Creative Art Classes for adults, kidsm, tweens and teens. Art Supplies. Weaving Classes, Looms and supplies, Felt making classes including nuno techniques. Illinois, Chicago, DuPage, Naperville, Hinsdale, Oak Brook, Downers Grove, St Charles, Geneva, Burr Ridge, Willowbrook, Darien, Western Springs, Glass Bead Making and lampwork Glass techniques and fusing, Jewelry silver smith pmc, silver metal clay jewelry design, beading techniques, beads, beads, beads, yarn, yarn, yarn




You may register for classes on-line using
"PayPal" by clicking on the register button located within each class description, please call us at (630) 963-9573  if you prefer to register with your charge card by phone.  Click here to review our  REGISTRATION  POLICY before registering!  If it is 24 hours (or less) before class time... phone us to verify space availability... do not register on-line!

Attention teachers in Illinois:  We are approved to provide you with "CPDU" credits toward certificate renewal in the state of Illinois.  Please contact us prior to registering for details.


DIRECTORY OF CLASSES
Studio Hours:  Wednesday Through Saturday  11am to 6pm 

  Click here to see our Schedule in a Calendar Format



click here>     GUEST ARTIST WORKSHOPS

"Working from the Gut"

and "Altered Textiles for Collage and fiber Art"

with Joy Nebo Lavrencik

Sunday, June 23

  This Week in Classes

BEADING TECHNIQUES COLLAGE
PAPER ARTS
DRAWING
CREATIVITY CONTINUUM CROCHET & KNITTING
FELT MAKING
SPINNING
GLASS BEAD MAKING
& GLASS FUSING
HAT MAKING JEWELRY ARTS
PRECIOUS METAL CLAY
KIDS & TEENS POLYMER CLAY
SEWING TEXTILE / SURFACE
DESIGN

(dyeing, printing and hand painting yarns and fabrics)
WEAVING EVERYTHING ELSE
 
Soap Making   Candle Making 
Kumihimo (Japanese braiding) 
Tassel Making  Photographing Your Work 
Ceramics~Hand building

    Click here to Learn about our instructors

 





 


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SURFACE DESIGN:  PRINTING, PAINTING & DYEING FABRICS

Instructor:  Tammy L. Deck

A great 3-week process class for those just starting out and are ready to experiment with a variety of dyeing, painting, printing, and stamping techniques. This is a fun, fast paced class to sure to get your design juices flowing. Students will work on a variety of sample fabrics including cotton, rayon, silk and rayon/silk velvet. Learn various ways to use Fiber Reactive Dyes from thickened for printing to liquid and vat dyeing. During the final class you will apply 1 or more of the techniques to a silk scarf to keep.

Students should bring rubber gloves, a plastic grocery bag, and 5 pieces of 12" X 12" plastic to the first 2 classes. Dyes and silk scarf will be provided. Wear old clothes to class.

Date: April 18, 25 & May 2, 2013
Meets: Thursdays, 1pm to 4pm
Fee: $140

(please call 630-963-9573 or email to help us select the next days/dates that work for you)

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.



Dyeing Skills: Yarn or warps/ Hand Painting for Knitting, Crochet, Weaving ... Etc.

Click the button to view examples

Create your own space dyed yarns. This is great for knitters, weavers and art quilters, too. We supply work space and the dye. Bring your yarn or floss in skein form (or pre-measured warps) with a total weight not to exceed 16oz. Yarn should be cotton, rayon, linen, silk (or a natural blend). (*Yarn is also available for purchase through the design center!) Choke ties should be looser so they don't act as a resist when the yarn is wet and swollen. Tammy will explain the basics of working with fiber-reactive dyes at the beginning of each session.

Please indicate which time slot you prefer. You may sign up for more than one session at the PayPal screen.
Students should wear old clothes to class and bring 2 sheets of plastic 18" X 36", a small plastic tub and rubber gloves.

Various skeins of yarn are available for purchase in our Design Center.

Date: July 23, 2013
Meets: Wednesday, Session A: 1pm to 2:30pm / Session B: 2:30pm to 4pm
Fee: $20 + yarn

~or~

Date: TBA ~ 
Meets: Saturday, Session A: 1pm to 2:30pm / Session B: 2:30pm to 4pm
Fee: $20 + yarn

(please call 630-963-9573 or email to help us select a day/date that works for you)

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which session you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

Dyeing/surface design: Silk SCARVES / GAUZE Fabric for Laminating

Instructor: Tammy Deck

Beginning textile design students will learn this introductory techniques of hand painting and dyeing silk fabrics using Procion dyes and the microwave oven. Students may choose to work on Silk Chiffon Scarves (hemmed on all sides and ready to wear) or silk gauze fabric cuts to be used in the laminated (nuno) felting techniques. This dyeing technique applies to small yardages for sewn garments, as well. Students will dye 2 different color combinations during the class time. Dye stuff included in the class fee.

Wear old clothes to class... bring gloves if you have them.

Date: April 24, 2013
Meets: Wednesday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $35 (for silk gauze)

Fee: $50 (for 2 hemmed silk chiffon scarves)

~or~

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Wednesday, 10am to noon

Fee: $35 (for silk gauze)

Fee: $50 (for silk chiffon scarves)

(please call 630-963-9573 or email to help us select the next day/date that work for you)

** If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

 

SURFACE DESIGN: SILK SCREEN PRINTING FOR BEGINNERS

Learn basic image reproduction concepts during this 3 week class. Each student will explore open screen printing techniques and photo emulsion screen preparation, including coating and exposing their own single color image/design using photo emulsion and a simple, low-tech (low cost) light bulb exposure method. The images will then be printed on various sample fabrics and students own fabric articles (with a change of ink...this method works on papers, too). 

