Learning to crochet is a snap! Don't feel intimidated by the lovely creations that you see. You can learn to make them, too. Patricia will help you learn several different stitches as you make something beautiful for your home or a gift. Ages 8 and up.
Spinning, the ancient art of twisting fibers to make yarn or thread, still thrives today, and this workshop will show you how to bring its magic into your own creative practice. In this workshop, you will learn how to spin wool using spindles and a spinning wheel and hear stories and folklore about spinning while you practice. You will learn the basics of spinning, how to work with the properties of wool, and how to ply and finish the yarn you have spun. No experience is necessary.
Join artist Takeyce Walter for a hands-on plein air oil painting workshop that celebrates the stunning colors and landscapes on the banks of the Hudson River at the Adirondack Folk School. In this immersive class, you?ll explore the art of capturing nature from direct observation, learning techniques to translate the wildness and colors of the historic Hudson River onto canvas. Whether you're an experienced painter or just beginning, this workshop is designed to enhance your skills in composition, color mixing, and brushwork while engaging deeply with the environment around you. Takeyce will provide personalized instruction, demonstrating how to observe and capture light, shadow, and atmosphere to create dynamic and expressive works of art. Come prepared to paint outdoors, as we explore the majestic landscapes and shifting hues of the Hudson. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of plein air techniques and a completed painting that reflects your unique experience in the Adirondack wilderness. All skill levels are welcome. Bring your own painting materials and dress for the weather.
Everyone has a story to tell – what matters is how you tell it. In this four-part class, students will focus on the basics of the personal narrative – a story told in first person that relates the story teller’s own experience. Students will develop a five-minute (750-word) story from start to finish through in-class exercises and take-home assignments. They will learn how to mine their memories for story ideas, structure their thoughts for maximum effectiveness, and find the details that will bring their stories to life. At the conclusion of the course, students will be offered the opportunity to share their work in front of a live audience on a date to be determined by the class as a whole.
This class is taught by renowned instructor and the very first winner of History Channel's Forged in Fire, Matthew Parkinson. The chef's knife is the most used knife in almost any home. These iconic knives help to create meals for family and loved ones. Well-made kitchen knives can last a lifetime and this class will give you the opportunity to create one of your very own. In this two-day class students will make their own chef's knife from high carbon steel. All aspects of bladesmithing will be covered, from forging the blade to shaping, then heat treating, grinding and polishing, making and fitting a wooden handle and finally, sharpening - with very special attention given to the design and geometry of this kind of knife. This class is intended as an introductory bladesmithing class, but some forging experience is helpful.
This class is taught by renowned instructor and the very first winner of History Channel's Forged in Fire, Matthew Parkinson. The chef's knife is the most used knife in almost any home. These iconic knives help to create meals for family and loved ones. Well-made kitchen knives can last a lifetime and this class will give you the opportunity to create one of your very own. In this two-day class students will make their own chef's knife from high carbon steel. All aspects of bladesmithing will be covered, from forging the blade to shaping, then heat treating, grinding and polishing, making and fitting a wooden handle and finally, sharpening - with very special attention given to the design and geometry of this kind of knife. This class is intended as an introductory bladesmithing class, but some forging experience is helpful.
Students will build a keepsake box using a walnut frame and specimen wood, creating a gorgeous and distinctive piece great for gifting. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding, and creating finger joints will be covered.
This class is taught by renowned instructor and the very first winner of History Channel's Forged in Fire, Matthew Parkinson. The chef's knife is the most used knife in almost any home. These iconic knives help to create meals for family and loved ones. Well-made kitchen knives can last a lifetime and this class will give you the opportunity to create one of your very own. In this two-day class students will make their own chef's knife from high carbon steel. All aspects of bladesmithing will be covered, from forging the blade to shaping, then heat treating, grinding and polishing, making and fitting a wooden handle and finally, sharpening - with very special attention given to the design and geometry of this kind of knife. This class is intended as an introductory bladesmithing class, but some forging experience is helpful.
Using designs pulled directly from nature, we?ll be making hand painted leather earrings recreating animal prints native to the North Country. Students will select two different prints, then learn how to stamp patterns and apply dyes to leather. Additionally, we will add natural elements with ties to the region, such as pyrite and freshwater pearls. To complete the earrings, we?ll add sterling silver ear wires. Longest earring length is approximately 3".
This class is taught by renowned instructor and the very first winner of History Channel's Forged in Fire, Matthew Parkinson. The chef's knife is the most used knife in almost any home. These iconic knives help to create meals for family and loved ones. Well-made kitchen knives can last a lifetime and this class will give you the opportunity to create one of your very own. In this two-day class students will make their own chef's knife from high carbon steel. All aspects of bladesmithing will be covered, from forging the blade to shaping, then heat treating, grinding and polishing, making and fitting a wooden handle and finally, sharpening - with very special attention given to the design and geometry of this kind of knife. This class is intended as an introductory bladesmithing class, but some forging experience is helpful.
