TAC offers classes, workshops, maker meetups, and other programs in a wide variety of textile and fiber arts. See what we have coming up below. If you have a class or program request, please contact us.
Puff Quilt Workshop
Puff Quilt Workshop
Wednesdays, October 8 and November 5 from 6-8pm
Class level: Beginner-friendly, but should have some previous sewing or quilting experience
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Kaitlin Esche-Lyon (@quarterlifeleap)
Class fee: $110
Are you ready to make the coziest quilt ever?!
Puff quilts have had a recent resurgence in the quilting world. Almost a weighted blanket meets quilt, this puffy quilt will be the most used quilt in your home. During this two-part workshop you will learn how to create your puffs, how to put all your puffs together, and work through design considerations and sizing.
This is a beginner friendly quilt, but some sewing knowledge is required for this workshop. Homework between sessions will be to finish sewing your puffs.
What to bring:
Sewing Machine
Thread
Rotary Cutter
Ruler: 6” x 24” or 6” square
Scissors
Safety Pins
Fabric for Small Throw Size 63” x 63” (if you’d like to make a different size please email Kaitlin to get the exact fabric requirements).
Outside Puff: 21 Fat Quarters
Back of Puff: 3 ¾ yards
Backing: 4 yards
Batting: 67” x 67”
Fiber Fill: Roughly 36 ounces
You may also use scraps! Make sure each scrap is at least 4 ½” square.
REGISTER
Bio:
Kaitlin Esche-Lyon is a skilled quilter and textile artist known for her vibrant designs and innovative approach to the art of quilting. Blending traditional techniques with modern flair, Kaitlin’s work features bold colors, dynamic patterns, and thoughtful textures. Passionate about sharing her craft, she teaches workshops for quilters of all skill levels, fostering creativity and community. Inspired by nature, travel, and architecture, her pieces tell unique stories and have been featured in exhibitions and cherished as heirlooms. Kaitlin’s dedication to artistry and teaching continues to spread joy and community in the quilting world.
Website: www.quarterlifeleap.com
Social: @quarterlifeleap
Knitting Traditional Top Down Socks
Knitting Traditional Top Down Socks
Thursdays, October 9, October 23, October 30, and November 13
1-3pm
Class level: Need to have basic experience with knit and purl stitches; Previous experience using double-pointed needles is also recommended
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artists: Jeannette Deloya and Freddi Adelson
Class fee: $165
Imagine wearing a pair of warm socks that you made yourself. Or, gifting them to someone you care about.There's really nothing like it!
Over four sessions, Jeannette and Freddi will teach the fundamentals of knitting a pair of traditional wool socks on double pointed needles. You will complete a pair of socks and along the way, practice ribbing, stocking knit, knitting reinforced heels, picking up stitches, left and right leaning decreases and the Kitchener Stitch.
During each of the four sessions, the instructors will demonstrate skills and techniques for each respective segment of the sock (cuff, heel, foot, and toe). Students will practice during the session, with some knitting to be completed between sessions.
What to bring:
1 skein of sock yarn - enough for two socks. Minimum 100 grams. Recommend a wool/nylon blend -75/25 or 80/20. There are so many to choose from. Self-striping yarns are fun to work with.
2 sets of double pointed needles (4-5 in each set). Recommend US size 1.5 or 2.
1 pair small, sharp scissors
Row counter, if desired
1 darning needle
Note: There are a number of wonderful yarn shops in Dane County. (See “Shops” section on our Community Resources page. Staff members in these shops are a wonderful resource and can make recommendations. Avoid very fine or thick yarn.
REGISTER
Bio:
Freddi and Jeannette have a shared passion and long history for knitting socks that goes back 20 years. Our knitting needles have produced hundreds of pairs of socks, that keep the feet of our friends and family (and our own feet, too!) warm during cold Wisconsin winters. We have both taught knitting to many members of our shared community. We have also held workshops in several other textile related crafts. We are both retired educators from Madison Metropolitan School District, and have extensive experience teaching youth and adult learners.
Sew a Kimono Jacket
Sew a Kimono Jacket
Saturdays, October 25 and November 1, 1-4pm
Class level: Intermediate
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Sarah Best
Class fee: $195
With up-cycled fabrics, you will design and sew a unique, REVERSIBLE, kimono jacket! Using a provided pattern block, participants will start by learning how to take measurements and adjust a pattern to fit you.
Please bring an old quilt, bedspread, or other favorite mid-weight fabric you would like to make into the jacket. (Please have fabric pre-washed.)
The workshop will introduce piecing, patchwork (color blocking), and appliqué techniques to sew your jacket together with a clean finish. This jacket will have no closure, but you could always add one once completed.
You will leave this workshop with a finished, reversible, kimono jacket as well as a pattern that fits you for future use.
Required Supplies:
Fabric
3 yards at 45” wide min
Pre-washed
1 spool coordinating or neutral thread. Please be sure it’s an All Purpose sewing thread.
Tape measure
Sewing machine
If you would like to use one from TAC’s studio, please indicate in the google form that will be sent to you after registration.
Provided supplies:
Pattern paper
Available at TAC:
Cutting mats
Irons and ironing boards
Rulers
Pencils
Pins
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Sarah Best is a lifelong apparel designer with a focus on knitwear and textile design. Her passion to sew and knit as a young girl led her to pursue an Apparel Design degree, with a Textile Arts minor, at VCU in Richmond, VA. Her career has included working for Armani Exchange and Ralph Lauren in New York City, and at Lands’ End in Wisconsin. She currently works as a contract designer and educator, expanding her creative interests across interiors and textile arts.
Website: sarahjobest.myportfolio.com
Social: bestabode_design
Color Wheel Quilt
Color Wheel Quilt
Wednesdays, October 29 and November 19, 6-9pm
Class level: Beginner Foundation Paper Piecing; Should have some sewing or quilting experience.
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Kaitlin Esche-Lyon (@quarterlifeleap)
Class fee: $145
Kaitlin created this foundation paper pieced Color Wheel Quilt pattern in 2022. This is a great beginner FPP pattern! And, it can also easily be modified into a tree skirt!
There are three repeating wedges throughout the quilt. The pattern will give you tons of repetition and practice to get your FPP skills going. Participants will have their choice of completing the Color Wheel Quilt or Tree Skirt.
During the first session, Kaitlin will teach you how to do foundation paper piecing, and will share tips and tricks to make it fun and not frustrating. After that you’ll be off to work on your wedges. There will be homework between sessions, it takes about an hour to make one wedge, and there are 24 in total. During the second session, we will be putting our wedges together, and will talk about basting, quilting, and binding.
The printed and digital pattern is included in the cost of the workshop.
Optional solid rainbow fabric kit available for $35, reach out to Kaitlin to request and pay for a fabric kit.
