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Registration for this class is closed. Follow course link to view alternate dates.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Eowyn Smith (she/her)
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 9/13/2023 - 10/18/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: -1

This beginner wheel throwing class will cover the basics of centering clay on the potter's wheel. The class will focus on throwing bowl and cylindrical forms, as well as trimming and attaching handles or adornments. There will be demonstrations of various surface techniques throughout, 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 I use to balance my body and soul and I hope to share that sentiment with you in this 6-week course," Eowyn shares. Appropriate for all skill levels. Please enter through the door in the alley behind the building. All materials, tools, and equipment will be provided. Students should bring their own towel and apron, and wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Registration for this class is closed. Follow course link to view alternate dates.
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Fee: $190.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 9/23/2023 - 9/23/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Location: Blacksmith Studio
Max Class Size: 4
Capacity Remaining: -3
T his 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.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants are required. All tools and equipment will be provided. Class is held 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.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 9/24/2023 - 9/24/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 7
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $100.00
Instructor: Rowan Green (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 9/24/2023 - 9/24/2023
Times: 12:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 4
Let's talk COLOR! Are you enchanted by the beautiful braids of fiber at local yarn shops? Learn to make your own custom-dyed wool using basic items in your home kitchen like an old crock pot and food coloring.
The instructor will lead you though three different dyeing techniques using non-toxic food coloring dyes. You will also spin some previously dyed roving to see how the colors can be split up different ways. You'll get to take home your dyed roving in bags.
This course is appropriate for students with some basic knowledge of spinning. It is a great follow-up to the Drop Spindle for Beginners or the Beginning Wheel Spinning courses. Bring your wheel and spindle if you have one, or you may use one of our AshfordTraditional wheels. Please wear old clothing and shoes, or a large apron to protect clothing, as the dyes will stain permanently.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 9/25/2023 - 9/25/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 9
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 9/28/2023 - 9/28/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 9
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/1/2023 - 10/1/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $310.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 18+
Dates: 10/1/2023 - 10/30/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: Su M Th Sessions: 14
OCTOBER 2023. Membership drop-in hours are on Monday evenings (6-9pm), Thursday afternoons (2-5pm), and Sunday mornings (9am-noon)
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Become a Ceramics Studio Member to enjoy drop-in studio access, personal storage space, and materials/firing credits at a flat monthly rate.
Membership is an excellent way to continue practicing your craft after completing a class. Likewise, studio membership will benefit artists by providing not only studio access, but a vibrant creative community. Members may use studio time to work on self-directed projects, with our experienced staff present to orient and support. In addition to the use of clay, glazes, equipment, and tools, a Monthly Ceramics Studio Membership includes 2 square feet of dedicated storage space per member and 9 hours of studio access per week for the purchased month. Membership also includes firing the equivalent of one kiln load/month. Additional firings beyond this are available to members for purchase. Registration for individual Open Studio sessions remains available here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/2/2023 - 10/2/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/5/2023 - 10/5/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 9
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Joelle Montez
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 10/5/2023 - 11/9/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 6
Students will sculpt an animal of their choosing, fantastical or realistic, and turn it into a lidded container or vessel! We will cover sculpting solid and hollowing, joining, structural composition for working with ceramics, expressive detail, and surfacing techniques for texture and finishing.
This six session course will take you through all the stages of working with clay, beginning with wet clay, moving to leather hard, bone dry, bisque, all the way to glaze firing. Students will gain an understanding of what techniques are used during each stage, and learn skills that are transferable to other hand-building and throwing projects.
The course is open to complete beginners as well as those who have worked with clay before, allowing each person to create at their individual level of experience. Please bring cash/cheque for $10 to the first class to purchase a scoring tool and a scultping tool from the instructor. Course includes clay, bisque and glaze firings. Please bring a towel and apron that can get dirty.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $195.00
Instructor: Liz Frey
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 10/7/2023 - 10/8/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 4
In this two-session course, students will learn basic weaving techniques using both stick and boat shuttles on pre-warped floor looms, and will take home seven small completed handwoven pieces.
In the first session students will be introduced to the different parts of a loom and how they work. The instructor will cover weaving language and how to read weaving drafts, and demonstrate how to wind a bobbin and stick shuttle, throw a shuttle, advance the warp, add more weft, fix a broken warp thread, maintain an even weaving beat, and keep neat selvedges. In the second session students will use what they have learnt to weave and complete seven different samples.
Appropriate for beginners. No prior experience is required. All materials, tools, and equipment will be provided.
Please note that this course will take place upstairs in Marjorie's Loft. Because there are no elevator services to the Loft at this time, please notify our staff at info@arbutusfolkschool.org if you are interested in the class but unable to use stairs, in which case the instructor will ensure that your weaving project can be completed entirely in our downstairs space.
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Fee: $125.00
Instructor: Mary Van Cline (she/her)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/7/2023 - 10/8/2023
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Saturday, 10/07, from 10am-1pm, and Sunday, 10/08, from 2-5pm.
Location: Instructor's Studio
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 4
Explore glass as a medium and create a beautiful 8"x10" crystal iridescent glass leaves tealight, a perfect centerpiece for any table or gift for someone special!
In the first session of this kiln cast glass sculpture workshop, you will fill leaf-shaped molds with individual mosaic sized frit glass pieces. The colors of glass can be any combination of iridized clear crystal, ebony black, or champagne gold. The molds are then loaded into the glass kiln for a first firing. In the second session you will unload the glass leaves from the kiln, smooth the edges with a wet glass sander, and position them back into the kiln to be slump shaped. After a second firing, your tealight will be ready to take home!
This is a beginning level course. No experience is necessary. The basics of kiln casting and vocabulary terms will be presented, and students who complete the class will be eligible to participate in next-level glass classes with the instructor. All supplies are included. Please wear close toe shoes and long pants in the glass studios.