Students will build a keepsake box using a walnut frame and specimen wood, creating a gorgeous and distinctive piece great for gifting. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding, and creating finger joints will be covered.
When is the last time you tried something for the first time? If you?ve wanted to try your hand at one of the many crafts offered at AFS but you couldn?t decide what to try, this program is for you! This summer we are offering a four-day program for students ages 16+ that explores a new core craft each day including basketry, blacksmithing, weaving, and woodworking. Students will learn a new skill and create a new project every day! Please note: No a la carte registration for single day courses. Lodging and food is not provided. Day 1: Gathering Basket with Barbara Boughton This basket is woven on a pre-stained round oak base and employs continuous chase weave to build the sides. You will learn how to determine the number of spokes needed for continuous weave and watch your basket grow with two weavers. You will make your own leather handles which incorporate into the rim. Woven on a 6? base, this functional basket grows into a 12? diameter basket with 10? sides.
Day 2: Woven Towels with Janet Gallant One loom, one warp, so many possibilities! The looms are warped with a natural color and several towels can be woven on the loom. Several weaving patterns and design options will be demonstrated. Select your favorite pattern and colors and you'll be on your way to a few hand woven towels to keep or to share.
Day 3: Forged Leaf Keychain with Arnie Barsky This class is ideal for the beginner blacksmith with little to no experience. We'll explore basic techniques first then move on to forging leaves to create a decorative leaf keychain. Long pants (no nylon clothing) and closed-toe shoes are required. Leather gloves, eye and ear protection are provided; you may wish to bring your own for fit and comfort
Day 4: Wooden Keepsake Box with Larry Benjamin Using a walnut frame and specimen wood, you will create a gorgeous and distinctive piece for keeping your personal treasures safe. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding and creating finger joints will be covered.
When is the last time you tried something for the first time? If you?ve wanted to try your hand at one of the many crafts offered at AFS but you couldn?t decide what to try, this program is for you! This summer we are offering a four-day program for students ages 16+ that explores a new core craft each day including basketry, blacksmithing, weaving, and woodworking. Students will learn a new skill and create a new project every day! Please note: No a la carte registration for single day courses. Lodging and food is not provided. Day 1: Gathering Basket with Barbara Boughton This basket is woven on a pre-stained round oak base and employs continuous chase weave to build the sides. You will learn how to determine the number of spokes needed for continuous weave and watch your basket grow with two weavers. You will make your own leather handles which incorporate into the rim. Woven on a 6? base, this functional basket grows into a 12? diameter basket with 10? sides.
Day 2: Woven Towels with Janet Gallant One loom, one warp, so many possibilities! The looms are warped with a natural color and several towels can be woven on the loom. Several weaving patterns and design options will be demonstrated. Select your favorite pattern and colors and you'll be on your way to a few hand woven towels to keep or to share.
Day 3: Forged Leaf Keychain with Arnie Barsky This class is ideal for the beginner blacksmith with little to no experience. We'll explore basic techniques first then move on to forging leaves to create a decorative leaf keychain. Long pants (no nylon clothing) and closed-toe shoes are required. Leather gloves, eye and ear protection are provided; you may wish to bring your own for fit and comfort
Day 4: Wooden Keepsake Box with Larry Benjamin Using a walnut frame and specimen wood, you will create a gorgeous and distinctive piece for keeping your personal treasures safe. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding and creating finger joints will be covered.
This course explores the three-act story structure in greater detail and focuses on how to turn a short personal narrative or another story idea into a full-length screenplay/play, novel, or memoir. In this four week class, students with learn the techniques necessary to create multi- dimensional characters, develop a compelling plot, and identify the themes that will tie the elements of their story together. Students will leave with the tools they need to begin a first draft or revise an existing one. Course Prerequisite: How to Tell a Story Pt. 1 or instructor permission.
When is the last time you tried something for the first time? If you?ve wanted to try your hand at one of the many crafts offered at AFS but you couldn?t decide what to try, this program is for you! This summer we are offering a four-day program for students ages 16+ that explores a new core craft each day including basketry, blacksmithing, weaving, and woodworking. Students will learn a new skill and create a new project every day! Please note: No a la carte registration for single day courses. Lodging and food is not provided. Day 1: Gathering Basket with Barbara Boughton This basket is woven on a pre-stained round oak base and employs continuous chase weave to build the sides. You will learn how to determine the number of spokes needed for continuous weave and watch your basket grow with two weavers. You will make your own leather handles which incorporate into the rim. Woven on a 6? base, this functional basket grows into a 12? diameter basket with 10? sides.