Photo emulsion, dyes, inks, 1 reusable silk screen (you get to keep the screen) and a collection of sample fabrics are provided through class fee. Students should bring 3 to 5 print ready (natural fiber) items to print on during the final session such as... t-shirts, fabric squares, tote bags or pillow cases.  Wear old clothes to classes... bring close-fitting rubber gloves 

Evenings:

Date: June 11, 18 & 25, 2013
Meets: Tuesdays, 6:30pm to 9pm
Fee: $195

Weekdays:

Date: July 29, 30 & 31, 2013
Meets: Mon, Tues, & Wed, 1:30pm to 4pm
Fee: $195

 

(please call 630-963-9573 or email to help us select the next days/dates that work for you)

** New Class! **

SURFACE DESIGN: TRUST YOUR GUT

Instructor: Joy Lavrencik

Curious about this semi-transparent, paper looking sculpting material?  Experience the medium with Joy.. as she guides you during this 3 hour workshop sampling the different ways to layer, incorporate other fibers and papers, preserve it and capture it in your work. You will get hands on experience working "from the gut" (organic sausage casings is what we're talking about)  Make flat pieces that may be incorporated as a collage material....or take advantage of it's sculptural potential.  May be stitched or glued to incorporate into your collage and fiber art.

Date: June 23, 2013
Meets: Sunday, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $65

 

 

 

** New Class! **

SURFACE DESIGN/ : ALTERED TEXTILES FOR COLLAGE and FIBER ART

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

Textile and Collage Artists...Come explore some thermal fabric/paper  manipulation techniques (painting, slashing, burning, melting) to create richly textured design components. Have fun with a torches, candles and heat guns...doing things to fabrics you wouldn't normally think appropriate.  Joy will guide you in the making of a collection of interesting componants that may be stitched, beaded, glued and assembled into collage and fiber art items (think hat making, too!) This class is appropriate for beginner to seasoned fiber/collage student. Some materials will be supplied - suggestion list for additional sample material  provided upon registration.

Date: June 23, 2013
Meets: Sunday, 3pm to 6pm
Fee: $65

 

 

 

SURFACE DESIGN: ADDING TEXTURE WITH PAPER LAMINATION

Instructor: Joy Lavrencik

Looking for a new way to add depth and texture to mixed media, quilts, or collage art work? Come explore this creative technique with us. During the two 3-hour sessions we will learn the basics and build a library of samples for you to add to your tool basket. This is really fun - it will change the way you look at paper!

Date: April 7 & 14, 2013
Meets: Sundays, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $85

 

 

 

** New Class! **

SURFACE DESIGN: Soy Wax Resist

Instructor: Joy Lavrencik

Artists use substances on textiles to temporarily "resist" dye and paint to create patterns and interest. This workshop explores the use of soy wax as a resist. Participants will use thickened dyes and under/over printing techniques to create complex surfaces. We will use some everyday and some not-so-traditional tools to achieve subtle, sophisticated effects on white cotton or silk. These beautiful creations can stand on their own, or be used as backgrounds for more complex pieces. Come have some fun, stretch your imagination and create whole cloth art!

12 PFD (prepared for dye) fabric pieces, a small blank silk screen, and use of soy wax and dyes will be provided in the class fee.

Participants should bring any stamps or kitchen printing tools you have (some will be provided, bring anything you would like to try).

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturday, Noon to 5pm
Fee: $85

 

 

 

 

   by student 

SURFACE DESIGN: INSPIRED BY NATURE

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

Click the button to view examples 

Come explore some unusual techniques for creating richly textured surfaces that beg to be touched. This class is appropriate for beginner to advanced textile design student. Some materials will be supplied - suggested materials list will be provided upon registration.

Date: April 7 & 14, 2013
Meets: Sundays, 3pm to 6pm
Fee: $85

 

 

 

 

SURFACE DESIGN:  IN PURSUIT OF THE COMPLEX CLOTH:  

Discharge (dye removal) Painting

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

During this 3 week class, students will investigate the numerous effects achieved by color removal.  Several different processes will be explored that can be combined or used alone.  We will also cover some of the ancient Japanese Shibori techniques as well.  Students will work on a variety of different fabrics.  This will expand students process knowledge and add visual depth when combined with other processes in our series "In Pursuit of the Complex Cloth".  

 

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Thursdays, 10am  to 1pm
Fee: $140+

 

 

SURFACE DESIGN: IN PURSUIT OF THE COMPLEX CLOTH:

DEVORE - Controlled Burn-out

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

In this 2 session class students will explore the "burn-out" process on Silk/Rayon velvet and satin fabrics.  The project will be to complete a scarf length piece and a variety of samples that can be used in our other "Complex Cloth" classes in the pursuit of depth and interest.  We will touch on dye painting and some other printing techniques such as foiling. Fabrics, chemicals and dye included in class fee.  Bring sheet plastic and rubber gloves.  Wear old clothes to class.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Tuesdays,  6pm to 8pm
Fee: $68

 

 

SURFACE DESIGN: IN PURSUIT OF THE COMPLEX CLOTH:

Spontaneous Mono Printing on Fabric

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

In this 3 week class, students will explore a free style approach that allows for a more spontaneous use of silk-screens to apply  design and imagery on cloth.  This is a process class where students will work on a variety of sample fabrics (if you have samples from a previous complex cloth class...please bring them to this  class) as they explore various methods to block out areas of the screens. Sample fabric kit and dyes are included in class fee.  Supply list provided upon registration.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Tuesdays,  6pm to 8:30pm
Fee: $130

Wear old clothes to class

 


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~ Jump to the knitting classes by clicking here ~

 

CROCHET SKILLS: CROCHET BASICS - CLASS 1

Instructor: Patty Pulliam

During this one session class, Patty teaches several of the most basic stitches for crochet. Learn how to chain, single crochet and double crochet. Project sheet will be provided to practice these stitches. Price of class includes yarn for sampling and use of crochet hook. Patty will help you choose yarn and needle size appropriate for you first project. Bring a size H and J hook to class if you have them.

Date: March 7, 2013
Meets: Thursday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Fee: $22

 

 

 

CROCHET SKILLS: CROCHET BASICS - CLASS 2

Instructor: Patty Pulliam

Learn two new stitches and begin to unravel the crochet "code". Learn how to read crochet instructions and how to combine several basic stitches toward creating a crochet square.  Bring a size H and J hook to class if you have them and some worsted weight yarn. Crochet 1 or equivalent experience is required.

Date: March 14, 2013
Meets: Thursday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Fee: $22

 

 

CROCHET SKILLS: CROCHET BASICS - CLASS 3

Instructor: Patty Pulliam

Leave squares behind and use those crochet stitches learned in Crochet 1 and 2 in the round! Patty will cover more about increasing and decreasing, and discuss "granny squares" as well as other motifs which can be connected to create a variety of projects.

Bring a Size H hook and 3 colors of worsted weight yarn. Crochet 1 and Crochet 2 or equivalent experience is required.

Date: March 28, 2013
Meets: Thursday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Fee: $22

 

 

 

BEADING TECHNIQUES: CROCHETED BEADED ROPE

Instructor: Patty Pulliam

This technique creates a great, contemporary looking rope suitable for necklaces as it is quite supple and strong. Great for a lariat, choker or bracelet, it has a little give to it due to the crochet stitches. Lampworkers love this rope to showcase special beads and pendants. Once finished, you can hardly see the thread! Students will learn on a gentle spiral pattern which makes it easier to see the stitches. Other design variations will be discussed.

Students must already be very comfortable with basic crochet stitches when they take this class. (Learn how to crochet in our Crochet 1 class!)

The materials are simple: size 6 seed beads in 3 or 6 colors (available for purchase at TLD), a size 10 steel crochet hook, and size 8 crochet cotton thread.

Bring your reading glasses and, if you have them, magnifying glasses to this class since the beads are tiny!

*Beads and tools are available for purchase from the Design Center.

Date: March 1, 2013 **
Meets: Friday, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $38+

~or~

Date: April 4, 2013 **
Meets: Thursday, 6pm to 8pm
Fee: $38+

**If more than one date is listed, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

CROCHET SKILLS: THE CROCHETED HAT

 

Click the button to view Connie's hat patterns

During this one session class, students will learn how to follow one of Constance Maley's original hat patterns so you may go on to create your own versions of her Crocheted Bowler in cotton chenille. (Just like the ones we sell in the gallery!) Cotton chenille yarn (several color options), hat pattern and crochet hook will be provided ($15 value). While it's not expected to finish the hat in class, you will be well on your way and the instructor will demonstrate the brim transition and finishing techniques. The flower and leaf will also be demonstrated. Students must know basic crochet stitches (or have taken our Crochet 1 and Crochet 2 classes).

Date: December 12, 2012
Meets: Wednesday, 6pm to 9pm
Fee: $55

 

 

 

Jump to the knitting machine classes by clicking here

KNITTING SKILLS: Beginner Basics - Class 1

Learn to knit or brush up on your skills.  During this class, students will learn to cast-on, and knit... the basic skills needed to create those long, narrow scarves that are so popular. Trial yarn and needles will be provided during class time, but if you've got some supplies, please bring a small selection to class. Tammy will help you select appropriate yarn for a good first project... a scarf, a fold-over purse, or a wash cloth.

Yarn & needles are available for purchase in the Design Center.

Date: March 20, 2013
Meets: Wednesday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $22

 

 

KNITTING SKILLS: Beginner Series / 101 - For Kids & Moms

Learn to knit or brush up on your skills. Learn to cast on, knit, and cast off in this class... the basic skills needed to create those long, narrow scarves that are so popular. Trial yarn and needles will be provided during class time. Tammy will help select the appropriate yarn for your project(s)... select a scarf, a small fold over purse, or a wash cloth.

Yarn & needles are available for purchase in the Design Center.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturday, 11am to 1pm
Fee: $20 each

 

 

 

KNITTING SKILLS: BEGINNER SERIES / CLASS 2

Now that you have mastered casting-on and knit stitches, expand your skills to include purl stitches and learn how to knit stockinet stitch and ribbing techniques such as knit 1, purl 2. You will also revisit bind-off techniques. If time allows, we will try a variety of yarn types and needle sizes. Bring in a knitted sample to continue adding onto or start from scratch. If this time and date don't work with your schedule or you have not had a chance to practice the skills from the first class, check back for our re-occurring listing.

All sampling materials supplied during the class time... your instructor will help you select a small project and yarn to incorporate your new skill level. Project yarn is purchased separately.