This workshop is taught by renowned glass artist, Mary Van Cline, and takes place at Glass-Studio.US, located in the New Kamilche area. Mary will email exact directions to all registered students prior to the start of the course. Your finished tealight can be picked up at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, the week after the course ends, during any of our Ceramics Open Studio hours: Sundays (9am-noon), Mondays (6-9pm), and Thursdays (2-5pm).
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/8/2023 - 10/8/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Anne Carroll Gilmour
Student Age: 12+
Dates: 10/8/2023 - 10/8/2023
Times: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 14
Capacity Remaining: 10
Waulking, or luadh ("loo-ugh") in Gaelic, is the time-honored process of hand finishing woolen cloth in the traditional way. In the Scottish Gaidhealtachd, most especially in the Hebrides, this method survived into the 20th century, and consists of getting a group of people around a large table to thump, rub, and pass the newly woven wetted cloth while singing traditional Orain Luadh (rhythmic gaelic waulking songs). This is still one of the most effective (and fun!) ways to wet-finish hand woven woolens, and has always served the very practical purpose of making the resulting cloth tight, strong, and weather-proof.
This waulking will be led by artist Anne Carroll Gilmour, who began learning about these traditional songs and methods as a child at her grandfather's knee, and with Scottish Master weaver & tradition bearer Norman Kennedy. The weft yarn for the cloth being waulked in this workshop was homegrown and handspun from Anne's flock of Romney/Corriedale cross sheep, and the cloth was woven by Anne at her home in Ridgefield, WA.
No need to know Gaelic to participate - this fun workshop is open to anyone willing to get their hands wet and attempt simple choruses in a foreign language. However, participating students must not be allergic to wool. Come Tae th' Waulking!
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Class Full. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Joelle Montez
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 10/9/2023 - 11/13/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: -5
T his is an introductory course to wheel throwing. Students will become familiar with the potter's wheel and basic throwing techniques such as centering, opening, and pulling, as well as trimming and glazing. Students will also learn how to securely attach handles and other adornments. Course runs for 6 weeks, and includes clay, bisque and glaze firings. No prior knowledge is required to participate. Please bring a towel and an apron that can get dirty and enter through the door in the alley behind the building.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/9/2023 - 10/9/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/12/2023 - 10/12/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 9
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $250.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 10/13/2023 - 10/14/2023
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Days: F Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Friday, 10/13, from 6-8:30pm, and Saturday, 19/14, from 8:30am-4:30pm.
Location: Larry Miller's Shop
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 3
In this 10 hour course spread over an evening and a full day, students will complete a spindle project (a wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student’s choice) and a small bowl, both of which they’ll take home after the class.
Friday evening will be devoted to safety, and lathe and tool orientation, followed by completion of the student’s choice of a spindle project. Saturday will be devoted to completing Friday’s project if needed, and completion of a small bowl, including finishing. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and go over different lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced cost.
Appropriate for all skill levels. All materials are included. A few days in advance of the class, the instructor will send an e-mail to all students containing a document on woodturning safety and techniques, directions to his shop, what to expect in the class, and what is appropriate attire for safety.
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Fee: $125.00
Instructor: Kirsten Miller (she/her)
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 10/14/2023 - 10/15/2023
Times: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 1
Come and learn how to “ecoprint” - or to transfer color directly from leaves or plants onto fabric - and create your own unique and colorful autumnal themed bandana!
After a brief introduction to natural dyes, your instructor will lead you around the neighborhood to harvest plants and leaves. A dye will be made from the locally sourced materials collected. Students will then learn special ecoprinting techniques that will help create defined prints of the locally-foraged plants on fabric.
Note that the instructor will mordant (or pre-treat) the fabric prior to class but will go over all the steps with students. Those interested in learning about the in-depth scour and mordanting (the fiber pre-treatment) process may like to register for the instructor's Introduction to Dyes course when it is next offered.
Students will leave with a simple materials guide, a mordanting guide, and their own unique ecoprinted autumnal bandana! Suitable for students with no prior knowledge as well as those with some basic experience in dyeing. All materials will be provided. Please bring an apron or wear clothes that can get dirty or stained with dye. Paper and pen for taking notes are also recommended.
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Class Full. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Lori Yankovitz (she/her)
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 10/14/2023 - 11/18/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: -2
In this 6-session introductory course, students will explore the basics of wheel throwing, including centering, opening the clay, and pulling up the walls to produce a cylinder. They will then learn a variety of ways to alter the cylinder to create different functional forms, play with texture and different surface treatments, and use slips and glazes. Complete beginners will get an introduction to the process while those who are more advanced will work on improving and solidifying their skills. Appropriate for all skill levels. No prior experience is required. Course includes clay, bisque and glaze firings. Please bring a towel and apron that can get dirty and enter through the Arbutus door in the alley behind the building.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates are not in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/15/2023 - 10/15/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/16/2023 - 10/16/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $195.00
Instructor: Cheryl Upshaw
Student Age: 13+ | Ages 10-12 welcome with a registered guardian.
Dates: 10/17/2023 - 11/7/2023
Times: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Days: Tu Sessions: 4
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 7
This is a class for students who have completed the Beginner Knitter course, and for anyone who is able to knit and purl comfortably without assistance. Confident beginners are welcome!
In four classes, students will knit an entire hat! You will learn how to knit in the round using circular needles, how to make "jogless" stripes, how to transfer your knitting from circular needles onto double-pointed needles, and how to finish your hat so that the ends are secure and invisible. The hat will be completed by the end of the course - perfect timing for the upcoming winter holiday season!
Note: Circular and double pointed needles will be provided for students to keep. Students will need to bring a darning needle and their purchased yarn to the first class. Be sure to read the instructor's Yarn Guide before going shopping. If you purchase your yarn at The Black Sheep Yarn Boutique or Our Local Yarn Shop, make sure to mention that the yarn is for an Arbutus class and receive a 10% discount.