Day 2: Woven Towels with Janet Gallant One loom, one warp, so many possibilities! The looms are warped with a natural color and several towels can be woven on the loom. Several weaving patterns and design options will be demonstrated. Select your favorite pattern and colors and you'll be on your way to a few hand woven towels to keep or to share.
Day 3: Forged Leaf Keychain with Arnie Barsky This class is ideal for the beginner blacksmith with little to no experience. We'll explore basic techniques first then move on to forging leaves to create a decorative leaf keychain. Long pants (no nylon clothing) and closed-toe shoes are required. Leather gloves, eye and ear protection are provided; you may wish to bring your own for fit and comfort
Day 4: Wooden Keepsake Box with Larry Benjamin Using a walnut frame and specimen wood, you will create a gorgeous and distinctive piece for keeping your personal treasures safe. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding and creating finger joints will be covered.
When is the last time you tried something for the first time? If you?ve wanted to try your hand at one of the many crafts offered at AFS but you couldn?t decide what to try, this program is for you! This summer we are offering a four-day program for students ages 16+ that explores a new core craft each day including basketry, blacksmithing, weaving, and woodworking. Students will learn a new skill and create a new project every day! Please note: No a la carte registration for single day courses. Lodging and food is not provided. Day 1: Gathering Basket with Barbara Boughton This basket is woven on a pre-stained round oak base and employs continuous chase weave to build the sides. You will learn how to determine the number of spokes needed for continuous weave and watch your basket grow with two weavers. You will make your own leather handles which incorporate into the rim. Woven on a 6? base, this functional basket grows into a 12? diameter basket with 10? sides.
Day 2: Woven Towels with Janet Gallant One loom, one warp, so many possibilities! The looms are warped with a natural color and several towels can be woven on the loom. Several weaving patterns and design options will be demonstrated. Select your favorite pattern and colors and you'll be on your way to a few hand woven towels to keep or to share.
Day 3: Forged Leaf Keychain with Arnie Barsky This class is ideal for the beginner blacksmith with little to no experience. We'll explore basic techniques first then move on to forging leaves to create a decorative leaf keychain. Long pants (no nylon clothing) and closed-toe shoes are required. Leather gloves, eye and ear protection are provided; you may wish to bring your own for fit and comfort
Day 4: Wooden Keepsake Box with Larry Benjamin Using a walnut frame and specimen wood, you will create a gorgeous and distinctive piece for keeping your personal treasures safe. Woodworking techniques such as cutting, sanding and creating finger joints will be covered.
Come build a Paraguayan harp. This harp is characterized by a large soundbox with a rounded base, very light weight, closely-spaced light tension strings (usually nylon), a relatively flat harmonic curve, and with the strings running up through the center of the neck, which are tuned with gear-style tuners (like a guitar). Almost all harps of this style are played with the fingernails, in very rhythmically intricate music. This is the national instrument of Paraguay, and is commonly found throughout South America, Central America and in parts of Mexico. Students will be using tools from the past and today, to fashion an instrument that will last a lifetime. After this class you may even want to learn to play your beautiful new harp!
For those with no previous carving experience, this course will cover design and layout to embellish your knives. Will discus choosing the proper tools used in the carving of bone, wood and steel. Both hand and affordable power tools will be used. Each student will carve a simple but attractive geometric design and develop that into more complex designs.
This course is a great place to learn the basics of field navigation. This class will take place indoors with a few outdoor activities; participants should come dressed for the weather. We will discuss map interpretation, compass use, declination, how to follow bearings to confidently traverse a landscape. No previous experience is required.
For those with no previous carving experience, this course will cover design and layout to embellish your knives. Will discus choosing the proper tools used in the carving of bone, wood and steel. Both hand and affordable power tools will be used. Each student will carve a simple but attractive geometric design and develop that into more complex designs.
Come build a Paraguayan harp. This harp is characterized by a large soundbox with a rounded base, very light weight, closely-spaced light tension strings (usually nylon), a relatively flat harmonic curve, and with the strings running up through the center of the neck, which are tuned with gear-style tuners (like a guitar). Almost all harps of this style are played with the fingernails, in very rhythmically intricate music. This is the national instrument of Paraguay, and is commonly found throughout South America, Central America and in parts of Mexico. Students will be using tools from the past and today, to fashion an instrument that will last a lifetime. After this class you may even want to learn to play your beautiful new harp!
Learn to weave on a floor loom. With instruction and hands on experience, you will perform each step of the process - winding a warp, dressing a loom, and weaving a cotton towel to take home and use for years to come.