Date: March 27, 2013
Meets: Wednesday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $22

 

 

KNITTING SKILLS: BEGINNER SERIES / CLASS 3 

Okay... so now you are ready to learn the last two skills needed to ready you for you first sweater.  The focus for this class will be on various increasing and decreasing methods, but just for fun... there will be a 6 stitch cable thrown in for texture. Bring your own needles and general knitting supplies to class. Not feeling ready to start a sweater? The instructor will help you choose a smaller project and yarn that allows you to practice all of the techniques you've learned so far.  Yarn and pattern purchased separately.  What? you've been too swamped to practice! Watch our class listing for the next time this class is offered.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Friday, 3pm to 5pm 
Fee: $22

 

 

KNITTING SKILLS: Beginner Series / Pushing Past the Scarf
Shawls with Shape

Okay... you are fed up with the scarf thing... ready to move on to a more interesting project. The focus for this 3 week class will be on the creation of a mobius or triangle shawl.  We will help you select your yarns (or create your own designer yarns from our collection), select shapes, knit a "gauge" swatch and teach you how to read  the pattern or graph. It's time to get you going and keep motivated by coming each session. Various finishing techniques will be covered in the last class. Yarn and pattern sold separately.  

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Thursday, 6pm to 8pm 
Fee: $66+

 

 

Knitting Skills: Bead Knit spiral rope

 

Learn how to create an elegant beaded chain using 4 stitches and your basic knitting skills. Great technique for making elegant bracelets, necklace base or even a purse strap for an evening bag.  Looks like a beaded, twisted ribbon or a beaded tube.  Sample on display in our gallery.  Supply list provided upon registration. 1 session

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Saturday,  2pm to 5pm
Fee: $38+

 

 

 

kNITTING sKILLS: Bead Knit Amulet Necklace 

  

Click the button to view a sample 

This class is a great introduction to bead knitting for students that already know very basic hand knitting stitches and how to cast on/off (take our knitting I & II classes).  The great thing about these is that they look hard but are actually very simple. On day one, students will get a great start toward making their own heirloom quality knitted, beaded "mad money" purse based off of  Victorian designs. On Day two, students will shape the flap, sew the seams, create the neck-strap and embellish....with more beads, no doubt! Samples can be viewed (or purchased) in our gallery. Supply list available upon registration.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Wednesdays,  1pm to 3pm (3:30 end 2nd session) 
Fee: $55+

 

 

KNITTING SKILLS: Advanced Skills / Knitting architect

Learn how to write your own knitting instructions and better understand how to alter existing patterns.  This class is for hand knitters and machine knitters alike with stronger knitting skills under their belt (should have knit and assembled to completion at least 3 different sweaters).  Students should bring the following to class:  calculator, pencil, lined notebook paper, one well-fitting basic sweater, 2 different 20 stitch by 20 row knit swatches (one of the samples should include a 6 stitch cable with a purl stitch on either side) and the yarn label from each yarn used.  Students will learn how to transfer a silhouette to paper, calculate stitch and row counts, increases and decreases and how to plan for a cable design.  This class meets 3 weeks

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:  Thursdays,  6:30pm to 8pm 
Fee: $65

 

 

 

KNITTING Machine SKILLS:  Beginner Basics / Class #1

Whether you’ve purchased your machine elsewhere or from us… bring it to class and get yourself a jump-start. What? you don't have a machine yet? That's okay... we will supply one so you can give the thing a test drive to see if you like it. You can actually learn how to use the machine in this class and knit your first project with these skills. Tammy Deck, a former representative for Bond (Incredible Sweater Machine), will teach you sweater making basics of casting on, knitting, increases, decreases, ribbing and casting off. The Deluxe Sweater machine is available for on-line or in-store purchase via our Art Supplies pages. 

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $25

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

KNITTING Machine SKILLS: beginner Basics / Class #2

Now that you are familiar with the basics of knitting using a knitting machine, it's time to add techniques to your skill level. Can you believe it? In this two hour class you can create 2, 4 & 6 stitch cables with purl on either side, intarsia (color block changes), Fair Isle, “V” Neck formation and invisible shoulder seams.  

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Thursday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $22

 

 

KNITTING machine SKILLS:  advanced level / Knitting architect

Learn how to write your own knitting instructions and better understand how to alter existing patterns.  This class is for hand knitters and machine knitters alike with stronger knitting skills under their belt (should have knit and assembled to completion at least 3 different sweaters).  Students should bring the following to class:  calculator, pencil, lined notebook paper, one well-fitting basic sweater, 2 different 20 stitch by 20 row knit swatches (one of the samples should include a 6 stitch cable with a purl stitch on either side) and the yarn label from each yarn used.  Students will learn how to transfer a silhouette to paper, calculate stitch and row counts, increases and decreases and how to plan for a cable design.  This class meets 3 weeks

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Thursdays, 2pm to 3:30pm 
Fee:
$65

 

 


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SPINNING SKILLS:  BEGINNER'S INTRO CLASS

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Learn the basics of spinning to make your own wool yarns. The first session will cover the process of making yarn and simple techniques using drop spindles. The second session will deal with how a spinning wheel works and learning how to spin a consistent yarn on the wheel.

Materials and equipment provided but if you have a drop spindle or a wheel you can bring them to class on the appropriate day and learn on your own equipment.

Additional fiber and spinning tools available for purchase from the Design Center.