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Fee: $130.00
Instructor: Amanda Hanson (she/her)
Student Age: 8-12
Dates: 10/18/2023 - 10/25/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 8
Sign up with your friends and design your own Halloween tealight luminaries in this fun 2 session course!
The instructor will demonstrate basic handbuilding and sculptural techniques, and students will learn how to use pinch pots to create a jack o' lantern, and slabs of clay to create a ghost. Students will then finish by decorating their masterpieces with underglazes. Parents may pick up once the pieces are fired in our kilns.
No prior experience is needed for this class. All necessary materials will be provided. Students should wear clothes that can get dirty or bring an apron, and a hand towel. Note that masks are required for the duration of class.
Please plan to arrive 5-10 mins before each class to sign your student(s) in. Students also need to be signed out before leaving.
For students enrolled with OASIS, this class may qualify as a CBI for your arts learning. Please contact us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org to make arrangements for your student.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/19/2023 - 10/19/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 10/21/2023 - 10/21/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Class is offsite, at instructor's studio.
Location: Blacksmith Studio
Max Class Size: 4
Capacity Remaining: 1
T his 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.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants are required. All tools and equipment will be provided. Class is held 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.
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Fee: $125.00
Instructor: Mary Van Cline (she/her)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/21/2023 - 10/22/2023
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Saturday, 10/21, from 10am-1pm, and Sunday, 10/22, from 2-5pm.
Location: Instructor's Studio
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 6
Explore glass as a medium and create a beautiful 8"x10" crystal iridescent glass leaves tealight, a perfect centerpiece for any table or gift for someone special!
In the first session of this kiln cast glass sculpture workshop, you will fill leaf-shaped molds with individual mosaic sized frit glass pieces. The colors of glass can be any combination of iridized clear crystal, ebony black, or champagne gold. The molds are then loaded into the glass kiln for a first firing. In the second session you will unload the glass leaves from the kiln, smooth the edges with a wet glass sander, and position them back into the kiln to be slump shaped. After a second firing, your tealight will be ready to take home!
This is a beginning level course. No experience is necessary. The basics of kiln casting and vocabulary terms will be presented, and students who complete the class will be eligible to participate in next-level glass classes with the instructor. All supplies are included. Please wear close toe shoes and long pants in the glass studios.
This workshop is taught by renowned glass artist, Mary Van Cline, and takes place at Glass-Studio.US, located in the New Kamilche area. Mary will email exact directions to all registered students prior to the start of the course. Your finished tealight can be picked up at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, the week after the course ends, during any of our Ceramics Open Studio hours: Sundays (9am-noon), Mondays (6-9pm), and Thursdays (2-5pm).
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/22/2023 - 10/22/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/23/2023 - 10/23/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Class Full. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.
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Fee: $90.00
Instructor: Francis Fong
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/25/2023 - 10/25/2023
Times: 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Days: W Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: -1
In this introductory woodworking class, you will develop basic woodworking skills while designing and crafting a custom cutting or serving board out of a single piece of maple wood.
You will learn to safely use the band saw, chop saw, routers, drill press, chisels, files/rasps, and finally sanders, to achieve a final smooth finish. By the end of the course, you will have a beautifully finished, multi-purpose board ready for use in your kitchen, as a charcuterie board, or as a unique gift!
Appropriate for beginner skill levels or anyone who would like to refresh their basic woodworking skills. All materials and tools will be provided. Final dimensions of board are approximately 21"x8"x1". Students may bring pen and paper to take notes, any preferred safety equipment (such as eye and hearing protection), and orbital sander from home, if desired. Students should dress comfortably, wear closed-toed shoes, tie up long hair, and avoid wearing dangling jewelry.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/26/2023 - 10/26/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Jeff Salazar
Student Age: 12+
Dates: 10/28/2023 - 10/29/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: 2
This is a 2-day workshop on the fundamentals of hardcover bookbinding using traditional case-binding methods and sewn signatures/booklets. Each student will learn how to bind books using equipment that is readily available and easy to replicate at home, while making an approximately 6inx9in personal journal. At the end of the course, students will have a Bookbinder's Essential Toolkit and the ability to bind books at home!
No prior knowledge is required. All materials will be provided, and you are encouraged to bring an apron and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. There will be time for lunch - please bring food (or check out nearby foodtrucks and restaurants!) and a water bottle.
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Fee: $150.00
Instructor: Mary Van Cline (she/her)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/28/2023 - 10/29/2023
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Saturday, 10/28, from 10am-2pm, and Sunday, 10/29, from 2-4pm.
Location: Instructor's Studio
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Create a one-of-a-kind life sized glass mask to liven up your home decor!
In this 2-session introductory kiln casting glass workshop, you will start with a pre-made plaster mold cast directly from a live model. You will then personalize your mask by carving the plaster to make additional reliefs and add any details you wish. After filling the masks with mosaic size glass frit, the plaster molds are loaded into glass kilns and fired. The colors of glass can be any combination of iridized clear crystal, ebony black, or champagne gold. In the second session, we will unload the glass masks, and sand rough edges on a wet glass sander, and your mask will be ready to take home!
All supplies are included. Please wear closed toe shoes and long pants in the glass studios.
This is a beginning kiln cast glass sculpture class. No prior experience is necessary. The basics of kiln casting using glass molds, firing glass, and vocabulary terms will be presented to enable students to advance to the next level glass class.
This workshop is taught by renowned glass artist, Mary Van Cline, and takes place at Glass-Studio.US, located right off Hwy 101N, just 10 minutes from Interstate 5/West Olympia in New Kamilche area. Mary will email exact directions to all registered students prior to the start of the course.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/29/2023 - 10/29/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 10/30/2023 - 10/30/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $310.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 18+
Dates: 11/1/2023 - 11/27/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Days: Su M Th Sessions: 12
NOVEBER 2023. Membership drop-in hours are on Monday evenings (6-9pm), Thursday afternoons (2-5pm), and Sunday mornings (9am-noon). Skips 11/23, Thanksgiving Day.