A detailed supplies list is outlined at the bottom of this page.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Kaitlin Esche-Lyon is a skilled quilter and textile artist known for her vibrant designs and innovative approach to the art of quilting. Blending traditional techniques with modern flair, Kaitlin’s work features bold colors, dynamic patterns, and thoughtful textures. Passionate about sharing her craft, she teaches workshops for quilters of all skill levels, fostering creativity and community. Inspired by nature, travel, and architecture, her pieces tell unique stories and have been featured in exhibitions and cherished as heirlooms. Kaitlin’s dedication to artistry and teaching continues to spread joy and community in the quilting world.
Website: www.quarterlifeleap.com
Social: @quarterlifeleap
COLOR WHEEL QUILT SUPPLIES
Required supplies:
Sewing Machine
Thread
Pins or clips
Rotary Cutter (with a new blade)
*Add-a-Quarter Ruler – Optional but recommended (you can try it out during the first session)
Glue Stick
Fabric Requirements (choose your size):
(24) Fat Quarters OR (24) ¼ yard cuts of fabric
½ yard of a Neutral Fabric
4 yards – Backing
½ yard - Binding
70” x 70” - Batting
Provided supplies:
Quarter Life Leap Pattern
Available at TAC:
Large cutting mats
Irons and ironing boards
Artful Felt: Designing Shawls with Wool and Silk
Artful Felt: Designing Shawls with Wool and Silk
This class is full. Please email us to be added to the waitlist.
Saturday, November 1, 9am-4pm
Class level: All skill levels welcome
Age requirements: 16+
Registration fee: $160
Teaching artist: Jennifer Angelo (@jangelo4000)
Discover the art of felting and create an exquisite silk shawl in this engaging, hands-on class. You'll learn essential felting techniques, with a special focus on working with silk lap—a luxurious material made of mulberry silk, known for its radiant sheen and feather-light feel.
Silk lap is like magic in fabric form: layers of delicate silk fibers that can be stretched to four times their original size and transformed into gossamer-like webs. When combined with a fine layer of wool and wet-felted, this material forms the foundation for a shawl that is not only stunning but also incredibly versatile—perfect for breezy evenings or as a timeless statement piece. By the end of this class, you'll have a one-of-a-kind silk shawl you'll cherish for years.
Embark on this creative journey and discover how to transform raw silk into wearable elegance!
Beginners are welcome, and students with prior felting experience will learn how to work with silk lap. Some upper body strength is required for rolling the scarf, as well as the ability to stand at a table during certain parts of the process. Join us for a creative, hands-on experience in felting!
What to bring:
One 4 cup plastic yogurt or any plastic container for soapy water felting solution
Scissors
2 old facecloths
Three large old bath or beach towels. You may drip water on the floor. Watch for spills. We don’t want anyone to slip.
Paper/pencil for taking notes.
2 plastic bags: 1 trash bag size, 1 grocery store size.
Accessories (yarn, lace, silk pieces) that may work for decorating your felted piece. Please bring them and talk with the instructor about their ability to be included. It helps if you know what they are made of (wool, cotton, synthetic).
Your favorite beverage, snacks, and lunch.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Apron (optional)
Note: All supplies for the project are included in the class fee.
REGISTER
Bio:
Angelo, with a PhD in occupational therapy, spent five years living in New Zealand, where she uncovered the wonderfully versatile world of felting. Her observational skills, refined through education and shaped by diverse environments—ranging from rolling landscapes and jutting rock formations to urban architecture—have added depth to her artistic perspective.
During her time in New Zealand, Angelo discovered felting, an ancient craft that opened up an entirely new realm of art for her. In addition to her more than 20 years of teaching at the university level, Jennifer has shared her expertise by instructing various wet felting classes catering to students of all skill levels. Notably, Jennifer consistently earns high praise for her effective step-by-step teaching approach.
Website: www.jangelo.com
Social: @jangelo4000
Granny Square Crochet
Granny Square Crochet
Tuesdays, November 4 and 11, 6-8pm
Class level: Need to be comfortable with chain stitch, slip stitch, and double crochet stitch
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Jane Grogan
Class fee: $80
Crocheted granny squares have been around forever. Perhaps they were created as a way to use up scraps of yarn or perhaps just to create unique and bright projects. Granny squares are popping up everywhere now—from potholders to afghans and from slippers to sweaters. The basic granny square construction is easily mastered and can be applied to create shapes other than the usual square!
Week One:
Crochet Foundations - Refresher on basic crochet stitches: chain, slip, and double crochet
Introduction to basic granny square construction
Week Two:
Continue with granny square construction – stitching and finishing
Start on your own project!
What to Bring:
Crochet hook size H
Scissors
Blunt tapestry needle
Pen & paper
Yarn for the first class will be provided
REGISTER
Bio:
Jane Grogan lives in Madison and is obsessed with a variety of fiber crafts. Jane learned to crochet over 40 years ago when yarn shops were scarce and “how-to” books were almost non-existent. After learning to crochet she expanded her interests to include knitting, spinning, and weaving. After years of working on her own projects, Jane decided to share her love of fiber crafts and started teaching more than 10 years ago. Jane has taught a variety of fiber classes for yarn shops, festivals, and community programs, including with the Wisconsin Craft Market (now closed), Madison Knitters’ Guild, Oregon (WI) School District, Black Sheep Gathering (Eugene, OR), Spry Whimsy Yarn Shop (Stoughton), and Midwest Fiber Folk Art Festival (IL), among other places.
Amigurumi for Beginners
Amigurumi for Beginners
Wednesdays, November 5, 12, and 19, 6-8pm
Class level: Beginner, but some basic crochet experience will be helpful
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Lindsey Swiggum
Class fee: $80
This class will teach students the basics of crochet, with a focus on beginner techniques and how to create simple 3-D forms through the craft of amigurumi. Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting stuffed animals or objects. In this class, participants will learn how to crochet using basic stitches, understand how to shape 3-D objects, and make their first amigurumi project.
By the end of the class, students will:
Understand key crochet stitches (chain, single crochet, slip stitch, increase, and decrease).
Learn how to read basic crochet patterns.
Master working in the round and shaping 3-D forms.
Complete their own small amigurumi project.
The course will be divided into three sessions. Each class will combine instructional time with hands-on practice. will receive a basic crochet pattern (a simple animal) to follow during the course. Lindsey will provide personalized guidance, answering any questions as students work on their projects. At the end of the course, students can share their creations with the class and receive tips for their next steps in amigurumi and crochet.
What to bring:
All supplies for this class will be provided. Just bring yourself!