A great class for parent/child or grandparent/grandchild pairs. One partner will weave the Survival bowl, the other, a Mini Survival Bowl. Both baskets start with a solid wood base with spokes pre-glued making them ready for students to start weaving. Students will learn to twine with paracord as they weave with concentration on shaping, and then learn to fit and scarf a rim, add rim filler and lash onto basket. Linda will teach you all the techniques to make your survival bowl. The Mini Bowl is a cute little basket, and a great introductory basket to weaving with paracord and learning a matchstick rim. It is a simple weave concentrating on shape. The rim is a basic matchstick rim making a great accent to this little basket. There will be a selection of colors to choose from. Dimensions: 7? top diameter x 2 3/8? high. Mini: 4 1/2? diameter x 2 1/4? high.
Birch bark picture frames and mirrors have adorned Adirondack camps and cabins for centuries and were a favorite winter project for the guides to make. This is a great class for beginners with limited experience with woodworking and tools. You will select a frame and learn how to cut and fasten the Birch bark, twigs and other natural objects to create your own 'masterpiece'. Come see why this is one of our most popular classes. You'll be proud to hang this in your home!
Learn to weave on a floor loom. With instruction and hands on experience, you will perform each step of the process - winding a warp, dressing a loom, and weaving a cotton towel to take home and use for years to come.
Birch bark picture frames and mirrors have adorned Adirondack camps and cabins for centuries and were a favorite winter project for the guides to make. This is a great class for beginners with limited experience with woodworking and tools. You will select a frame and learn how to cut and fasten the Birch bark, twigs and other natural objects to create your own 'masterpiece'. Come see why this is one of our most popular classes. You'll be proud to hang this in your home!
This handy tote designed by Linda for her new handle idea. Students weave a plain weave base with the pre-cut spokes. The pattern up the sides is simple, all natural reed with paracord and ribbon accent. The ribbon is supported with an ash or maple weaving strip. A basic rim with paracord accent filler. The webbing handle for easy carry two ways that students will learn how to make. There will be a selection of ribbon, paracord and webbing colors for students to make it their own. Dimensions: 4.5? x 11? x 8? high.
AFS UFO Studio, formerly known as Sewing Circle, is an out of this world opportunity for fiber artists to come and complete the UnFinished Objects floating around their home. UFO Studio is free to attend, and though it is non-instructional, peer-to-peer help is always available. All forms of projects are welcome ? bring your unfinished weaving, sewing, embroidery, rug hooking, knitting, crocheting, felting, or any other project that involves fiber handwork. AFS has a couple of sewing machines, small looms, and hand tools available but please feel free to bring your own!
This course explores the three-act story structure in greater detail and focuses on how to turn a short personal narrative or another story idea into a full-length screenplay/play, novel, or memoir. In this four week class, students with learn the techniques necessary to create multi- dimensional characters, develop a compelling plot, and identify the themes that will tie the elements of their story together. Students will leave with the tools they need to begin a first draft or revise an existing one. Course Prerequisite: How to Tell a Story Pt. 1 or instructor permission.
The Adirondack Pack Basket is one of the most recognized objects associated with the Adirondacks. Create your own pack basket patterned from the traditional Adirondack Pack Baskets. Adults and children can wear this pack. Students will weave a plain weave base with the pre-cut spokes. Then learn to continuous weave the sides of the basket, pack tight, level the top, weave a false rim, cut, and tuck, insert the wood handle, fit the rim and lash on basket. Lastly, add an adjustable webbing or leather harness secured with wood skids. This class will be fun for all weavers. This is a great intro size pack to making pack baskets. Linda will demonstrate, teach you weaving techniques and guide you while you weave your basket. Students will be using a drawknife and other sharp tools. Instructor will bring all materials to make the basket. Baskets will not be stained during class. Dimensions are 6"" x 9"" x 14"" high.
Learn to weave on a floor loom. With instruction and hands on experience, you will perform each step of the process - winding a warp, dressing a loom, and weaving a cotton towel to take home and use for years to come.
The Adirondack Pack Basket is one of the most recognized objects associated with the Adirondacks. Create your own pack basket patterned from the traditional Adirondack Pack Baskets. Adults and children can wear this pack. Students will weave a plain weave base with the pre-cut spokes. Then learn to continuous weave the sides of the basket, pack tight, level the top, weave a false rim, cut, and tuck, insert the wood handle, fit the rim and lash on basket. Lastly, add an adjustable webbing or leather harness secured with wood skids. This class will be fun for all weavers. This is a great intro size pack to making pack baskets. Linda will demonstrate, teach you weaving techniques and guide you while you weave your basket. Students will be using a drawknife and other sharp tools. Instructor will bring all materials to make the basket. Baskets will not be stained during class. Dimensions are 6"" x 9"" x 14"" high.