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Become a Ceramics Studio Member to enjoy drop-in studio access, personal storage space, and materials/firing credits at a flat monthly rate.
Membership is an excellent way to continue practicing your craft after completing a class. Likewise, studio membership will benefit artists by providing not only studio access, but a vibrant creative community. Members may use studio time to work on self-directed projects, with our experienced staff present to orient and support. In addition to the use of clay, glazes, equipment, and tools, a Monthly Ceramics Studio Membership includes 2 square feet of dedicated storage space per member and 9 hours of studio access per week for the purchased month. Membership also includes firing the equivalent of one kiln load/month. Additional firings beyond this are available to members for purchase. Registration for individual Open Studio sessions remains available here.
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Fee: $170.00
Instructor: Allie Robins (she/her)
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 11/1/2023 - 11/2/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: W Th Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at two different times on two consecutive days: Wednesday, 11/01, from 9am-2pm, and Thursday, 11/02, from 9am-noon.
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: 6
Learn woodworking basics, foundational to any project, while making a decorative rustic blanket ladder to beautifully display blankets, bath towels, or scarves.
This course is designed for beginners with little or no woodworking experience, and will include the following skill-building:
Project Conceptualization and Planning: How we turn an idea into a specific plan, ask the right questions before starting, and determine what we’ll need (wood, tools, supplies, etc.).
Wood Selection: Overview of different wood species, where to buy wood, how to select wood for different purposes, and wood movement/moisture.
Wood Preparation: Instruction on using hand and power tools to measure, mark, and cut. Students will learn safety basics for a power miter saw, and measure and cut their ladder rails and rungs to length.
Joinery: Overview of general joinery options in woodworking projects, including how to choose the best method for a project. Students will learn measuring and centering tips, as well as the basics of using a household drill and/or drill press to create mortises for the ladder rungs, then use wood glue and clamps to join components together.
Finishing: Overview of sanding and finishing options for any project (stains, oils, clear finishes, etc.). Students will learn sanding techniques and how to use a power sander if needed.
Time-permitting, students can choose to finish their ladder in the classroom (choosing from 2 water-based stains or pure mineral oil), or can take their ladder home with instructions for buying and applying their choice of stain, paint, or clearcoat finish. Our ladders will be made in a rustic style to embrace imperfection (including knots, dings, divots, and natural wood variations), but can be refined depending on student preference and time. This ladder is designed for decorative use only; do not use for climbing or allow children to play on/near ladder.
Appropriate for beginner skill levels or anyone who would like to refresh their basic woodworking skills. All materials and tools will be provided. Students may bring pen and paper to take notes, and any preferred safety equipment (such as glasses or hearing protection) or small tools from home, if desired. Students should wear closed-toed shoes and dress comfortably.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Eowyn Smith (she/her)
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 11/1/2023 - 12/13/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 6
Skips 11/22, Thanksgiving week
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 6

This beginner wheel throwing class will cover the basics of centering clay on the potter's wheel. The class will focus on throwing bowl and cylindrical forms, as well as trimming and attaching handles or adornments. There will be demonstrations of various surface techniques throughout, 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 I use to balance my body and soul and I hope to share that sentiment with you in this 6-week course," Eowyn shares. Appropriate for all skill levels. Please enter through the door in the alley behind the building. All materials, tools, and equipment will be provided. Students should bring their own towel and apron, and wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Eowyn Smith (she/her)
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 11/1/2023 - 12/13/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 6
Skips 11/22, Thanksgiving week
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 7

This is a great course for the continuing learner who would like to explore their stylistic voice and begin to create a body of work. In this Intermediate class students will have guidance and time to develop skills on the wheel and practice more advanced techniques like making lids and spouts, and combining forms with attachments. Appropriate for intermediate to advanced skill levels. All materials, including clay, tools, and equipment will be provided. Students should bring their own towel and apron.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $49.00
Instructor: Allie Robins (she/her)
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 11/1/2023 - 11/1/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: 1
Do you want to begin woodworking, but don't know where to start? This 3-hour beginner's course will give you an overview of the tools, materials, and knowledge needed to make a project with wood, covering the basics and providing resources for more in-depth skill-building. With a small class size, some of the course content will be tailored to the students' specific interests, such as your goal project(s), tools you already have or are considering, resources for building new skills, and other specific questions.
Topics covered:
- Tool overview: Which power tools, hand tools, and materials you may need (and don't need!) to get started
- Basic shop setup and considerations
- Quick overview of tool use (tailored to specific student interests)
- Planning a project: What to consider; limitations and risks
- Where and how to buy and select wood
- Basics of working with wood (hardness, movement, moisture, grain)
- Measuring and cutting basics
- Brief overview of joinery options (wood joints, fasteners, glues, dowels/biscuits, etc.) and how to choose
- Sanding basics
- Brief overview of finishing products and methods (stains, protective coats, etc.)
Appropriate for all skill levels. All necessary materials will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring a notebook/pen, and all your woodworking questions! You may also bring any small items or photos that you have questions about for projects you are considering. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/2/2023 - 11/2/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $140.00
Instructor: Joan Hoffmeyer
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/4/2023 - 11/5/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 2
In this beginner's level course, you will learn the parts of a rigid heddle loom and the importance each part plays in your weaving. You will be shown 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 will also discuss different weave structures and how color can impact your woven items.
For this self-striping scarf project, you will see the thrilling progression as the colors of yarn you have chosen develop to create a truly original scarf design.