REGISTER
Teaching artist bio:
Lindsey Swiggum is a Madison, WI-based artist. She learned how to crochet over 14 years ago with the help of her grandmother and is now excited to spread her love of crochet with her community. Lindsey is new to teaching classes but brings a wealth of skill and knowledge to her instruction. With years of personal experience and a deep passion for the craft, she is eager to share her expertise and guide students in their crochet journey with patience, encouragement, and a hands-on approach.
Social: @Loop.d.loopz
Website: www.loopdloopz.com
Creative Art Journaling
Creative Art Journaling
Thursdays, November 6 through 20, 6-8pm
Class level: All welcome!
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Angela Johnson
Class fee: $90
Do you want to level up your art journaling or begin an art journaling practice. In this three-week workshop we will use a variety of materials to create sketchbooks and journals. Come with an open mind to try a variety of techniques, do warm-up exercises, solve problems, and capture ideas and feelings on the fly.
Create a small gratitude journal as well as other unique small book forms.
Review from a past participant: “I loved that Angela had many small projects for us to explore in a short window of time. I learned a ton! Everything was fun and creative; a very relaxing workshop series where we got to play together. Angela was very welcoming and clearly knowledgeable, and I would love to take a class with her again.” - Pat
Limited to ten participants meeting over three sessions, this series is ideal for both beginning and advanced creatives and is open to ages 18+. Each session is two hours and registrants should commit to attending all three sessions.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Angela Johnson is a professional artist, creativity coach and educator based in Wisconsin. She earned a master’s in Art Education, an MA in Art and an MFA with a focus in photography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her areas of artistic expertise include: Art Journaling, Alternative photo processes, Bookmaking and box making, and Creativity Coaching.
Her work includes themes of nature, balance, and telling stories through individual and collective memories. She often incorporates scientific elements and concepts into her work. Collaborations with other artists and scientists energizes her creativity.
Johnson is a fixture in the Wisconsin arts scene, with 20+ years of experience maintaining public art studios, teaching workshops, facilitating programs, leading public art installations and lecturing at universities. She has worked in museums, elementary schools, senior centers, colleges and universities. She has inspired and helped people of every age — from toddlers to 95-year-olds — reaching far into the depths of their imagination to discover and channel their creativity.
Website: angelajohnsonartist.com
Social: @angelajohnsonartist
Introduction to Tablet Weaving
Introduction to Tablet Weaving
This class is full. Please email us to be added to the waitlist.
Saturdays, November 8 and 15, 9am-12pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 18+
Registration fee: $165
Teaching artist: Hannah Olson-Williams
Tablet weaving is an ancient technique that involves using small tablets with holes to weave intricate patterns. These tablets are threaded with different colored yarns and rotated to create sheds for passing the weft thread. The process results in the production of narrow woven bands, straps, or belts with detailed designs.
Throughout this hands-on workshop, participants will learn how to create tablet woven designs towards a final goal of creating a customized woven strap that can be used for a pet collar, watch band, bag strap, or many other possible purposes. Students will learn how to set up a continuous warp for tablet weaving, will gain an understanding of pattern design, and will learn the warping and weaving process.
The workshop will balance informative demonstrations with hands-on work time. During the first session, we will use Linda Hendrickson's continuous warping method to warp our own DIY tabletop loom setups, and will begin developing our own unique patterns. In session two, we’l continue weaving, address any troubleshooting needs, and learn how to finish our projects. Substantial work time will be allocated for individual exploration, allowing participants to weave their own unique designs.
Participants needn't have any prior experience weaving. This project does not require a loom, and all weaving materials will be provided. Our project will be tensioned using a DIY tabletop loom setup which participants can take home and use for future projects. The cost of supplies includes the cost of tablets, a shuttle, a tension board, a warp spreader, a stitch holder, pattern(s), and thread. The ability to sit and stand will be helpful as we will be standing at our DIY tabletop loom setups. By the end of the workshop, participants will not only have a beautiful woven piece but also all the necessary tools and skills to continue to explore tablet weaving at home.
Provided supplies:
25 tablets
Shuttle for band weaving
Tension board
Warp spreader
Stitch holder
Thread
Required supplies/What to bring:
Two ratcheting bar carpentry clamps (12” minimum). If this is not something you already own, Hannah recommends these from Harbor Freight. They are also available at Home Depot, Walmart, and/or probably a neighbor's garage! The important part is that the bars be rigid enough to hold tension and long enough to clamp to the table and the tension board while still leaving ample room for warping.
Hardware for pet collar, watch band, or bag strap (your choice!). Please note that hardware options will be discussed at the first class, so you may wait to purchase until after the first class. If you wants to create a keychain, Hannah has hardware for this you can use. For pet collars, Hannah recommends this Etsy shop. For watch bands, you’ll need to Google your specific watch to find matching hardware. The important thing is that the hardware must be able to accommodate a 1” band and ideally doesn't require the band to have holes (i.e. no prongs).
REGISTER
Teaching artist bio:
Hannah Olson-Williams is a self-taught hobbyist. From weaving and knitting to upcycling, she enjoys a variety of creative pursuits. Hannah loves the experimentation and problem-solving that come with weaving, and she's excited to share that process with her students!
Soft Cover Journal
Soft Cover Journal
Saturday, November 8, 12:30-4:30pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Susan Messer
Class fee: $95
Learn how to make soft cover flutter books from single sheets of paper in this introduction to the form. Inspiring in its simplicity and engaging in its playful range of possibilities, this accordion-style structure can present multiple pages and ideas in sequence or all at once.
During this workshop, we will learn the basics of working with paper, construct several practice models, and create at least one personally developed book for use as a small journal, sketchbook, or content-focused book work. Illustrated handouts will serve as instructional guides during the session and for future bookmaking experiences. Generous feedback, experimentation and play will be encouraged throughout!
All materials provided. The following materials will be provided for participants to use during the workshop:
Bone folders
Cutting surfaces
Matt knives
Scissors
Metal rulers
Triangles
Pencils
Various drawing tools for developing content/imagery
Glue sticks
Assorted commercial, fine art and decorative papers for book structures and covers
REGISTER
Bio:
Working with a combination of alternative print strategies and varied drawing and sculptural media, Susan Messer creates mixed media handmade books and drawings. In content, both studio practices explore personal narrative and cultural history and acknowledge the body as a persistent reference point in both imagery and approach to materials.
An experienced instructor in bookarts and drawing, Susan taught at UW-Whitewater for 34 years and continues to present workshops and lectures. Her approach to teaching is energetic - she’s enthusiastic, encouraging, and committed to supporting students in the process of discovery and artmaking experience. She received her MFA from Arizona State University and studied printmaking at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts.
Website: susanmesserart.com
Black Ash Plaited Basket
Black Ash Plaited Basket
This class is full. Please email us to be added to the waitlist.
