a hands on class where students will complete a spindle project (wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student's choice) during the morning and a small bowl in the afternoon, both of which they'll take home. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and review lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced costs.
Students are welcome to bring any personal woodturning tools they have and the instructor will review them with the student on proper use and if necessary show them how to sharpen.
REGISTRATION CLOSES 3 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF CLASS
13 years and up welcome!
Youth as young as 10 may be permitted but only after instructor has talked to a parent.
Please note class takes place at Larry Miller's shop:
4621 John Luhr Rd Ne
Olympia, WA 98516
Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Capacity Remaining: 5
Schedule Details: Saturday, June 13, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm - later if necessary to finish projects.
Dates: 6/13/2020 - 6/13/2020
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Sessions: 1
Days: Sa
Building: Larry Miller's Shop
Room:
REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED. Ages 14 and up welcome!
In this beginner wheel throwing class we will cover the basics of centering on the wheel! We will focus on throwing bowls and cylindrical forms. I will go over trimming your pottery and attaching handles or adornments. There will be demonstration on various surface techniques throughout the process of finishing your pieces, such as adding texture when the clay is wet to layering glazes once the piece has gone through its first firing. Working with clay is the medium in which I use to balance my body and soul and I hope to share that sentiment with you in this 6-week course.
We highly recommend that students bring their own towel and apron.
Fee: $280.00
Instructor: Andritta Bernstein
Capacity Remaining: 5
Dates: 2/27/2020 - 4/2/2020
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sessions: 6
Days: Th
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
2/27/20-4/2/20 Thursday evenings from 6-9pm
REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED.
Skill Requirement: Previous ceramic experience and familiarity with Arbutus studio required.
Ages 18 and older
This class is created for people who are familiar with the Arbutus ceramic studio, know how to work with clay and would like to create their own project with the guidance and support of an instructor.
Please bring your ceramic skills and your ideas for a project
- anything you have always wanted to make and anything that makes your heart sing! Mike will encourage and guide students working on independent projects using the wheel, handbuilding and/or tile techniques. Students may experiment with glazes and underglazes to color, define and beautify your work.
This class does not include clay or firing fees as every project will be different. Please expect to purchase clay and kiln firing fees in class, similar to our open studio model.
Clay: $10- $13 per 25 lb bag
Firing: Charge depends on dimensions of work being fired
Glazes: included in firing fee
This is a great opportunity to make a ceramic project of your own including a mosaic tile backsplash for your kitchen or bathroom, tile a tabletop, make your own set of dishes or whatever you'd like to accomplish with the support of an instructor.
Please bring drawings, ideas and hopes for a project you would like to create.
Fee: $133.00
Instructor: Mike Cummins
Capacity Remaining: 5
Dates: 3/22/2020 - 4/12/2020
Times: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Sessions: 4
Days: Su
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Ceramic Studio
03/22/20 - 04/12/20 Sunday Evenings 5pm-8pm
REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED.
In this class, students will learn basic weaving techniques using both stick and boat shuttles on pre-warped looms. They will also learn the parts of a loom and how they work, weaving language, how to read weaving drafts, wind a bobbin and stick shuttle, throw a shuttle, maintain an even weaving beat, keep neat selvedges and finish their completed projects. Students will take home a minimum of 4 completed handwoven pieces.
Students 14 years and up welcome!
Fee: $226.00
Instructor: Liz Frey
Capacity Remaining: 2
Dates: 5/16/2020 - 5/17/2020
Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Arbutus Folk School
Room: Weaving Loft (upstairs)
Saturday & Sunday, May 16 & 17, 9 am to 4 pm
REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED.
In this intermediate 2-day blacksmithing class students will learn the processes involved with making a pair of tongs, a walking chisel, a hammer and a round punch. If time allows material will be available for making other chisels and punches that are common in the blacksmith’s shop.
The class is intended for students who have a bit of forging experience under their belt already or have taken a beginning blacksmithing course before.
The goals of this class is to teach students in a laid back, fun positive environment the techniques involved in tool making for the blacksmith shop.
18 years and older only
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants required
Blacksmithing classes are located at Kelly Rigg's studio at 6305 Rich Rd. SE, Unit C, Olympia, WA.
Directions: Yelm Highway to Rich Rd SE, 3/4 Mile (or so) on right hand side to "Arts Park" main entrance. Look for the "Studio 23" sign above the studio entrance.
Fee: $360.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Capacity Remaining: 2
Dates: 3/28/2020 - 3/29/2020
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sessions: 2
Days: Su Sa
Building: Blacksmith Studio
Room:
March 28 & 29, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. both days