Learn to weave on a floor loom. With instruction and hands on experience, you will perform each step of the process - winding a warp, dressing a loom, and weaving a cotton towel to take home and use for years to come.
Create your own pine branch wall hanging with vines, leaves, and pinecones. Different size pipe will be pounded and textured on an anvil to make the branches and vines. The leaves and cones will be made from sheet copper, then textured. This class will also involve some soldering. The finished piece will be approximately 25" by 17".
Let the everyday slip away on this imaginative walk along the River Trail of the Adirondack Folk School. Drawing from Celtic lore, we'll weave a tale about Fairies, while connecting the dots between the Faerie folk of Ireland and the Adirondacks. We'll start with creating a house out of natural objects, both provided and found, for the Fairies of the Forest and end with sitting around the fire listening to the stories of the Fairy Tree Trail of Ardgillan Castle in Ireland, the Cottingley Fairies of England, and an Adirondack Poem or two on the Faerie realm. Enchanted tea and Fairy Bread will be served.
The National Curriculum offers a step-by-step progression through three levels of fundamental blacksmithing skills. Certification signifies that a smith has demonstrated mastery of a specific set of skills, increasing in complexity with each level: Level I (beginner), Level II (intermediate), Level III (advanced). Level I is the first level of the curriculum and is designed as a guide through beginning blacksmithing techniques. Starting with safety, Level I then moves into core skills and techniques, including tapering, bending, forging and heat-treating hand tools, punching and drifting, basic blacksmithing math, forging to dimension, forge-welding, and creating tenons. It culminates in a final project, the Gate Latch, designed to test the student on these skills. Upon completion of Level I, students will have confidence in the most essential blacksmithing skills and be able to forge a wide variety of projects. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation within the craft. To earn certification, the student needs to successfully complete the projects and techniques as outlined in the checklist in the Level I Student Packet. This is found on the website abana.org The checklist allows students and instructors to keep track of progress. ABANA will accept the recommendation from an Affiliate?s Education Program Chair or the judgment of a Certified Level I Instructor that qualifies a student as having passed Level I.
Learn the discipline of Metal Working known as Embossing. Students will transfer an image of their choosing from a paper template to a sheet of copper by using various sizes of stylus and other hand tools to create a textured picture. Students will find that copper is a very workable material. Your finished piece will fit in with any Adirondack decor or even in a rustic birch frame! This piece is 8" x 8".
Get an early start on holiday gift giving. Make pinecone flowers, use natural mosses and twigs to decorate a small keepsake box and one small frame. Add your own photo for a special gift or family keepsake.
The National Curriculum offers a step-by-step progression through three levels of fundamental blacksmithing skills. Certification signifies that a smith has demonstrated mastery of a specific set of skills, increasing in complexity with each level: Level I (beginner), Level II (intermediate), Level III (advanced). Level I is the first level of the curriculum and is designed as a guide through beginning blacksmithing techniques. Starting with safety, Level I then moves into core skills and techniques, including tapering, bending, forging and heat-treating hand tools, punching and drifting, basic blacksmithing math, forging to dimension, forge-welding, and creating tenons. It culminates in a final project, the Gate Latch, designed to test the student on these skills. Upon completion of Level I, students will have confidence in the most essential blacksmithing skills and be able to forge a wide variety of projects. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation within the craft. To earn certification, the student needs to successfully complete the projects and techniques as outlined in the checklist in the Level I Student Packet. This is found on the website abana.org The checklist allows students and instructors to keep track of progress. ABANA will accept the recommendation from an Affiliate?s Education Program Chair or the judgment of a Certified Level I Instructor that qualifies a student as having passed Level I.
Anyone can learn to make a rustic birdhouse in just a few hours. A birdhouse is a simple structure with seven basic parts: two sides, a front and back, a bottom, and two pieces for the top. Power tools are not necessary to cut the wood; it can be done with a handsaw. Using rough-cut lumber, you will construct a rustic birdhouse that can be functional and/or decorative. Choose from several birdhouse designs. There will be a short discussion about nesting birds, feeding birds and suitable houses for area birds. Participants are encouraged to bring objects (such as old drawer pulls, doorknobs, hardware, etc.) from home. Adults and teens welcome; children ages 10-14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Weave a splint seat onto a hardwood stool using natural or smoked flat reed. A variety of designs will be available to choose from. This class is an introduction to splint weaving, with several pattern options, using both natural and smoked reeds.