Sunday, November 9, 12-4pm
Class level: All levels welcome
Age requirements: 12+ (16 and under must register with an adult)
Teaching artist: Liandra Skenandore (@skenandorestudio)
Class fee: $150
Black ash plaited baskets feature a beautiful diagonal plaited weave design that is intricate looking but quite simple and fun in construction. These baskets can be used to hold a variety of goods and foods or used for small storage.
In this class, students will work with prepared kits of black ash splint material to create one plaited basket that will measure approximately 5"x5"x5". Participants will weave the basket in the checker work weave pattern for the base and use the diagonal plaited weave pattern for the walls. Participants will learn how to finish their basket by tucking in the uprights into the basket body.
A log pounding, splint splitting, and material preparation demonstration will be done where students can observe the intricate and labor intensive process of attaining black ash splint material for basketry. Participants will also learn about Oneida and Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) traditions and the history of black ash basket weaving. A display table of baskets and basket books will be available for students to interact with.
All materials and tools will be provided by the instructor.
There is no prior basket weaving experience required but some mild hand strength and finger dexterity are necessary.
Individuals with tribal affiliation are invited to attend the workshop at a reduced cost. Please email elizabeth@textileartsmadison.org for more information.
REGISTER
Bio:
Liandra Skenandore is an emerging black ash basket weaver. She is an enrolled tribal citizen of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and descends from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Muscogee Creek Nation, and Seminole Nation of Oklahoma. In 2020, she apprenticed as a black ash basket maker under renowned black ash weaver April Stone (Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa) through the Mentor Artist Fellowship Program from the Native Arts and Cultures Foundation. Since completing her apprenticeship, Liandra continues to weave and now enjoys sharing and teaching the craft with various communities. She has taught black ash weaving with nonprofits and organizations such as Woodland Indian Art, Inc., Ukwakhwa Inc., Driftless Folk School, Folklore Village School, and elsewhere. She has also taught black ash basketry with tribes such as the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin and Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
Social: @skenandorestudio
Monthly Mini: Reusable Gift Bags
Monthly Mini: Reusable Gift Bags
Thursday, November 13, from 6:30-8:30pm
Class level: Beginner friendly; all levels welcome!
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Kaitlin Esche-Lyon (@quarterlifeleap)
Class fee: $50
Want to make a switch to reusable fabric gift bags? These drawstring bags are great for wrapping your loved one’s gifts. We’ll be making a medium 7" x 10" bag during class, but this pattern is easily adaptable to other sizes.
Monthly Minis are fun, two-hour sewing workshops. These short, low stress fiber art offerings are perfect as an evening unwinder or a date/friend night outing. Bring yourself and a beverage or snack and enjoy!
What to bring:
All supplies and tools are included. Bring your own sewing machine and fabric, only if you want to!
Optional: Sewing machine (bring your own or use one of TAC’s studio machines)
Optional:
At least a 21” x 8” piece of fabric
40” of ribbon, cording, webbing, or twill tape
What to Expect:
Step-by-step guidance: Learn the basics of sewing as you’re guided through a fun new skill-building project.
Beginner-friendly: No prior experience? No problem! We’ll cover all the essentials, including how to use a sewing machine and simple sewing techniques.
Creative customization: Choose from a variety of fabrics and personalize your project to match your style.
Relaxed atmosphere: Enjoy an informal and encouraging environment—perfect for sharing laughs and creativity with friends.
Leave with a finished project: Walk away with a beautiful handmade item and the confidence to tackle more sewing projects in the future! Step-by-step guidance: Learn the basics of sewing as you’re guided through a quick and easy fabric basket project.
You’ll Love It:
Short and sweet—great for busy schedules!
A perfect outing for friends, date nights, or solo creativity.
Build skills while making something you’ll use and love.
REGISTER
Bio:
Kaitlin Esche-Lyon is a skilled quilter and textile artist known for her vibrant designs and innovative approach to the art of quilting. Blending traditional techniques with modern flair, Kaitlin’s work features bold colors, dynamic patterns, and thoughtful textures. Passionate about sharing her craft, she teaches workshops for quilters of all skill levels, fostering creativity and community. Inspired by nature, travel, and architecture, her pieces tell unique stories and have been featured in exhibitions and cherished as heirlooms. Kaitlin’s dedication to artistry and teaching continues to spread joy and community in the quilting world.
Website: www.quarterlifeleap.com
Social: @quarterlifeleap
The Art of Improvisational Curves
The Art of Improvisational Curves
Saturday, November 15, 10am-1pm
Class level: Sewing experience using a sewing machine is a pre-requisite. Students don't need to have experience sewing curves.
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Maday Delgado (@sustainabletextiledesign)
Class fee: $115
Few shapes have the commanding presence that curves generate in any artistic medium. Curves are easily found in ordinary objects and the natural world. Organic, improv curves offer timeless design options sure to delight makers and spark their imagination. Join Maday as we immerse ourselves in improvisation, color, design, and curves!
Maday loves sewing curves and will share tips and tricks for achieving beautifully sewn curves in a variety of sizes, without templates. Sewing experience using a sewing machine is a pre-requisite. Students don't need to have experience sewing curves.
Students should bring an assortment of fabric colors and designs; fat quarters work well 8-10. machine in good working order, quarter inch foot or zigzag foot, neutral cotton thread, cutting mat and rotary cutter. fabric glue stick, fabric scissors, pins (optional).
What to Bring:
Sewing machine in working order with quarter-inch piecing foot or zig zag foot (if you’d like to use one of TAC’s studio machines during class, please email us to reserve one.)
New sewing machine needle
An assortment of fabric colors and designs; ~8-10 fat quarters would work well.
Neutral cotton thread
Fabric glue stick
Fabric scissors
Rotary cutter
Cutting mat (these are also available in the TAC studio to use)
Pins (optional)
REGISTER
Bio:
Maday is a prolific artist, arts educator, Janome America Artisan, and magazine contributor based in Wisconsin who is committed to bringing innovation and artistry to the forefront of her work. Learning from cultural textile traditions and exchanging powerful stories is a source of inspiration for her that she hopes to share with all. Maday’s goal is to unify students with different skill sets and share her love of art and vibrant textiles. She combines paint, weaving, hand-stitching, machine sewing, and embroidery to infuse her creations with energy and pay homage to her Cuban upbringing. Maday’s work has appeared in publications such as Curated Quilts; Spring, Love & Patchwork Magazine; Uppercase magazine; Beyond Words literary magazine; and the book “Quilted.”