Appropriate for all skill levels. No prior experience is required. Looms will be provided. Students will need to bring scissors, tape measure, a blunt tipped tapestry needle, and self-striping yarn. It is recommended that you purchase either one skein of Zauberball Crazy or two skeins of Berroco Sesame or any other self-striping yarn. The total yardage needed is approximately 440 yards. Yarns may be purchased at The Black Sheep Yarn Boutique or Our Local Yarn Shop. Make sure you mention the yarn is for a class at Arbutus to receive a 10% discount.
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Fee: $125.00
Instructor: Mary Van Cline (she/her)
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 11/4/2023 - 11/5/2023
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Saturday, 11/04, from 10am-1pm, and Sunday, 11/05, from 2-4pm.
Location: Instructor's Studio
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
In this two session workshop, you will press into clay plant specimens or flat objects brought from home or pick items at the glass studio site, to make a composition that only you can create. You will then remove the objects and pour a plaster mixture into the impressions. After cleaning the mold, we will fill the empty spaces with selected frit glass colors of iridescent crystal, ivory, or black, and fire in the glass kiln overnight to create a personalized 7” x 7” glass tile.
All glass materials and supplies are included. Please wear closed toe shoes and long pants in the glass studio. Note that working with plaster material requires a dust mask/N-95. You may bring one from home or use one provided by the instructor.
This is a beginning level course. No experience necessary. The basics of kiln casting and vocabulary terms will be presented, and students who complete the class will be eligible to participate in next-level glass classes with the instructor.
The classes takes place at Glass-Studio.US, located in the New Kamilche area. Mary will email exact directions to all registered students prior to the start of the course. Your finished botanical tile can be picked up at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, the week after the course ends, during any of our Ceramics Open Studio hours: Sundays (9am-noon), Mondays (6-9pm), and Thursdays (2-5pm).
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Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Wren Mattoon (they/them)
Student Age: 10-13
Dates: 11/5/2023 - 12/3/2023
Times: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 4
Skips 11/26, Thanksgiving weekend
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 8
This fun and personalized beginner's wheel throwing and handbuilding course is designed for youth to learn about the art and science of ceramics. With no judgement and no grades, students learn by doing, and follow their interests to design and create ceramic artwork.
The instructor will share demonstrations in wheel throwing, sculptural handbuilding, and slab building. Students will then practice and use these techniques to create at least two pieces to take home. Students are encouraged to complete at least one handbuilt piece and one piece on the wheel, and are then guided in glazing their work to achieve desired colors.
Appropriate for all skill levels, students brand new to the craft as well as those who have taken previous classes in ceramics are all welcome to join, and will receive individualized support in this small class setting. To ensure a positive experience for everyone, students will need to be able to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful and not overly distracting to other students, and to follow instructions to ensure their own safety as well as correct usage of the studio's tools and equipment.
All materials and tools will be provided, and course includes bisque and glaze firings. Students should wear clothes that can get dirty or bring an apron, a hand towel. Please plan to arrive 5-10 mins before each class to sign your student(s) in. Students also need to be signed out before leaving.
Note: Masks are encouraged for the duration of classes.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/6/2023 - 11/6/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Jane Stone
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/7/2023 - 12/12/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: Tu Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 3
This six session course is appropriate for students at all levels of experience who possess an interest in wheel thrown pottery. It is a great opportunity for beginners to learn the process by which a soft lump of clay is transformed into a finished ceramic piece. Advanced students will have the chance to expand their understanding of wheel thrown pottery, attempt new techniques, and develop their personal style. In addition to throwing, surface treatment methods like slip decoration and glazing techniques will be explored. A variety of pottery traditions will be addressed and discussed throughout the scope of the class. Appropriate for all skill levels. Course includes clay, and bisque and glaze firings. Please bring a towel and apron that can get dirty.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/9/2023 - 11/9/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $250.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 11/10/2023 - 11/11/2023
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Days: F Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Friday, 11/10, from 6-8:30pm, and Saturday, 11/11, from 8:30am-4:30pm.
Location: Larry Miller's Shop
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 3
In this 10 hour course spread over an evening and a full day, students will complete a spindle project (a wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student’s choice) and a small bowl, both of which they’ll take home after the class.
Friday evening will be devoted to safety, and lathe and tool orientation, followed by completion of the student’s choice of a spindle project. Saturday will be devoted to completing Friday’s project if needed, and completion of a small bowl, including finishing. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and go over different lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced cost.
Appropriate for all skill levels. All materials are included. A few days in advance of the class, the instructor will send an e-mail to all students containing a document on woodturning safety and techniques, directions to his shop, what to expect in the class, and what is appropriate attire for safety.
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Fee: $150.00
Instructor: Mary Van Cline (she/her)
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/11/2023 - 11/12/2023
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Saturday, 11/11, from 10am-1pm, and Sunday, 11/12, from 2-4pm.
Location: Instructor's Studio
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
This specially offered course covers the same technique as the Botanical Glass Tile course, but instead of using glass mosaic size frit, we will have available beautiful gold amber glass block billets. After being melted over the plaster mold impressions, it will result in the transparent viewing of your special botanical composition.
You will begin by pressing into clay plant specimens or flat objects brought from home or pick items at the glass studio site, to make a composition that only you can create. You will then remove the objects and pour a plaster mixture into the impressions. After cleaning the mold, we will fill the empty spaces with special gold amber glass block billets and fire in the glass kiln overnight to create a one of a kind 7” x 7” glass tile.
All glass materials and supplies are included. Please wear closed toe shoes and long pants in the glass studio. Note that working with plaster material requires a dust mask/N-95. You may bring one from home or use one provided by the instructor.
This is a beginning level course. No experience necessary. The basics of kiln casting and vocabulary terms will be presented, and students who complete the class will be eligible to participate in next-level glass classes with the instructor.