Date: December 1 & 8, 2012
Meets: Saturdays, 10am to Noon
Fee: $75
(materials and equipment use provided)

 

 

 

SPINNING SKILLS: SPINNERS REFRESHER COURSE

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Are you a spinner who has fallen out of practice or have taken a class and need additional coaching? Attend this class for a refresher on the basics of spinning your own yarn. Two ounces of wool and equipment for use during class provided but if you have a drop spindle or a wheel** please bring them to class. 

Additional fiber and spinning tools available for purchase from the Design Center.

**Your spinning wheel must be in working condition. There will NOT be time to fix or repair your wheel during class. If you are uncertain about the condition of your wheel, please make an appointment with Brian prior to the class for an assessment.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets:
Saturday, 12:30pm to 2:30pm
Fee:
$35
(some materials and equipment use provided)

 

 

SPINNING SKILLS: Intermediate level / Designer Yarns: A

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Learn how to spin interesting yarns that will give your fiber work a unique, special look in this 2 session class. Some yarns go by many names, but Betty will teach you how to spin the Knot, Seed or Knop  and the Knickerbocher, tweed or garnet yarn. Core spinning and spinning with beads will also be taught. The only pre-requisite is that the participant must have a basic understanding of spinning and a working spinning wheel. Bring the following to class:spinning wheel, lazy kate, sewing thread.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturdays, 12:30 to 2:30 pm
Fee: $75 (materials provided)

 

 

SPINNING SKILLS: INTERMEDIATE LEVEL / Designer Yarns: B

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Investigate the possibilities of making new and exciting yarns during this 2 session class.  This class will cover Navajo ply, slub yarn, boucle and crepe yarn. Participants must know how to spin and have a working spinning wheel. (A wheel can be rented if you can not bring one).

Bring: a ball or bobbin of your handspun singles yarn, 2 spools of sewing thread, lazy kate or shoe box with knitting needles (or dowel rods),  any roving you like to use in any colors you like.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturdays, 10:30 to 2:00 pm
Fee: $65 (materials provided)

 



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Please consider inviting your child's friend(s) along for the following classes.  These activities are also available for parties or troop activities scheduled separately... please call to make arrangements (630) 963-9573

~Click Here to Transfer to our Santa's Workshop Page (for big kids, too!)~

~Click here to jump down to our Glass, Fiber & Crafts Camp Sessions~

 

KIDS CLASSES: KNITTING 101 FOR KIDS (AND MOMS)

Learn to knit or brush up on your skills. Learn to cast on, knit, and bind off in this class... the basic skills needed to create those long, narrow scarves that are so popular. Trial yarn and needles will be provided during class time. Tammy will help select the appropriate yarn for your project(s)... select a scarf, a small fold over purse, or a wash cloth (yarn & needles purchased separately).

Date: December 26, 2012
Meets: Wednesday, Noon to 2pm
Fee: $22 each

~or~

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Wednesday, 4pm to 6pm
Fee: $22 each

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: spinning - learn how to make yarn

One session of 2 hours. Kids will learn about different fibers, how to comb them and spin them into a yarn suitable for knitting or weaving. Kids will keep the yarn they spin and will receive a simple spinning hook to take home. They will also try their hand at spinning on a drop spindle and a spinning wheel. Ages 10 and up.

Date: December 26, 2012
Meets: Wednesday, 3pm to 5pm
Fee: $18

 

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: Hand Made Felt Cell Phone / IPOD carriers

Instructor: Tammy L. Deck 

Kids age 7 and up (grown-ups, too!) are invited to join us for a fun learning opportunity in the art of felt making while  working on a project they'll be proud to gift to someone special.  Kids will learn how to make make felt over a form... cut it free and finish it by hand sewing beads and attaching a cord. Felt making is a magical, natural method of turning wool fibers into a fabrics... all we use is soap, water and a bit of rubbing. All materials included.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Wednesday, 2pm to 5pm (ish)
Fee: $25 ea person

~or~

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: BEAD WEAVING ON A BEAD LOOM

1 session of 3 hours. Kids will learn how to set up and use a bead loom to design and make items such as: friendship bracelets, chokers, head or hat bands. Beading materials for a bracelet supplied. Kids get to keep the bead loom and extra beads for a project at home. Ages 11 and up.

Date: December 27, 2012
Meets: Thursday, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $26

 

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: Recycled Art / COLLAGE JOURNAL/BOOKMAKING

Kids will make their own collage journal during this 2 session class. During session 1, kids will collage the front and back cover using tissue, foil, ribbons, painted papers and more. During session 2, kids will bind their journals using twine, ribbons, sticks, beads and feathers. Most materials are supplied, but kids are encouraged to bring photos (or color copies of photos), bits of ribbon, paper, dried leaves or personal (mostly flat) mementos that are okay to be converted permanently into their journal cover. Ages 8 and up.

Date: December 27 & 28, 2012
Meets: Thursday & Friday, 3pm to 4:30pm
Fee: $20

 

 

  

KIDS CLASSES: BLOCK PRINTS ON T-SHIRTS

One session of 2 hours. Kids will design and cut their own block and then go on to transform one T-shirt by block printing various designs and images using permanent textile inks. Each child must bring their own 100% cotton shirt... all other supplies are provided. Ages 9 and up.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: 3:30pm to 6pm
Fee: $20

~or~

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Monday, 2pm to 4pm
Fee: $20

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

 

Ali & Darby from July

KIDS CLASSES: WEAVING FOR BEGINNERS

LEARN HOW TO WEAVE ON A "REAL" LOOM

Make a neck scarf on one of our rigid heddle looms. In this 5-week class kids will learn to plan and measure cotton chenille yarn for their project, thread the rigid heddle, wind the yarn on and weave their scarf. We may even be able to throw in a knitting lesson, too. Kids should bring a lunch each day (micro and fridge available). All supplies included.