Website: sustainabletextiledesign.com
Social: @sustainabletextiledesign
Block-Printed Tea Towels Inspired by Flowers & Plants (November 16, 2025)
Block-Printed Tea Towels Inspired by Flowers & Plants
Sunday, November 16, 12-4pm
Location: THIS CLASS TAKES PLACE AT Polka Press, 2051 Winnebago Ave
Class level: All experience levels welcome
Age requirements: 18 and older
Teaching artist: Bernie Witzack of bernie & zuzu (@bernieandzuzu)
Class fee: $160 (includes materials fee)
This workshop will cover all the basics of block printing, taking inspiration from flowers and plants! In the first half of the class, we’ll create our designs and learn to carve blocks. The second half of the class will be all about learning to print. You will leave the workshop tea towels featuring your own artwork! All of Bernie’s workshops focus on creativity, community, process over product, and learning over perfection.
What to bring:
Wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting ink on, and bring an apron if you have one. All other supplies are provided.
REGISTER
Bio:
Bernie Witzack of bernie & zuzu studied Studio Art at Beloit College and has been making and exhibiting her art ever since. She earned an MFA in Fine Art from the University of Michigan, focusing on improvisational drawing and painting. She also studied graphic design at Madison College and was working as a graphic designer before leaving the field to focus on her art full time. She launched bernie & zuzu in 2021, and creates handmade, hand-painted, and screen-printed goods in small batches with a special emphasis on bright, bold color, and playful shapes. Bernie has been a Madison Public Library artist-in-residence, most recently at Pinney Branch, and has extensive teaching experience.
Website: bernieandzuzu.com
Social: @bernieandzuzu
Exploring Monoprinting on Fabric
Exploring Monoprinting on Fabric
Saturday, November 22, 9am-3pm
Class level: All levels welcome
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Pat Bishop (@baumbishop)
Class fee: $170
Make your own fiber art using fabric, paint, a gelli plate and some unusual stamping tools. Expand your creativity with no quilting rules or rulers. It will be fun and easy! We will be making all over designs using whatever tools we want other than stamps. Not much planning involved, just playing!
We will talk about methods of quilting, and finishing/mounting your piece if desired. This fabric is also a great addition to your fabric stash. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on, we will be using acrylic paints.
No experience or skills necessary. Easy peasy.
What to Bring:
Larger stamps/stencils (optional) – anything that can be used as a simple stamp, get creative, (after used for stamping cannot be used for food) i.e. jar lids, potato masher, wine corks, mesh from onion bag, etc.
At least 2-3 yards of white or solid, light-colored fabric. Cotton works best. Old or stained linens work well.
Wear clothes you don’t mind getting paint on (paint apron optional)
Dollar Tree shower curtain or old shower curtain to protect surfaces, also to use to take home your masterpieces!
All other materials are provided.
REGISTER
Bio:
Pat Bishop is a juried artist member of Studio Art Quilt Associates (SAQA) and has been teaching for ten years. She exhibits her work in quilt and fine art venue internationally, and won numerous awards. Pat was recently a guest on the online show TheQuiltShow.com, and has written articles for Quilting Arts Magazine and Art Quilting Studio Magazine.
Website: www.patbishop.info
Social: @baumbishop
Cross Back Apron
Cross Back Apron
Saturday, November 22, 1-5pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 12+ and older (under 16 must sign up with an adult)
Teaching artist: Sarah Best
Class fee: $75
This cross back apron design is functional and beautiful, as well as beginner friendly and fun to make. Consider this piece as a perfect addition to holiday baking and crafting, or to give as a holiday gift! A variety of fabrics can be used, from linen to canvas to denim. Mixing colors and patterns for pockets and trims is fun and encouraged! Participants will leave the workshop with a finished cross back apron and a pattern to take home for future making. This is an excellent beginner sewing project and would be a great class for an adult and youth to take together!
Required Supplies:
Fabric: Medium weight, woven (ex. linen, cotton, canvas or denim) 1 1/2 yds @ 52" wide, pre-washed
Optional: 1/2 yd contrast fabric for pockets and binding, pre-washed
Thread: All-purpose sewing thread, color your choice
Sewing Machine: TAC does have a few machines if needed. Please let us know when you register if you would like to use a TAC machine.
Provided Supplies
Cutting supplies
Clips/ Pins
Irons and ironing boards
Pencils
REGISTER
Bio:
Sarah is a lifelong apparel designer with focus on knitwear and textile design. After graduation from UNC Chapel Hill, she took a retail job with Nordstrom which proved to be a great introduction to the business side of fashion. Her passion to sew and knit as a young girl led her to pursue the more creative side of the retail industry and head back to school for an Apparel Design degree, with a Textile Arts minor, at VCU in Richmond VA. Her career has included working for Armani Exchange and Ralph Lauren in NYC, then Lands’ End in Wisconsin. She is currently working as a contract designer, expanding her creative interests across interiors and textile arts.
Web: Sarah Best
Pin Loom Weaving (December 2025)
Pin Loom Weaving
Tuesdays, December 2 and 9 from 6-8pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Jane Grogan
Class fee: $95
If you are ready to weave without spending hours winding warp threads and making a big equipment investment, then pin loom weaving is for you! Pin looms have been around since the 1930’s and interest is once again at peak levels. Over the years, the standard 4” pin loom has been known as a Weave-It, Jiffy Loom, Weavette, Zoom Loom and Multi Loom. Once you learn the warping pattern of the pins, weaving is fast and fun. It is easy to experiment with color, texture and pattern weaving. And, the pin loom is perfectly sized to fit in every fiber person’s project bag!
Week One:
Introduction to warping and weaving on a pin loom.
Class project will be to weave two 4” squares to create a sachet bag.
Yarn and lavender for the project will be supplied by instructor.
Week Two:
Project ideas for pin loom weaving will be presented.
Projects will include weaving patterns into the square, making flower pins, clothing, accessories and more!
What to Bring:
scissors
pencil & paper.
Note: Looms will be available for class use and optional purchase ($45) from instructor
REGISTER
Bio:
Jane Grogan lives in Madison and is obsessed with a variety of fiber crafts. Jane learned to crochet over 40 years ago when yarn shops were scarce and “how-to” books were almost non-existent. After learning to crochet she expanded her interests to include knitting, spinning, and weaving. After years of working on her own projects, Jane decided to share her love of fiber crafts and started teaching more than 10 years ago. Jane has taught a variety of fiber classes for yarn shops, festivals, and community programs, including with the Wisconsin Craft Market (now closed), Madison Knitters’ Guild, Oregon (WI) School District, Black Sheep Gathering (Eugene, OR), Spry Whimsy Yarn Shop (Stoughton), and Midwest Fiber Folk Art Festival (IL), among other places.
Monthly Mini: Gnomes!
Monthly Mini: Gnomes!
Thursday, December 4, from 6:30-8:30pm
Class level: Beginner friendly; all levels welcome!
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Kaitlin Esche-Lyon (@quarterlifeleap)
Class fee: $50
Who doesn’t love a cute gnome! These gnomes can be made festive or in your favorite color. Gnomes will be roughly 6-7" tall, with a 2” square base.