The classes takes place at Glass-Studio.US, located in the New Kamilche area. Mary will email exact directions to all registered students prior to the start of the course. Your finished botanical tile can be picked up at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, the week after the course ends, during any of our Ceramics Open Studio hours: Sundays (9am-noon), Mondays (6-9pm), and Thursdays (2-5pm).
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Fee: $55.00
Instructor: Amanda Hanson (she/her)
Student Age: See below
Dates: 11/11/2023 - 11/11/2023
Times: 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
This course is for Ages 8-12
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 8
In this class each student will make their own needle felt mushroom, complete with a wood stand. The emphasis will be on blending and layering colors of fiber to create a more natural looking sculpture.
This is an entry level project and no prior experience with felting is required. Students will learn about the process and science behind needle felting, and how to safely use special felting tools. All felting supplies will be provided to students, with take-home tools to continue needle-felting on your own!
Please check on the left for class age range. For the youth classes, please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the class is scheduled to begin to check your student in. Note that masks are required for the duration of the class.
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Fee: $55.00
Instructor: Amanda Hanson (she/her)
Student Age: See below
Dates: 11/11/2023 - 11/11/2023
Times: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
This course is for Ages 13+
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 8
Capacity Remaining: 8
In this class each student will make their own needle felt mushroom, complete with a wood stand. The emphasis will be on blending and layering colors of fiber to create a more natural looking sculpture.
This is an entry level project and no prior experience with felting is required. Students will learn about the process and science behind needle felting, and how to safely use special felting tools. All felting supplies will be provided to students, with take-home tools to continue needle-felting on your own!
Please check on the left for class age range. For the youth classes, please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the class is scheduled to begin to check your student in. Note that masks are required for the duration of the class.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/12/2023 - 11/12/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/13/2023 - 11/13/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $49.00
Instructor: Allie Robins (she/her)
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 11/15/2023 - 11/15/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: 3
Do you want to begin woodworking, but don't know where to start? This 3-hour beginner's course will give you an overview of the tools, materials, and knowledge needed to make a project with wood, covering the basics and providing resources for more in-depth skill-building. With a small class size, some of the course content will be tailored to the students' specific interests, such as your goal project(s), tools you already have or are considering, resources for building new skills, and other specific questions.
Topics covered:
- Tool overview: Which power tools, hand tools, and materials you may need (and don't need!) to get started
- Basic shop setup and considerations
- Quick overview of tool use (tailored to specific student interests)
- Planning a project: What to consider; limitations and risks
- Where and how to buy and select wood
- Basics of working with wood (hardness, movement, moisture, grain)
- Measuring and cutting basics
- Brief overview of joinery options (wood joints, fasteners, glues, dowels/biscuits, etc.) and how to choose
- Sanding basics
- Brief overview of finishing products and methods (stains, protective coats, etc.)
Appropriate for all skill levels. All necessary materials will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring a notebook/pen, and all your woodworking questions! You may also bring any small items or photos that you have questions about for projects you are considering. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/16/2023 - 11/16/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $315.00
Instructor: Ben Kahn
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/17/2023 - 11/19/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Su F Sa Sessions: 3
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 7
In this woodworking course led by guest artist and boat-builder Ben Kahn, students will learn how to shape a 2'×6' piece of wood into a canoe paddle.
Students will use an assortment of tools to shape the wood, including a bandsaw, block plane, spokeshave, spar gauge, draw knife, chisels, and rasps. Students will learn how to achieve an accurate layout and preserve their layout line for a high-quality and symmetrical paddle. This project can be tedious during some steps and requires the student to take their time. With patience the student will create a beautiful and useful paddle for boating. While it will certainly help to bring some woodworking experience, anyone will be able to follow the steps and create their own functional paddle.
Please wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes.
There will be a half hour break for lunch - please bring food and a water bottle.
This course is generously sponsored in part by the Port of Olympia. Thank you!
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Fee: $140.00
Instructor: Joan Hoffmeyer
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/18/2023 - 11/19/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 4
Using Berroco Pima Soft, students will wind on enough warp to weave up to 5 spa cloths. Using one color for the warp and a different color for the weft, you can be creative with your designs as you weave, and can choose to weave for a rolled hem or short fringe. The instructor will have samples of each so you may decide before you start weaving.
This cute set of spa cloths would be great for gift exchanges at work or stocking stuffers (it's never to early to start planning!) or make them all for yourself to enjoy!
This two day course is appropriate for confident beginners who have a basic knowledge of weaving and warping a loom.
Looms will be provided. Students will need to bring scissors, a tape measure, a blunt tipped tapestry needle, and yarn. You will need two skeins for the warp and one skein for the weft, for a total of approximately 350 yards of Berroco Pima Soft yarn in two colors ($8.50 per skein). Berroco Pima Soft may be purchased at The Black Sheep Yarn Boutique or Our Local Yarn Shop. Make sure you mention the yarn is for a class at Arbutus to receive a 10% discount.
Your instructor will also email you additional information closer to the start date.
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Class Full. Please click the "Add to Waitlist" button below.
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Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 11/18/2023 - 11/18/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Class is offsite, at instructor's studio.
Location: Blacksmith Studio
Max Class Size: 4
Capacity Remaining: 0
T his 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.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants are required. All tools and equipment will be provided. Class is held 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.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/19/2023 - 11/19/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $250.00
Instructor: Joelle Montez
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 11/20/2023 - 12/18/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 5
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 7
This 5-week holiday course will focus on students creating ceramic lanterns or luminaries. Using the potter's wheel, students will thrown a cylindrical form for the body of the lantern, then use incising and carving to cut away designs to allow light to shine through the form, projecting beautiful images onto the surroundings. Various design options will be taught including hanging lanterns and table-top lanterns. The lanterns can be used with a votive candle or an electric light to bring these forms to life.
If you are looking to make a thoughtful hand-made gift this season, for yourself or a loved one, these lanterns are perfect for setting a cozy holiday scene!