Ages 9 and up.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Wednesdays, 4pm to 5:30pm
Fee: $75 (all materials provided)

Click the button to view Elizabeth & Evan weaving

 

 

KIDS (and parent) CLASSES: CANDLE MAKING FROM SCRATCH

Kids (and grown-ups, too!) will learn beginner level, basic techniques to make candles from scratch during this 1 1/2 hr workshop. Each student will pour 1 specialty to bring home that day and 1 standard mold (picked up at a later date). Safety topics will discussed and practiced. Students should dress in old clothes and bring a quart size cardboard creamer/soy milk or O.J. container to class.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Tuesday, 6:30pm to 8pm
Fee: $22

 

 

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: FELT MAKING FROM SCRATCH

Click the button to see girls with their finished purses

1 session of 3 hours. Kids will design and make their own flat felt tapestry as they learn the age old technique that turns loose wool fiber into a fabric. It's amazing to see a pile of fluff turn into a flat piece without the use of glue or sewing.... the kids have fun walking on it in a tub of warm, soapy water and feel the magic that happens under their feet! (they leave with cleaner feet than when the arrived!) Material and equipment supplied.

Ages 8 and up.

Date: December 28, 2012
Meets: Friday, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $25

 

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: FIBER CAMP

Instructor: Tammy Deck

Click the button to view Fiber Campers

Campers will learn the entire weaving process while creating their own Chenille Scarf during this 4 day session. They will measure and paint their warp with dye on the first day. On day two, they will rinse their warps and hang them to dry while they learn about felt making and make a felt cell phone / IPod carrier (see photo above). Day three will be spent setting up a rigid heddle loom and begin to weave their scarves. On day four, they will complete the weaving and finish their scarf. Ages 10 through... grown-ups. Campers should bring a sack lunch each day (we have a small fridge and microwave).

Fee: $225 (all materials provided)
Camp Meets: Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs from 10am to 3pm
Session #1
July 16-19, 2012 (meets 4 days in a row)

~or~

Camp Meets: Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs from 10am to 3pm
Session #2
August 6-9, 2012 (meets 4 days in a row)

 

 

KIDS CLASSES: CRAFTS CAMP

Click the button to view Crafts Campers

We have taken most of our classes for kids and combined them for a great week of creative exploration. Kids may invite their mom to sign up for this class, too! On Monday, campers will learn how to collage a journal cover using recycled and found materials and then go on to learn how to spin yarn. On Tuesday they will ply their hand spun yarn with another yarn and go on to dye it using kool-aid then they will block print a T-shirt (please send a cotton shirt to class that day). On Wednesday, kids will learn to knit and start working on a small project using the yarn they created... they will learn to twist cording and make felt beads. Finally on Thursday, they will learn how to use a bead-weaving loom and create a beaded bracelet... then go on to bind and finish their journals.  All equipment and materials will be provided. Ages 10 through... grown-ups. Campers should bring a sack lunch each day (we have a small fridge and micro)

Fee: $225 (all materials provided)

Camp Meets: Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs from 10am to 3pm
Session #1
July 23-26, 2012 (meets 4 days in a row)

~or~

Camp Meets: Mon, Tues, Wed & Thurs from 10am to 3pm
Session #2
August 13-16, 2012 (meets 4 days in a row)

 

 

 

 


RETURN TO DIRECTORY

 

 

** New Class! **

Working from the Gut

Sculpting with Joy Nebo Lavrencik

 

Collage and Fiber Arts: TRUST YOUR GUT

with Joy Lavrencik

Curious about this semi-transparent, paper looking sculpting material?  Experience the medium with Joy.. as she guides you during this 3 hour workshop sampling the different ways to layer, incorporate other fibers and papers, preserve it and capture it in your work. You will get hands on experience working "from the gut" (organic sausage casings is what we're talking about)  Make flat pieces that may be incorporated as a collage material....or take advantage of it's sculptural potential.  May be stitched or glued to incorporate into your collage and fiber art.

Date: June 23, 2013
Meets: Sunday, 11am to 2pm
Fee: $65

 

SURFACE DESIGN/ : ALTERED TEXTILES FOR COLLAGE and FIBER ART

Instructor:  Joy Lavrencik

Textile and Collage Artists...Come explore some thermal fabric/paper  manipulation techniques (painting, slashing, burning, melting) to create richly textured design components. Have fun with a torches, candles and heat guns...doing things to fabrics you wouldn't normally think appropriate.  Joy will guide you in the making of a collection of interesting componants that may be stitched, beaded, glued and assembled into collage and fiber art items (think hat making, too!) This class is appropriate for beginner to seasoned fiber/collage student. Some materials will be supplied - suggestion list for additional sample material  provided upon registration.

Date: June 23, 2013
Meets: Sunday, 3pm to 6pm
Fee: $65

 

PAPER ARTS: Creative Art Journaling

Facilitator: Laura Thoma

Start Right Now...Just jump in...from where you are today!