What to bring:
All supplies and tools are included. Bring your own sewing machine and fabric, only if you want to!
Optional: Sewing machine (bring your own or use one of TAC’s studio machines)
Optional: Fabric scraps of any size!
What to Expect:
Step-by-step guidance: Learn the basics of sewing as you’re guided through a fun new skill-building project.
Beginner-friendly: No prior experience? No problem! We’ll cover all the essentials, including how to use a sewing machine and simple sewing techniques.
Creative customization: Choose from a variety of fabrics and personalize your project to match your style.
Relaxed atmosphere: Enjoy an informal and encouraging environment—perfect for sharing laughs and creativity with friends.
Leave with a finished project: Walk away with a beautiful handmade item and the confidence to tackle more sewing projects in the future! Step-by-step guidance: Learn the basics of sewing as you’re guided through a quick and easy fabric basket project.
You’ll Love It:
Short and sweet—great for busy schedules!
A perfect outing for friends, date nights, or solo creativity.
Build skills while making something you’ll use and love.
REGISTER
Bio:
Kaitlin Esche-Lyon is a skilled quilter and textile artist known for her vibrant designs and innovative approach to the art of quilting. Blending traditional techniques with modern flair, Kaitlin’s work features bold colors, dynamic patterns, and thoughtful textures. Passionate about sharing her craft, she teaches workshops for quilters of all skill levels, fostering creativity and community. Inspired by nature, travel, and architecture, her pieces tell unique stories and have been featured in exhibitions and cherished as heirlooms. Kaitlin’s dedication to artistry and teaching continues to spread joy and community in the quilting world.
Website: www.quarterlifeleap.com
Social: @quarterlifeleap
Fun Felt Holiday Ornaments
Fun Felt Holiday Ornaments
Saturday, December 6, 1-3pm
Class level: All levels welcome, but some basic sewing skills will be helpful. Younger students may need more help from their adult.
Age requirements: Open to all ages 8+ (Kids under 13 should enroll with an adult)
Teaching artist: Rain Foster
Class fee: $25
Make small stuffed felt holiday ornaments! Participants will learn embroidery stitches, couching, appliqué and blanket stitch, knotting, and beading. There are literally countless fun, easy techniques you can use to make beautiful decorations for the season!
Finished ornaments are perfect for cozy holiday decorating and gift giving. And, the class is perfect to do with a family member or friend to create shared memories.
Participants will learn a variety of techniques through this fun, small project that hold endless possibilities for future exploration.
All materials and tools will be provided. Just bring yourself!
REGISTER
Bio:
Rain Foster received her BFA from The Center for Creative Studies, Detroit, Michigan in 1973, with a major in Ceramics, and minors in Weaving and Watercolor. As an artist, Rain is inspired by the gifts of Nature: earth, air, fire, water, fabric shards and cast offs, bits of trees and plants, various natural fibers, and discarded detritus. From these materials, Rain conceives and creates sacred “Spirit Dolls.” Each doll is an expression of herself in the context of a specific moment. Some are political statements, some personal. All come from her heart. She also experiments with 2D forms of embroidery and other types of stitching. She believes that stitching is not only a form of creativity, but also meditation. She enjoys the companionship of working with all forms of thread and fiber in group settings, sharing inspiration and accomplishments.
Finish It!
Finish It!
Saturday, December 6, 1-4pm
Class level: All skill levels welcome, but should have basic quilting experience and a completed quilt top to bring to class
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Kaitlin Esche-Lyon (@quarterlifeleap)
Class fee: $65
This workshop will walk you through finishing your quilts. We’ll talk about batting choices, best practices for piecing your backing fabric, squaring up your quilt, basting techniques, machine & hand quilting options, and a couple ways to bind your quilt.
Students are encouraged to bring a finished quilt top for discussion. Participants will be provided a small practice quilt and extra fabric for binding.
Required Supplies
Sewing machine
Rotary cutter
Pins
Sewing clips
Seam Ripper
Pencil, Fabric Pen, and/or Hera Marker
Provided Supplies
TAC’s studio cutting mats, rulers, irons, and ironing boards will be available for use.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Kaitlin Esche-Lyon is a skilled quilter and textile artist known for her vibrant designs and innovative approach to the art of quilting. Blending traditional techniques with modern flair, Kaitlin’s work features bold colors, dynamic patterns, and thoughtful textures. Passionate about sharing her craft, she teaches workshops for quilters of all skill levels, fostering creativity and community. Inspired by nature, travel, and architecture, her pieces tell unique stories and have been featured in exhibitions and cherished as heirlooms. Kaitlin’s dedication to artistry and teaching continues to spread joy and community in the quilting world.
Website: www.quarterlifeleap.com
Social: @quarterlifeleap
Holiday Card Making
Holiday Card Making
Tuesday, December 9, 5:30-8:30pm
Class level: All!
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Sachi Komai
Class fee: $20
Send out one-of-a-kind cards this year for New Years, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Festivus!
Decorate four folded note cards and envelopes for the holidays by hand using rubber stamps, paper punches, decorative edge scissors, washi tape, sequins, glitter, ribbon, shipping tags, paper doilies, and vintage ephemera such as Golden books, sheet music, wrapping paper, maps, and more.
Sachi Komai from Anthology will bring all the supplies. Just bring yourself!
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Sachi Komai has been the co-owner of Anthology, a paper and gift shop in the heart of downtown Madison, with her sister for the past 17 years. She has an MFA from UW-Madison and has taught workshops in card making, book making, lettering and embroidery.
Website: anthologymadison.com
Needle Felted Winter Friends
Needle Felted Winter Friends
This workshop is full. Please email us to be added to the waitlist and/or join us for Michelle’s 2D ornament workshop on Decmeber 13.
Wednesday, December 10, 6-8pm
Class level: All levels welcome!
Age requirements: 14+
Teaching artist: Michelle Martin
Class fee: $40
Learn to needle felt while making a cute winter friend! We will use wool roving and felting needles to create three dimensional creatures. These can be made to stand on their own or simply add a ribbon to make into a winter ornament. We will cover the mechanics of of a felting needle and a brief history. Then, we will learn how to take clean and carded wool roving and sculpt it into our desired shape. By the end of class you’ll have a cute friend or ornament.
All materials will be provided by the instructor, wool, felting needle, and a small foam pad. Come ready to play and create!
REGISTER
Bio:
Michelle Martin (she/they) is an informally taught fiber artist living in Madison. They have dabbled in all things fiber art since being handed a drop spindle while in college. These days, they crochet, weave, wet felt, and spin, But their main crative love is needle felting. They love the process of felting and the freedom and creativity it offers. As a teacher, Michelle LOVES to encourage people to play, have fun, and get lost in the process. Helping students let go of “perfect” and that inner voice that says "I'm not artistic" is an absolute joy.