This course is appropriate for students who have taken a beginner's wheel throwing course or have experience centering on the wheel. All materials, including clay, tools, and equipment will be provided. Students should wear clothes that can get dirty and bring their own towel and apron, and sketchbook and pencil to draw lantern designs.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates aren’t in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/20/2023 - 11/20/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/27/2023 - 11/27/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $180.00
Instructor: Lara Tukarski
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 11/28/2023 - 12/5/2023
Times: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Days: Tu Sessions: 2
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 15
Capacity Remaining: 14
Join us for this new 2-part introductory series to learn about scrimshaw, a unique maritime art which encompasses the engraving of bone or ivory. Explore the origins and rich history of scrimshaw as a folk art with an emphasis on the materials and tools traditionally used. Discover the techniques by which contemporary scrimshaw is created, to include preparing the engraving surface, design work, and the engraving process. All materials used are legally sourced.
This class is suitable for the complete beginner. All levels of experience are welcome and all supplies will be provided. You may like to bring an apron or wear clothes that can get dirty. Participants will leave with a finished piece, engraving tool and ink, and practice materials to continue creating unique works of scrimshaw art at home.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 11/30/2023 - 11/30/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $290.00
Instructor: Lori Yankovitz (she/her)
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 12/1/2023 - 1/5/2024
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: F Sessions: 6
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 7
Capacity Remaining: 7
In this 6-session introductory course, students will explore the basics of wheel throwing, including centering, opening the clay, and pulling up the walls to produce a cylinder. They will then learn a variety of ways to alter the cylinder to create different functional forms, play with texture and different surface treatments, and use slips and glazes. Complete beginners will get an introduction to the process while those who are more advanced will work on improving and solidifying their skills. Appropriate for all skill levels. No prior experience is required. Course includes clay, bisque and glaze firings. Please bring a towel and apron that can get dirty and enter through the Arbutus door in the alley behind the building.
Note: Before registering for a series (a course which contains more than one class) students should make sure that individual class dates are not in conflict with their schedules because we cannot provide refunds or make-ups. Course payment is for the entire series and not individual classes within the series. If you do miss a class, let your instructor know, and they will be happy to answer your questions about what you may have missed.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/3/2023 - 12/3/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/3/2023 - 12/3/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/3/2023 - 12/3/2023
Times: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Days: Su Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $310.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 18+
Dates: 12/3/2023 - 12/31/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: Su M Th Sessions: 11
DECEMBER 2023. Membership drop-in hours are on Monday evenings (6-9pm), Thursday afternoons (2-5pm), and Sunday mornings (9am-noon). Skips December 24th & 25th.
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
Become a Ceramics Studio Member to enjoy drop-in studio access, personal storage space, and materials/firing credits at a flat monthly rate.
Membership is an excellent way to continue practicing your craft after completing a class. Likewise, studio membership will benefit artists by providing not only studio access, but a vibrant creative community. Members may use studio time to work on self-directed projects, with our experienced staff present to orient and support. In addition to the use of clay, glazes, equipment, and tools, a Monthly Ceramics Studio Membership includes 2 square feet of dedicated storage space per member and 9 hours of studio access per week for the purchased month. Membership also includes firing the equivalent of one kiln load/month. Additional firings beyond this are available to members for purchase. Registration for individual Open Studio sessions remains available here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/4/2023 - 12/4/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/7/2023 - 12/7/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $250.00
Instructor: Larry Miller
Student Age: 13+
Dates: 12/8/2023 - 12/9/2023
Times: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Days: F Sa Sessions: 2
Note that the course runs at different times on two consecutive days: Friday, 12/08, from 6-8:30pm, and Saturday, 12/09, from 8:30am-4:30pm.
Location: Larry Miller's Shop
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 3
In this 10 hour course spread over an evening and a full day, students will complete a spindle project (a wooden carving mallet, stirring spurtle, or garden dibble - student’s choice) and a small bowl, both of which they’ll take home after the class.
Friday evening will be devoted to safety, and lathe and tool orientation, followed by completion of the student’s choice of a spindle project. Saturday will be devoted to completing Friday’s project if needed, and completion of a small bowl, including finishing. For students interested in acquiring their own lathe or tools, the instructor will provide a catalog and go over different lathe options and tips on how to acquire equipment and tools at reduced cost.
Appropriate for all skill levels. All materials are included. A few days in advance of the class, the instructor will send an e-mail to all students containing a document on woodturning safety and techniques, directions to his shop, what to expect in the class, and what is appropriate attire for safety.
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Instructor: Kelly Thibodeaux
Student Age: 7+
Dates: 12/9/2023 - 12/9/2023
Times: 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 20
Capacity Remaining: 20
This is an amazing string-teaching program that allows youth and adults with no previous fiddling experience to acquire basic skills on the fiddle (violin) and to be able to solo perform a three-chord fiddle tune with guitar accompaniment. Additionally, participants will learn how to produce sound effects to musically illustrate a short folk story narrated by the instructor. Students will learn about the history and traditions of the fiddle in Louisiana Cajun culture, while learning basic musical concepts such as rhythm and dynamics.
This course is designed for families to participate together, adults and youth ages 7+. Fiddles are supplied for all students participating in the workshop.
Instructor Kelly Thibodeaux is a working musician from Louisiana with 25 years of experience sharing the Cajun Fiddle with students of all ages and skill levels.
Please register each family member intending to participate. There are 3 payment options shown below: $10, $25, and $40. Please add to cart the payment option needed. This sliding scale is offered in support of families with financial need thanks to the City of Olympia and community donors. Thank you!
Fee: $10.00
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Kelly Thibodeaux
Student Age: 12+
Dates: 12/9/2023 - 12/9/2023
Times: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 15
Capacity Remaining: 15
Bring your fiddle and have fun learning Louisiana Cajun traditional tunes!