The National Curriculum offers a step-by-step progression through three levels of fundamental blacksmithing skills. Certification signifies that a smith has demonstrated mastery of a specific set of skills, increasing in complexity with each level: Level I (beginner), Level II (intermediate), Level III (advanced). Level I is the first level of the curriculum and is designed as a guide through beginning blacksmithing techniques. Starting with safety, Level I then moves into core skills and techniques, including tapering, bending, forging and heat-treating hand tools, punching and drifting, basic blacksmithing math, forging to dimension, forge-welding, and creating tenons. It culminates in a final project, the Gate Latch, designed to test the student on these skills. Upon completion of Level I, students will have confidence in the most essential blacksmithing skills and be able to forge a wide variety of projects. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation within the craft. To earn certification, the student needs to successfully complete the projects and techniques as outlined in the checklist in the Level I Student Packet. This is found on the website abana.org The checklist allows students and instructors to keep track of progress. ABANA will accept the recommendation from an Affiliate?s Education Program Chair or the judgment of a Certified Level I Instructor that qualifies a student as having passed Level I.
Learn how to make your very own personal hiking stick. Begin by selecting the perfect stick collected by the instructor. Then you will learn how to shave and carve your hiking stick. Once you are happy with your creation, the sticks will be completed by drilling a hole in them and adding a lanyard. Once finished, put your stick to good use on the trail running right by our school!
No weaving experience is necessary! The looms are dressed and ready to go, all you need to do is bring your creative spirit and to leave with a finished one-of-a-kind rug. Students will have a choice of making a traditional Rag Rug using recycled fabric strips or making a Sock Rug using remnants from a sock factory. Colors and choices of fabric and remnants vary from class to class depending on availability. The rugs are 24" wide, and up to 45" long.
Goat milk soap is excellent for people with dry, irritated or sensitive skin. It is loaded with nutrients, proteins, fat, calcium and vitamins. It is an excellent natural moisturizer that helps hydrate, nourish and revitalize skin. We will discuss natural dyes and additives which you may wish to incorporate in your soap. You will be making a pound of soap to take home.
Come join us in the making of your very own handmade Backpacker guitar. Drawing from over 35 years of instrument making, Martin Macica will share his knowledge of the principles and practice of guitar making, leading participants through the process of making their own versatile backpacker guitar. Participants will leave the class with a working knowledge of guitar making and a handcrafted instrument ready for years of making music while traveling and adventuring.
Create a colorful summer scarf with ribbons and yarn. Bring along ribbon yarns and solid yarns of cotton or cotton blends in some of your favorite colors. Mix them with yarns and ribbons provided by the instructor and create a scar uniquely yours. You will create the scarf as you warp the Cricket loom. The Rigid Heddle Weaving from the Start class is recommended but not required.
The National Curriculum offers a step-by-step progression through three levels of fundamental blacksmithing skills. Certification signifies that a smith has demonstrated mastery of a specific set of skills, increasing in complexity with each level: Level I (beginner), Level II (intermediate), Level III (advanced). Level I is the first level of the curriculum and is designed as a guide through beginning blacksmithing techniques. Starting with safety, Level I then moves into core skills and techniques, including tapering, bending, forging and heat-treating hand tools, punching and drifting, basic blacksmithing math, forging to dimension, forge-welding, and creating tenons. It culminates in a final project, the Gate Latch, designed to test the student on these skills. Upon completion of Level I, students will have confidence in the most essential blacksmithing skills and be able to forge a wide variety of projects. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation within the craft. To earn certification, the student needs to successfully complete the projects and techniques as outlined in the checklist in the Level I Student Packet. This is found on the website abana.org The checklist allows students and instructors to keep track of progress. ABANA will accept the recommendation from an Affiliate?s Education Program Chair or the judgment of a Certified Level I Instructor that qualifies a student as having passed Level I.
Create a colorful summer scarf with ribbons and yarn. Bring along ribbon yarns and solid yarns of cotton or cotton blends in some of your favorite colors. Mix them with yarns and ribbons provided by the instructor and create a scar uniquely yours. You will create the scarf as you warp the Cricket loom. The Rigid Heddle Weaving from the Start class is recommended but not required.
Come join us in the making of your very own handmade Backpacker guitar. Drawing from over 35 years of instrument making, Martin Macica will share his knowledge of the principles and practice of guitar making, leading participants through the process of making their own versatile backpacker guitar. Participants will leave the class with a working knowledge of guitar making and a handcrafted instrument ready for years of making music while traveling and adventuring.
This course explores the three-act story structure in greater detail and focuses on how to turn a short personal narrative or another story idea into a full-length screenplay/play, novel, or memoir. In this four week class, students with learn the techniques necessary to create multi- dimensional characters, develop a compelling plot, and identify the themes that will tie the elements of their story together. Students will leave with the tools they need to begin a first draft or revise an existing one. Course Prerequisite: How to Tell a Story Pt. 1 or instructor permission.