PJ Pants Party!
PJ Pants Party!
Saturday, December 13 from 9am-3pm
Class level: For students who have taken Sewing One or have previous sewing experience
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Sarah Best
Class fee: $90
Come sew fun pajama pants for you and your family! This class is a great opportunity to outfit your loved ones for Christmas morning or for gifting!
Choose your fabric ahead of the class - we suggested a woven cotton or flannel (not knits or anything with stretch). Then, we will sew them up based on the sizes you need and add some fun trim for the drawcord!
NOTE: Please fill out this questionnaire after registering to help prepare ahead.
A detailed supply list is below.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Sarah is a longtime apparel designer with focus on knitwear and textile design. After graduation from UNC Chapel Hill, she took a retail job with Nordstrom which proved to be a great introduction with the business side of fashion. Her passion to sew and knit as a young girl led her to pursue the more creative side of the retail industry and head back to school for an Apparel Design degree, with a Textile Arts minor, at VCU in Richmond VA. Her career has included working for Armani Exchange and Ralph Lauren in NYC, then Lands’ End in Wisconsin. She has designed and developed men’s and women’s clothing, ranging from basic knits to swimwear, sleepwear, and heritage sweaters. She is currently working as an educator and contract designer, expanding her creative interests across interiors and textile arts.
Website: Sarah Best
Required Supplies
3 yards fabric for each pant
Thread to match (2 spools)
Fabric scissors
Basic sewing supplies including pins, seam ripper, etc. (TAC’s studio has all of these items, so you can borrow anything you might during the class)
Sewing machine in good working order with a new needle (If you’d like to borrow one of TAC’s studio machines during the class, let us know using the survey link above)
Provided Supplies
Pattern
Drawstring Trim
2D Felted Winter Ornaments
2D Felted Winter Ornaments
Saturday, December 13, 10am-12pm
Class level: All levels welcome!
Age requirements: 12+ (under 16 should register with an adult)
Teaching artist: Michelle Martin
Class fee: $40
Learn to needle felt cute ornaments using cookie cutters as the template! We will learn about the mechanics of the felting needle and how to use it safely. Then, we will lay out wool roving inside the cookie cutter and felt away. We will finish our ornaments off by adding details with more wool (which is sort of like painting, but with wool). Participants can also embroider or sew beads onto their ornaments.
All materials provided by the instructor, including wool, felting needle, foam mat, ribbon, and cookie cutters.
REGISTER
Bio:
Michelle Martin (she/they) is an informally taught fiber artist living in Madison. They have dabbled in all things fiber art since being handed a drop spindle while in college. These days, they crochet, weave, wet felt, and spin, But their main crative love is needle felting. They love the process of felting and the freedom and creativity it offers. As a teacher, Michelle LOVES to encourage people to play, have fun, and get lost in the process. Helping students let go of “perfect” and that inner voice that says "I'm not artistic" is an absolute joy.
Holiday Gift Tags
Holiday Gift Tags
Saturday, December 13, 1-3pm
Class level: All are welcome!
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Roann Mathias
Class fee: $25
Get ready for the holidays with this beginner-friendly class. Create gift tags for teachers, family and friends. Class includes a brief overview of hand-lettering and pre-printed phrases to copy or trace over. You will learn simple watercolor techniques to paint a string of lights and some mistletoe.
What to Bring:
Scissors
All other materials will be provided by the instructor.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Roann Mathias is an artist and educator who is experienced in a variety of media including abstract painting, photography, watercolor, and lettering. All of these varied interests can be seen in her art. Her work has been published in Somerset Studio Magazine, Letter Arts Review and Cloth Paper Scissors magazine. She taught calligraphy and mixed media workshops for several years throughout the US and Canada. After receiving her MFA in 2015, she became an adjunct professor at Memphis College of Art and Southwest Tennessee Community College. Originally from New Orleans, the colorful architecture and plant life instilled in her a love of color and nature. Travels around the US and Europe inspired her love of nature and the landscape.
Website: roannmathias.com
Social: @roannmathias
Fast Construction by Hand and Machine
Fast Construction by Hand and Machine
Friday, January 30 through Sunday, February 1, 10am-4pm all three days
Class level: All experience levels welcome. Should have basic hand- and machine-sewing comfort.
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Heidi Parkes
Class fee: $600
Sometimes it’s fun to go fast! We will sew with intuition and convenience front of mind in this class focused on the exploration of shape, color, and visual movement. We’ll start with machine piecing to efficiently discover the personalities of our fabrics and will then transition into hand appliqué and piecing to complete our medium-sized quilt tops. On our last day, Heidi will share a bit about hand quilting, hand binding, and signing your work.
Your class fee includes on-demand recorded videos of each stitch, which you will view ahead of time and begin sewing before class meets. You will then attend in-person to view Heidi's quilts up close for inspiration, ask questions, see demonstrations, and address technical challenges as you sew your quilt top. A PDF with links to the pre-class instruction videos will be sent to registrants 4 weeks in advance of the class.
It will be possible to complete an entire quilt top by the end of class! A minimalist design can be completed within class, while a maximalist look can be achieved with additional sewing in the coming weeks or months. Large-scale appliqué, negative space, and incorporating the work sewn before class will allow for a beautiful abstract composition. A quilt top can be a lovely textile all on its own, but it can also be fun to quilt it! You're welcome to quilt in any style on your own after class, and students will receive a coupon code if they would like to take Heidi's on-demand Improv Hand Quilting class.
Required Supplies:
PLEASE SEE THIS PDF FOR A COMPLETE LIST OF REQUIRED AND OPTIONAL SUPPLIES.
REGISTER*
(*Note: All registrants will receive a PDF with links to the pre-class instruction videos 4 weeks in advance of the class. The value of these online instruction materials is $50, therefore any workshop cancellations made less than 4 weeks in advance of the class will incur a $50 cancellation fee in addition to TAC’s standard $10 cancellation fee.)
If you are traveling to Madison for this workshop and need lodging recommendations, please contact us.
Teaching Artist Bio:
Before Heidi Parkes was born in Chicago, IL in 1982, her grandmother organized a collaborative family quilt to commemorate her birth. Now based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, her quilting and mending celebrate the hand, and her works tug at memories and shared experience. Engaging in the worlds of art, quilts, mending, and social media, Heidi is an advocate for the domestic realms, slow stitching, and mindfulness; find her on Instagram and YouTube. She was the 2024 Pfister Hotel Artist in Residence, and is a 2005 graduate from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Heidi will be exhibiting at The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show in Madison this September. Soft Magic was her recent exhibition at the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts. Her quilts have received awards at Quilt National and QuiltCon, she has exhibited internationally in France and South Korea, and she has taught in Italy and Japan.