Creative journaling is a practice of visual journaling that allows you to reclaim your refrigerator art while exploring your internal terrain. This group is a great way to explore, express and embrace your inner artist and find your creative voice in a fun, interactive, judgment free environment. Creative journaling is a place for the creatively challenged and the creatively confident to join together to play, learn, laugh and support one another on their creative journeys. We meet the 2nd Thursday of every month.

Each two-hour interactive session is focused around several different elements. The focus is on understanding the basics of creative journaling, self-expression, and learning to support both yourself individually and your group members. You will be introduced to different page types that will involve cutting, pasting, coloring, painting, sparkle enhancing, macaroni mashing, and much, much more. Below is a sample of different elements:

  • Learning a new page type
  • Practicing new page type
  • Group exercise
  • Practicing Creativity Snacks™
  • Open/free journaling time
  • Discussions of importance and impact of practiced self-expression
  • Creative “challenges”
  • Letting go of “right & wrong” & perfectionism
  • Sharing individual experiences with creative journaling

 

Date: June 13, 2013
Meets: Second Thursday of each month, 1pm to 3pm
Fee: $20 each meeting/month (most materials included)

 

 

 

PAPER ARTS: Touch Drawing

Instructor: Kattalina Kazunas

Delve into your soul as you immerse yourself in a simple but profound drawing process called Touch Drawing.* Through the movement of fingertips and hands on paper that has been placed over wet paint, imagery is created. Somatic awareness, intuition and creativity are awakened. What emerges is a visual journal, a record of your inner process. This workshop is relevant to both artists seeking to deepen their personal expression, and to those wishing to explore their souls and free their creative energy. No artistic confidence or experience is necessary.

Through the speed and directness of this process, we create many drawings in a short period of time. While this process is not messy, and the paint is washable, please wear a smock/apron if you want to protect your clothing. Please also bring a journal and pen.

Click here for a printable flyer with more details on this class

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturday, 11am to 5pm
Fee: $75

 

 

 

 

PAPER ARTS: Japanese Book Binding

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Learn some history of how Japanese bookbinding came to be and the various styles they used. Participants will learn the traditional ways of creating two styles of Japanese bookbinding as well as the modern way of embossing the cover of your journal.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Saturday, 3:00 to 5:30
Fee: $45

 

 

 

PAPER ARTS: JOURNAL MAKING FROM RECYCLED MATERIALS

Instructor: Tammy Deck

Students will make their own collage journal using recycled and new materials during this 2 session class. During session 1, they will collage the front and back covers. During session 2, students will learn how to bind their journals. Paper and most materials are supplied, but we encourage you to bring photos (or color copies of photos), bits of ribbon, paper, dried leaves or personal (mostly flat) mementos that are okay to be converted permanently into your journal cover.

This class is great for adults and kids!

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Thursdays, 3pm to 4:30pm
Fee: $40

 


RETURN TO DIRECTORY



SPECIAL INTEREST: SOAP MAKING FROM SCRATCH

Learn the craft of cold process soap making (soap making from scratch... not melt and pour) during this 2-hour workshop. Tammy will share her interest in creating wonderful herbal soaps. Students work together to learn the entire process (from start to finish) as they create a 4 lb base batch and then each student will pour off a separate mold to create their own color/scent choice. (Soap will need to set up for at least 24 hours before being un-molded and picked up by the student.)

Please wear comfortable work clothes with long sleeves to class. Soap making books and supplies available for purchase in the Design Center. Soap made in class will need to be cured at home for about 1 month before using.

Date: June 30, 2013 **
Meets: Sunday, Noon to 2pm
Fee: $35

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

SPECIAL INTEREST: CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP FOR BEGINNERS

Learn the basic techniques to make candles from scratch during this 1-1/2 hr workshop. Each person should bring a 1-quart size square cardboard OJ, Creamer or EggNog carton to make a specialty candle to bring home that day. Additionally, each student will make their own standard molded candle to be picked up at a later date. Kids and adults welcome.

Date: June 30, 2013 **
Meets: Sunday, 3pm to 4:30pm
Fee: $25

~or~

Date: TBA **
Meets: Wednesday, 2pm to 3:30pm
Fee: $25

**If more than one date appears, please indicate which date you are registering for in the Paypal comments box.

 

 

 

 

SPECIAL INTEREST: KUMIHIMO (JAPANESE BRAIDING) BASICS #1

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Click the button to view photos 

Kumihimo is the art of Japanese braiding. Learn how to make several basic braids on a Marudai with 8 bobbins. Examples of many braids will be presented as well as applications of braids. Students will work on studio provided Marudai kit which may be purchased after the class for $50. Fiber used in class provided through the class fee. After this class, consider taking the "Beaded Kumihimo" class to add elegance to your braids.

What? You've already got your own Marudai set? Bring it and use it during class and receive a $5 credit toward any purchase or future class.

Date: December 1, 2012
Meets: Saturday, 12:30pm to 3pm
Fee: $50

 

 

 

 

Beaded Braid by student to coordinate w/glass piece

SPECIAL INTEREST: Kumihimo Basics #2 / Beaded Braids

Instructor: Betty Burian Kirk

Click the button to view photos 

Learn how to add sparkle to your kumihimo braids! Is it a beading technique or a "special interest" technique? We don't care... it's fabulous. These braids can serve as a lariat, hat band, rope belt, purse strap or stand alone as a necklace. Students must know how to wind a warp and how to set up a maru dai. (Consider taking our Basic Kumihimo class scheduled the weekend prior to this one.) 

A list of supplies and advanced prep directions will be provided upon registration.  Bring your own maru dai set or rent one of our during class for $5.

