Creative Classes
Wintertime is the perfect time to learn that new skill or take that workshop that you just didn’t have time for during the hustle and bustle of the warmer months. There’s a natural slowing down that comes along with colder weather, and it allows us a bit of space mentally to reflect on the things we really want to do, and a bit of space schedule-wise to go out and actually do those things. Huron County is lucky to be full of so many talented artists, skilled crafters, and great teachers that don’t let the drop in temperature dissuade them from sharing their knowledge through a variety of classes, workshops, and kits - there’s never been a better time to pick up a new hobby or hone a rusty skill. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Witchy Winter Workshops
Goderich’s most curious new shop, The Mystical Willow, is going to be several educational and crafty workshops over the winter that are a perfect way to set your intentions for the coming year. You can learn how to make dream catchers, or get your start read tarot cards. Your future is in your hands!
All workshops are held at:
The Mystical Willow
79 Hamilton St, Goderich
hello@themysticalwillow.com
Unlocking the Artist Within
For artists of all skill levels who want to explore the fringes of visual representation, Blyth’s Wild Goose Studio is offering an introduction to abstract art that will be facilitated by artist Nancy MacNabb on Jan 27. The workshop is $150, and pre-registration is required. All materials and tools will be provided, including a blank 24x24 canvas.
Jan 27
Completely Unplanned
An Introduction to Abstract Art
Facilitated by Artist Nancy MacNabb
Wild Goose Studio Canada
432 Queen St
wildgoosestudiocanada@yahoo.com
519-386-5868
On Jan 27, Cindy Pearce of Lucknow’s Conscious Creations Art will be holding a Valentine’s Day themed stained glass workshop at Victoria Park Gallery and Gift Shop. The class is suitable for all skill levels, and attendees will get to choose one of three designs to create. The workshop is $160 and includes all materials. A 50% deposit is required to hold your place.
Jan 27
Valentine’s Day Stained Glass
With Cindy Pearce
consciouscreations9@gmail.com
519 573 4082
Fun with Fabric
The Quilt Kitchen in Exeter has a lot of ways to improve your quilting skills. They offer a number of quilting courses in-person, but early registration is recommended as class size is very limited. Luckily, they also have the option of learning through Zoom. The Quilt Kitchen has a two day quilting tutorial coming up on Feb 21 and Mar 6. Joan Robinson is the teacher, and the theme is “All Things Winter.” Every participant will be given the chance to quilt along to make their own wintery lap quilt. The course costs $80 plus materials - everything needed for the project is available in store. In class spots are limited and must be registered in advance, but Zoom participation is encouraged!
February 21 and March 6
“All Things Winter” Quilting Course
At The Quilt Kitchen
$80 + kit and necessary supplies
thequiltkitchen.ca
226 735 3676
Throw an Artsy Party
If you’re looking to explore your creative side with a few of your closest friends, consider booking an evening with Mandy’s Creative Touch in Goderich or arrange an outing to Country Clay Cafe in Wingham. If painting is your interest, you can book a private paint party for between 6 and 15 people, at the cost of $30 per painter. The party will provide all necessary supplies, including a canvas for each guest. If pottery is more your style, Country Clay Cafe offers a variety of clay-based workshops. Whether you want to make a unique piece by hand or learn to work with a pottery wheel, all you need to do is book your workshop online. Workshops are available for individuals or groups, and all materials are provided.
Book a Painting Party
Mandy’s Creative Touch Studio
Goderich
mandyscreativetouch.com
519 955 3493
Book a Pottery Class
Country Clay Cafe
Wingham
countryclaycafe.ca
778 874 3334
Learn From Home with Craft Kits
If you’d rather stay at home to do your crafting on your own time, try a DIY craft kit! FACTS in Blyth carries a great series of rug hooking kits designed by Marjorie Duizer. Each kit comes with a link to an introductory online lesson recorder by Duizer that leads you through the project step-by-step. Looking for a quick project with striking results? Head to Elizabeth’s Art Gallery and pick up one of the simple craft kits they carry, like the charming Hook, Line, and Tinker Embroidery Kit series. They come in a variety of great patterns!
Marjorie Duizer Rug Hooking Kits
At FACTS
166 Dinsley St
Blyth
factsblyth.ca
Craft Kits
at Elizabeth’s Art Gallery
54 Courthouse Sq
Goderich
elizabethsartgallery.ca
Hopefully at least one of these ideas can help keep your creative fire burning all winter long!