Website: heidiparkes.com
Social: @heidi.parkes
Sewing Two: Expand Your Skills
Sewing Two: Expand Your Skills
Tuesdays, October 14, 21, and 28 from 5:30-8:30pm
Class level: Intermediate (for students who have taken Sewing One or with some previous sewing experience)
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Sarah Best
Class fee: $200
Welcome to Sewing Two, a creative and supportive environment where you’ll expand your sewing skills and take your craftsmanship to the next level. This class is designed for students who are already familiar with basic machine operation, sewing straight seams, and using simple patterns.
Over the course of three sessions, you’ll build on those foundations, learning more advanced techniques that include various seam finishes, inserting zippers, and how to sew darts and pleats. We’ll work towards an easy pant project that will bring everything together.
Whether your goal is to sew your own clothes, make gifts, or add professional polish to your projects, this course will help you get there.
A detailed supply list is below.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Sarah is a longtime apparel designer with focus on knitwear and textile design. After graduation from UNC Chapel Hill, she took a retail job with Nordstrom which proved to be a great introduction with the business side of fashion. Her passion to sew and knit as a young girl led her to pursue the more creative side of the retail industry and head back to school for an Apparel Design degree, with a Textile Arts minor, at VCU in Richmond VA. Her career has included working for Armani Exchange and Ralph Lauren in NYC, then Lands’ End in Wisconsin. She has designed and developed men’s and women’s clothing, ranging from basic knits to swimwear, sleepwear, and heritage sweaters. She is currently working as an educator and contract designer, expanding her creative interests across interiors and textile arts.
Website: Sarah Best
Required Supplies (All but the sewing machine, fabric, and shears may be purchased as a kit from Sarah for $35. See below for more details):
Sewing Machine (if you would like to use one from TAC’s studio, please email us)
4 yards light- or mid-weight fabric (purchase after the first class; Sarah will provide guidance)
Pins - Basic Ball point
Pin cushion
Seam Ripper
Measuring Tape
Seam gauge
Tailors Chalk
Small scissors/ Snipes
Thread- multi-purpose- black , white, and gray
Optional (if you already own): Fabric Shears
Pattern - details to purchase will be shared before the first class
To purchase the required supplies as a kit, please email Sarah. Requests for Starter kits must be made by October 1.
Provided Supplies:
Rulers
Irons and Ironing Boards
Fabric Shears or Cutting Blade
Buttons
Lesson overviews
Sewing practice sheets
Learn to Crochet
Learn to Crochet
This class is full. Please email us to be added to the waitlist. Or, consider our other Beginner Crochet class offering this fall.
Tuesdays, October 7 - 28 from 6-8pm
Class level: Beginner
Age requirements: 16+
Teaching artist: Jane Grogan
Class fee: $90
This class will be your introduction to the fun and magic of the ever-evolving craft of crochet. Crochet is quite simple—it involves using a tool with a hook on one end to make a series of loops with yarn or thread and then pulling those loops through a new row of loops. There are 4-5 basic stitches in crochet but they all are the same basic technique, varied only by the number of times the yarn is wrapped around the hook.
Each week of this class will have presentation, demonstration, and work time. The key to learning crochet is practice-practice-practice and each class will focus on understanding the presentation followed by time for hands-on work.
For the final class, students can select a project to start with Jane’s guidance. This could be a hat, afghan, scarf, granny square - participants will have the know-how for a wide variety of options!
The class will proceed as follows:
Class one: Introduction to crochet! Learn chain stitch and single crochet stitch
Class two: More stitches! Learn the half-double, double, and triple stitches. At this class, each participant will also consult with Jane on the project they’d like to start in week three, as well as what supplies they may need to purchase.
Class three: Practice stitches, pattern reading, and starting your project!
Class four: More practice and guidance on your project.
What to bring:
Size H crochet hook
Yarn for first two weeks will be provided by instructor
Pattern, yarn, and hook(s) may need to be purchased for individual project students will start on in class three.
REGISTER
Bio:
Jane Grogan lives in Madison and is obsessed with a variety of fiber crafts. Jane learned to crochet over 40 years ago when yarn shops were scarce and “how-to” books were almost non-existent. After learning to crochet she expanded her interests to include knitting, spinning, and weaving. After years of working on her own projects, Jane decided to share her love of fiber crafts and started teaching more than 10 years ago. Jane has taught a variety of fiber classes for yarn shops, festivals, and community programs, including with the Wisconsin Craft Market (now closed), Madison Knitters’ Guild, Oregon (WI) School District, Black Sheep Gathering (Eugene, OR), Spry Whimsy Yarn Shop (Stoughton), and Midwest Fiber Folk Art Festival (IL), among other places.
Fall Creativity Coaching Group
Fall Creativity Coaching Group
Mondays, September 22 through October 27
10:00am-12:00pm
Class level: All welcome!
Age requirements: 18+
Teaching artist: Angela Johnson
Class fee: $195
Do you have a creative project you are working on and would like consistent and constructive feedback? Join creativity coach Angela Johnson for a series of small group supportive coaching sessions. Topics will include group sharing, question prompts, suggested homework, time to work in session, and more. Dream big! Your topic could include anything from fiber arts to creating a comic, from custom jam canning to designing a clothing label - the possibilities are wide!
Review from a past participant, "Creativity Coaching with Angela Johnson was a positive and uplifting experience. She helped me identify achievable artistic goals and how to clear roadblocks to achieving those goals. By meeting within a small group, we were able to gather strength and courage from each other...Angela is talented at helping artists define their goals, overcome sticking points, and prioritize their creative journey." -Deborah D
Limited to ten participants meeting over six sessions, this series is ideal for beginner to advanced crafters and creatives and is open to ages 18+. Each session is two hours and registrants should commit to attending all six sessions.
REGISTER
Teaching Artist Bio:
Angela Johnson is a professional artist, creativity coach and educator based in Wisconsin. She earned a master’s in Art Education, an MA in Art and an MFA with a focus in photography from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her areas of artistic expertise include: Art Journaling, Alternative photo processes, Bookmaking and box making, and Creativity Coaching.
Her work includes themes of nature, balance, and telling stories through individual and collective memories. She often incorporates scientific elements and concepts into her work. Collaborations with other artists and scientists energizes her creativity.
Johnson is a fixture in the Wisconsin arts scene, with 20+ years of experience maintaining public art studios, teaching workshops, facilitating programs, leading public art installations and lecturing at universities. She has worked in museums, elementary schools, senior centers, colleges and universities. She has inspired and helped people of every age — from toddlers to 95-year-olds — reaching far into the depths of their imagination to discover and channel their creativity.
Website: angelajohnsonartist.com
Social: @angelajohnsonartist