Date: December 8, 2012
Meets: Saturday, 12:30pm to 2:30pm
Fee: $40+

 

 

 

CERAMICS: INTRODUCTION TO HAND BUILT FORMS

Learn the basic hand building pottery making skills to make functional and sculptural ceramic pieces. Find out the differences between earthenware, stoneware and porcelain clays. This 5-week beginner class will teach the pinch, coil, and slab methods of construction. Terms, tools, and techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. Glazes and Firings will also be covered.  Materials and tool use included in class fee.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: 3 hour sessions
Fee: $185

 

 

 

 

 

by continuum members

Creativity Continuum: Gather, Explore, Celebrate

Facilitator: Sara Miller   Click here to learn more about Sara

Join this group of multi media artists as we explore all aspects of the creative process.

Start right now...from where you are today!

A group of creative people who journey along the Creativity Continuum, from those who are first exploring their creative impulses to those who have claimed themselves as artists and all those in between. Gathering monthly in focused exploration to inspire, support and challenge each other to stretch, grow, and celebrate our creative voices. (Meets third Sunday of each month or the following Monday evening of each month.) Sara will lead the group in creativity exercises, visualizations, relaxation techniques, artists’ affirmations, readings and discussions. The groups will also serve as a forum for beginning new work and exploring artistic challenges and sharing the results of their efforts with the group. In addition to the monthly meetings, we will offer periodic “artist’s dates” to local art happenings and complete the cycle with a gallery exhibit of member's work. Members also have access to Creativity Continuum Facebook Page where they can receive information and participate in on-line interaction between meetings.

Quarterly Registration: $70 (3 sessions)

Focused Creativity Workshops will be scheduled other dates and times throughout the month on topics such as: “Exercising your Right Brain”, “Breaking Through Creative Barriers”, “Photographing Your Work”. Workshop Prices will vary.

 

Next Meeting date:

Sunday, April 21, 2013 from Noon to 3pm

and then again:

Sunday, May 19, 2013 from Noon to 3pm

and then again:

Sunday, June 16, 2013 from Noon to 3pm

 

 

 

Special Interest Workshop / Photographing Your Work (CC)

Instructor: Roger Legel, Multi-Media Art Instructor the College of DuPage and owner/operator of AfterImage Media.

This class, Photographing Your Artwork, will take a complicated subject and through examples, discussion and hands on demonstrations, provide the working knowledge to create useful, market specific finished images that artists can use to promote, showcase and submit their work through traditional and electronic means. The lessons learned are valuable and specific to the artistic medium you work in, the imaging equipment you may already have and the multiple end-uses that you’ll need to satisfy to showcase your work. 

We begin by discussing how to arrange a space with backgrounds, lighting and camera equipment. Then we talk about the specifics of light, framing and camera operation. We’ll actually set up several examples and show you how 2-D and 3-D artwork is shot with various lighting set-ups and a variety of cameras and lenses. At the end of the first session, students will be given assignments to complete by the following week. At that time, critiques, problem solving and answering questions will give each student an opportunity to resolve individual challenges. Information on output formats for traditional and digital media and suggestions on preserving and packaging finished work are addressed in the second session as well. Students should bring their cameras with manuals and accessories to the first class if possible. You can also bring an example of your work to be photographed if you wish.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Mondays, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Registration $95

 

 

 

Special Interest Event / Entering Art Fairs: Slide Review and Open Discussion (CC)

Are you considering taking your artwork to the next level?  Curious about entering Fine Art Fairs and learning the nuts and bolts of getting accepted?

Erin Melloy, of EM Events, joins us and invites participants to submit slides of their work for inclusion (alongside slides from other professional artists)  in a "mock" jury slide review designed to provide participants insight and open  discussion on the artist selection process.

Date: TBA ~ (please call 630-963-9573 or email if interested in this class)
Meets: Mondays, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

Registration $15

 

CC member Registration $10

 

 

 


RETURN TO DIRECTORY

REGISTRATION POLICY

  • A 50% deposit should accompany each mailed-in or phoned-in class registration to reserve your space. Balances are due and must be paid in full at least 5 days prior to the start of the class or workshop.
  • Classes with out-of-state or international instructors will have a balance due date 1 to 2 months in advance of the class.
  • On-line registrations will bill the full amount for each class unless otherwise indicated.
  • There is no fee to transfer your payment to a different class provided your request is made at least 10 days prior to the class date for your original registration.
  • All payments are forfeited if you withdraw from a class less than 10 days prior to the class date.
  • Cancellations are subject to a 7% cancellation fee if charge card or PayPal was used.
  • **No** refunds, credits, transfers or make-up for missed sessions.
  • We reserve the right to cancel a class due to insufficient enrollment and will transfer or refund 100% of all money  collected for that class.
  • "Seat Saver" Deposit Policy:  There are absolutely NO refunds, credits or transfers of "seat saver" deposits if you fail to complete your registration / pay the balance 10 days prior to class date 

Please understand that our classes are "artistic" in nature and we encourage our students to stretch their skill level, which sometimes results in projects that may require additional home time or studio time to complete. Studio session rates vary, please inquire. Please feel free to contact us with your questions before registering.

 

~~~~ If it is 24 hours (or less) before class time... phone us to verify space availability...
do not register on-line!
~~~~

 

TLD Design Center & Gallery
26 E. Quincy St., Westmont, IL 60559
(630) 963-9573


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