Come join us in the making of your very own handmade Backpacker guitar. Drawing from over 35 years of instrument making, Martin Macica will share his knowledge of the principles and practice of guitar making, leading participants through the process of making their own versatile backpacker guitar. Participants will leave the class with a working knowledge of guitar making and a handcrafted instrument ready for years of making music while traveling and adventuring.
In this class students will create a stained glass mosaic in an 8" x 10" frame. Students will have a choice of photographs to work with, or may bring their own if desired. Students will be instructed on how to grout their piece, which is recommended but not required. This class is suitable for students of any level.
Interested in blacksmithing but unsure how to start? Open Forge Night is the place for you! Every third Wednesday of the month during our blacksmithing season, come see demonstrations by expert blacksmith Steve Gurzler. Observing the demonstration is free and open to the public. If you want to try your hand at blacksmithing there is a $25 fee to cover the cost of materials. Safety precautions must be followed - including hard shoes with no open toes, long pants, goggles (supplied) and gloves (supplied).
Come join us in the making of your very own handmade Backpacker guitar. Drawing from over 35 years of instrument making, Martin Macica will share his knowledge of the principles and practice of guitar making, leading participants through the process of making their own versatile backpacker guitar. Participants will leave the class with a working knowledge of guitar making and a handcrafted instrument ready for years of making music while traveling and adventuring.
Come join us in the making of your very own handmade Backpacker guitar. Drawing from over 35 years of instrument making, Martin Macica will share his knowledge of the principles and practice of guitar making, leading participants through the process of making their own versatile backpacker guitar. Participants will leave the class with a working knowledge of guitar making and a handcrafted instrument ready for years of making music while traveling and adventuring.
This course will introduce students to the traditional craft of chip carving - a type of woodcarving in which a small knife is used to incise decorative floral and geometric designs into basswood or butternut. The design is created by the removal of small pieces (chips) of the wood. Chip carving is an ancient, traditional craft. Chip carved plates, jewelry and keepsake boxes, trays, breadboards, furniture and other items can make wonderful gifts and also decorate the home with traditional motifs. Some previous carving experience is helpful, but not necessary. Students will learn to carve a variety of practice designs already drawn on a board and may complete a round ornament as well.
This intricate basket is woven on a wooden base using dyed and natural reed. Students choose from a plain weave or twill, and will learn about shaping and how to work efficiently as they weave. While continuing up the sides, twining the woven accents will give the lattice a unique, airy look.
In this course, using a Damascus billet you have previously forged or can purchase in this course, students will forge a full tang style EDC knife. Students will heat treat and bevel their knives in preparation for fitting the handle. We will discuss and implement etching processes to reveal the beautiful pattern welded steel., then finish the handle making an eye catching and functional tool. I this course we will discuss in detail forging processes, grinding techniques, fit & finish and etching procedures.
Taught by Sheila Flanagan and Sal Speights, both internationally awarded cheesemakers, known for creative semi-aged cheeses, this course will focus on all the simplest aspects of cheesemaking and the vast variety of cheeses that can be made based on different cultures, rennets, additives and mechanical processing methods. Students will learn how to make bloomy rind cheeses, age, and inoculate them and how to add variations to their cheese. Please note: Students will check in at the Folk School, 51 Main Street, Lake Luzerne, NY. They will then travel to Nettle Meadow's Plant/Tasting Room 1256 Lake Ave., Lake Luzerne, NY for the duration of the class.
In this course, using a Damascus billet you have previously forged or can purchase in this course, students will forge a full tang style EDC knife. Students will heat treat and bevel their knives in preparation for fitting the handle. We will discuss and implement etching processes to reveal the beautiful pattern welded steel., then finish the handle making an eye catching and functional tool. I this course we will discuss in detail forging processes, grinding techniques, fit & finish and etching procedures.
The student is truly the designer in this basket weaving class. Students will be given the spokes - some dyed and some natural - and customize where they would like to place them to create a distinct design. A custom, wood turned handle is added, and the basket is lashed with wax linen to complete the look. This is a great basket for your kitchen, garden, or craft room!
This course will introduce students to the traditional craft of chip carving - a type of woodcarving in which a small knife is used to incise decorative floral and geometric designs into basswood or butternut. The design is created by the removal of small pieces (chips) of the wood. Chip carving is an ancient, traditional craft. Chip carved plates, jewelry and keepsake boxes, trays, breadboards, furniture and other items can make wonderful gifts and also decorate the home with traditional motifs. Some previous carving experience is helpful, but not necessary. Students will learn to carve a variety of practice designs already drawn on a board and may complete a round ornament as well.
Come create a simple turned bowl that still looks and feels rustic due to its live edge. This course is targeted to those who have an interest in learning how to turn. The emphasis will be on learning how to use a lathe and tools safely and correctly. In this class, you will learn the basics of creating spindle-based objects and then work at turning your bowl. Leave the class with a lovely treasure that captures the "wild" feel of the Adirondacks!