Learn to play by ear two Louisiana Cajun two-step fiddle tunes with 'swamp rock' artist Kelly Thibodeaux. Tunes will be slowed down in segments to facilitate learning, and participants are encouraged to bring a recording device to record the session for later reference.
This workshop is suitable for intermediate and advanced musicians. Instructor Kelly Thibodeaux is a working musician from Louisiana with 25 years of experience teaching the Cajun Fiddle.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/11/2023 - 12/11/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $49.00
Instructor: Allie Robins (she/her)
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 12/13/2023 - 12/13/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: W Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 6
Capacity Remaining: 5
Do you want to begin woodworking, but don't know where to start? This 3-hour beginner's course will give you an overview of the tools, materials, and knowledge needed to make a project with wood, covering the basics and providing resources for more in-depth skill-building. With a small class size, some of the course content will be tailored to the students' specific interests, such as your goal project(s), tools you already have or are considering, resources for building new skills, and other specific questions.
Topics covered:
- Tool overview: Which power tools, hand tools, and materials you may need (and don't need!) to get started
- Basic shop setup and considerations
- Quick overview of tool use (tailored to specific student interests)
- Planning a project: What to consider; limitations and risks
- Where and how to buy and select wood
- Basics of working with wood (hardness, movement, moisture, grain)
- Measuring and cutting basics
- Brief overview of joinery options (wood joints, fasteners, glues, dowels/biscuits, etc.) and how to choose
- Sanding basics
- Brief overview of finishing products and methods (stains, protective coats, etc.)
Appropriate for all skill levels. All necessary materials will be provided. Students are encouraged to bring a notebook/pen, and all your woodworking questions! You may also bring any small items or photos that you have questions about for projects you are considering. Please wear closed-toe shoes.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/14/2023 - 12/14/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $140.00
Instructor: Joan Hoffmeyer
Student Age: 16+
Dates: 12/16/2023 - 12/17/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Days: Su Sa Sessions: 2
Saturday and Sunday
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 5
Capacity Remaining: 5
In this two day course, you will learn the parts of a rigid heddle loom and the importance each part plays in your weaving. You will be shown how to warp a loom and weave a towel. You will then learn hemstitching that holds woven yarn in place after the towel is removed from the loom. We will also discuss different weave structures and the impact of color in your woven items.
For this striped towel project, you will be using two or three different colors of cotton fiber. Each towel will be unique, depending on the colors that you choose and if you choose to weave with just one of the colors or using all colors, as in the sample. It is recommended that you purchase Berroco Pina 100 – one skein of each color. You may pick colors to match your kitchen or bathroom.
Appropriate for Beginner skill levels. Looms will be provided. Students will need to bring scissors, a tape measure, a tapestry needle, and three different colored skeins of either Berroco or Cascade Pima 100 cotton yarn, at approximately 220 yards per skein (average cost $25). The Black Sheep Yarn Boutique and Our Local Yarn Shop (OLYS) will give a 10% discount on these supplies if you mention your purchase is for a class at Arbutus. Please request the store to wind your yarn into cakes for you.
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Fee: $200.00
Instructor: Kelly Rigg
Student Age: 15+
Dates: 12/16/2023 - 12/16/2023
Times: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Days: Sa Sessions: 1
Class is offsite, at instructor's studio.
Location: Blacksmith Studio
Max Class Size: 4
Capacity Remaining: 2
T his 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.
Durable, close-toed shoes, and long pants are required. All tools and equipment will be provided. Class is held 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.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/18/2023 - 12/18/2023
Times: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Days: M Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
O ur community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here.
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/21/2023 - 12/21/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Fee: $40.00
Instructor: Elizabeth Mauro (they/them)
Student Age: 14+
Dates: 12/28/2023 - 12/28/2023
Times: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Days: Th Sessions: 1
Location: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Max Class Size: 10
Capacity Remaining: 10
 Our community Ceramics Open Studio sessions provide space for students to work on self-directed projects in handbuilding and wheel throwing. We encourage students to take advantage of this opportunity to supplement other courses or to work on self-guided projects. While instruction is not included in these sessions, our knowledgeable studio lead is there to answer questions and offer support. If you wish to complete a project, it is recommended you register for 2 or 3 consecutive classes. Registration fee includes 3 hours of studio use, all clay and glaze needed during your studio time, and kiln firing. Separate firing fees will continue to be charged for "outside" work. Appropriate for students who have the skills to work independently. Please note that our open studios are not meant;for production work. To purchase a full month of drop-in open studio access, click here
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Ages 16 and older
Woodshop By Appointment provides open studio time for self-directed projects. Students will need to bring their own wood to use, and should be proficient in the techniques required for their projects. While there is no instruction provided, a knowledgeable woodworking steward is on hand to orient students to the shop space and answer questions.
Woodshop By Appointment participants may use Arbutus's stock of hand tools, which includes, but is not limited, to work benches, chisels, hand planes, saws, sharpening stones, marking and measuring tools, and carving tools, or bring their own tools.
Students must complete a safety training session with the open shop facilitator to use the following equipment: miter saw, jointer, planer, and bandsaw. Safety training sessions are 15 minutes per machine and are billed as a part of the student's open shop time. Students who have previously completed our two-hour Woodshop Safety class in 2019 or more recently do not need to complete additional safety training sessions.
Students may choose from three set rates: $15 for up to 1 hour in the shop, $25 for 1-2 hours, and $35 for 2-3 hours. If you would like to book a Woodshop by Appointment session, please email us at info@arbutusfolkschool.org and our staff will connect you with a woodworking steward to arrange a time and date.
Appropriate for intermediate to advanced skill levels.
Class takes place at Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E, Olympia. Enter from the alley behind Arbutus building.
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Max Class Size: 6
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Minimum Class Size: 2
Capacity Remaining: 6
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Building: Arbutus Folk School, 610 4th Ave E
Room: Woodshop
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