Use your quilting skills to create a chair organizer and never hunt for your glasses or remote again.
Use your quilting skills to create a chair organizer and never hunt for your glasses or remote again.
This course explores the three-act story structure in greater detail and focuses on how to turn a short personal narrative or another story idea into a full-length screenplay/play, novel, or memoir. In this four week class, students with learn the techniques necessary to create multi- dimensional characters, develop a compelling plot, and identify the themes that will tie the elements of their story together. Students will leave with the tools they need to begin a first draft or revise an existing one. Course Prerequisite: How to Tell a Story Pt. 1 or instructor permission.
Explore the many ways that you can use silver in a metal clay formulation to create jewelry designs of your own. The newest way of working with silver is metal clay which can be shaped like clay to produce uniquely textured surfaces, resulting in durable beautiful silver jewelry. Students will learn metal clay working techniques and make pendants, earrings, charms and rings. Fresh leaves will also be used to create a silver piece of nature. The class will also cover techniques for setting and firing stones directly in metal clay. Each student will leave with at least four finished pieces of jewelry. No previous experience necessary.
In this class you will use pure silver metal clay to make a variety of hollow beads - some using combustible core substances but most without any core material at all. The materials provided for the class will be sufficient to allow you to experiment with several types of beads, and additional metal clay will be available for purchase if desired. The number of beads made will depend on the size and type of beads as well as the complexity of the forms. All will be done and ready to wear by the end of the day! This class is ideal for people who have been making beaded jewelry and have wanted to add some beads that they have made themselves.
In this class students will create a beautiful copper bowl from a 12" x 12" sheet of 16-gauge copper. Students will pound and hand tool the sheet into an 9" diameter, approx. 2" deep bowl. Students will also make a decorative vine with leaves from copper that will be attached to the rim of the bowl. Some soldering will be involved in this class.
Taught by renowned instructor and winner of the History Channel?s Forged in Fire, Mace Vitale. The Bowie Knife is America?s most famous knife, steeped in history and legend. In this five-day class, students learn the ins and outs of forging, grinding and heat treating this iconic blade. Once the blades are complete, students will create a guard and handle using steel and wood. Attention will be paid to the feel and balance of these knives, as well as the edge geometry and performance.
If you've taken Taste of the Forge or another basic blacksmithing class at AFS, then you're ready for Taste of the Forge II! This class, taught by blacksmith Steve Gurzler, builds on the students' prior experience to bring them to the next level, pursuing more advanced skills. Like in Taste of the Forge, we will follow the Artist Blacksmiths Association of North America (ABANA) curriculum in a small class format. Students can expect to create 2 or more useful or decorative objects over the course of 3 weekday evenings.
Taught by renowned instructor and winner of the History Channel?s Forged in Fire, Mace Vitale. The Bowie Knife is America?s most famous knife, steeped in history and legend. In this five-day class, students learn the ins and outs of forging, grinding and heat treating this iconic blade. Once the blades are complete, students will create a guard and handle using steel and wood. Attention will be paid to the feel and balance of these knives, as well as the edge geometry and performance.
Taught by renowned instructor and winner of the History Channel?s Forged in Fire, Mace Vitale. The Bowie Knife is America?s most famous knife, steeped in history and legend. In this five-day class, students learn the ins and outs of forging, grinding and heat treating this iconic blade. Once the blades are complete, students will create a guard and handle using steel and wood. Attention will be paid to the feel and balance of these knives, as well as the edge geometry and performance.
We will be making valet trays from leather and hair-on cowhide. Students will learn how to use various leathercraft tools and techniques including, but not limited to, cutting, edge beveling and burnishing, grooving, setting hardware, and letter stamping. There will be two tray styles to select from, as well as leather color, cowhide pattern, and hardware finish for students to make their very own one of a kind, heirloom quality piece to hold all of their essentials. Overall finished size is 7 3/4" x 7 3/4"
In days gone by, it was common practice for people living in wild places to tend the land which provided them with food, medicine, and shelter. It was a daily exchange of life between human and the natural world. In this introductory series, we will explore the natural world and discover ways to more fully engage with her as she moves through each of the four seasons. In each class we will: create an outdoor (temporary) medicine wheel in order to deepen our understanding of the cyclical nature of all life: plants, people, animal/insect. We will also engage with/forage the plants which are available to us as we seasonally and learn how to transform what they have to offer into something we can use, aka beneficial preparations. This class will be balanced with time outdoors for Wild Tending and indoors for hands-on practice of preparation techniques and extraction methods. Each class stands on it's own. Together they create a synergy of seasonal attunement aligning your wild nature with the natural world around you.
