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class descriptions

BASIC SEWING 101 - PILLOWS
so you ended up with aunt edna's sewing machine and it's been gathering dust in the garage...bring your machine down and we'll set you up with all the basics. learn how to thread your machine, load and change the bobbin, back tack, drafting a simple pattern, cutting, a bit about fabric, what supplies you need and simple sewing techniques-like basic straight stitches and zig-zag stitches (used for appliques). then you’ll use your new skills to create an adorable pillow accented with an applique.

*please bring... your sewing machine and the manual for it-if you don’t have the manual check out sew4less.com or contact the manufacturer (if you don’t have a machine let us know- we have a few extras), 3/4 to 1 yard of fabric for your pillow that’s not stretchy and any scraps for appliques or embellishments like buttons, ribbon etc. (if you don’t have this you can choose from our fabrics and notions.)

 

SEWING PAJAMA PANTS & APPLIQUE CAMISOLE
utilize your basic sewing sewing skills and make comfy pants and embellish a camisole with a matching applique to create a fabulous set for your next pajama party or just look to hang around in. you'll learn how to work from a pattern. after the class you’ll have your pajama set and take home a pattern and all the knowledge to make more p.j.’s.

*please have basic knowledge of the sewing machine and straight and zig-zag stitches or take our basic sewing 101 class.

*please bring... your sewing machine (if you don’t have a machine let us know- we have a few extras), 2 yards of fabric for your pants that’s not stretchy-cotton or flannel would be best and 1/4 yard of a contrasting fabric for the tie and appliques, and scraps for appliques or embellishments like buttons, ribbon etc... also bring a tank top or tee to match your pants that will can/will reconstruct/embellish to make a matching set.

 

RETRO APRONS
next time your in the kitchen look super stylish in your vintage inspired apron. we’ll make a pattern, design, cut and sew a full aprons with pockets in this class. you’ll leave with your new apron, a pattern and all the know-how to make more aprons at home.

*please have basic knowledge of the sewing machine and straight and zig-zag stitches or take our basic sewing 101 class.

*please bring... your sewing machine (if you don’t have a machine let us know- we have a few extras), 1 1/2 -2 yards of fabric for your apron that’s not stretchy (a cotton print works the best) and any scraps (for pockets, ties, appliques or embellishments like buttons, ribbon etc.

 

PURSES 101
in this fun and truly functional class you'll create a purse to cart around all your stuff. first we'll make a pattern for your bag and then we'll get down to business and sew it. feel free to bring any embellishments for your project to create appliques, pockets or other extras.

*please have basic knowledge of the sewing machine and straight and zig-zag stitches or take our basic sewing 101 class.

*please bring... your sewing machine (if you don’t have a machine let us know- we have a few extras), bring 1 yard of fabric for the outer bag-a medium weight-like denim, canvas or heavy cotton and 1 yard of fabric for the lining-cotton or similar weight.

 

CREATING HOMEMADE SPA GOODIES
next time you slip into the bath and relax you can use your own handmade bath and body goodies. we'll create a full line of products focusing on natural and easy to find ingredients and then personalize them with creative packaging using fabulous papers and collage materials. you'll leave this class with three full sets including salt and sugar scrubs, bath 'cookies' (exfoliating bath salt bars that look like cookies), soaps, bath salt sachets, moisturizing lip balms, and lip glosses perfect to keep or give as gifts.

*bring in any papers or images to decorate your containers and any empty jars or feel free to use ours. you'll also get a resource list for ingridients so you can make more goodies at home.

MARBLE COLLAGE ACCESSORIES
we combine elements of collage, jewelry and ceramics in this class to create personalized beads from clay, photos and marbles. then we use the beads to make bracelets, hair doo-dads, keychains, earrings and a necklace. you don’t need any prior skills, just a little imagination.

*please bring any beads or little 1/2 inch by 1/2 photos for your creations or feel free to use our pictures and embellishments.

 

BOOKMAKING
instead of buying a journal or sketchbook make your own. we bring bookmaking down to the basics so you can make blank books simply and with little cost. you’ll learn about some essential techniques, terminology and applications for the tools used to create professional handmade books. we’ll provide all the supplies and know how for this project and you’ll leave with your books, all the smarts to make more in varying sizes and a guidebook including supply resources to help you along.

*please bring... any fun papers or images for you book if you have them or feel free to choose from our selection.

 

SCREENPRINTING 101
this intensive workshop is designed to give you a basic understanding of the art of screenprinting. you will each build your own one color press to use in class and take home as well as explore water-based printing, go over the basic supplies and techniques, print your images on both paper and fabric and learn about drying methods. this class focuses on printing techniques and not on burning a screen. we will however explore some easy diy ways to get our images onto the screen and ready to print. when you leave the class you’ll have all the know how to print everything from your own stationary and paper goods to clothing. you'll also have all the supplies to keep on printing at home... including: your own one color press, squeggee, and screen with your image on it.

*you will need to email your black and white image for printing one week before class.

*please bring one to 5 pieces of clothing to print your image on as well as any paper you’d like to print on.

 

QUICK HANDMADE CRAFTS

in this fun and efficient class we will master new skills and whip out 15 ready to go professional looking crafts to keep or have on hand for last minute gifts. we’ll make natural soy candles and pair them with a cute decoupaged matchboxes, a few sets of marble collage magnets in tins accented with papers, a selection of brooches, pins and learn the basic techniques of making little books that you can use as blank journals or creative books dedicated to someone special.

*please bring any cute papers, fabrics for collage as well as any containers or jars for candles or feel free to use ours!

CRAFTY KIDS PARTY
your little one has a birthday coming up- instead of the same old cake and games routine try a crafty party! random nicole will come to the party (or you can have it in our studio) with all the supplies to turn the day into an unforgettable experience of crafting and fun. the best part is the kids get to take home thier very own creations. we can tailor a class and project to fit the need, age and skills of the guests. some projects include... decoupaged birdhouses, applique tees, slumber party sleeping tee and tote, ‘dough’ jewelry, screenprinting, my first journal, bath & body goodies and more!

*fee, date and time depend on the class. just email nicole for details or to set-up a party.

TRANFORMING YOUR TEES
this long-awaited class is the perfect chance to transform your old tees into one of a kind edgy tops. so clean out your closet or head to thrift store and pick up those forgotten tees that are too big or too plain & boring. in this class we will reconstruct and refashion your tees giving them new life through unique techniques in cutting, sewing, appliqué, ruching, stitching, embellishing and stenciling. the best part is you don’t need previous crafting experience--- just show up with 4-8 tees (at least 1, preferably 2 that are too big) that you’re ready to transform.

*please bring any embellishments, fabrics, notions etc to spice up your tees or feel free to use ours!

CREATING SUSTAINABLE MOSS TERRARIUMS
with roots in victorian england, the terrarium (or wardian cases as they
were originally) is a garden craft that has adapted easily to contemporary
styles. rather than the diminutive stained glass palaces that were in vogue
in the 1900s, we’ve pared the terrarium down to miniature moss wonderlands
comfortably housed in anything from an empty pickle jar to a footed
apothecary. learn how to create a sustainable moss terrarium along with
polymer clay landscaping, and leave with two completed pieces. green thumb
not necessary.


*we’ll have a selection of containers and mosses available, but if you have
something special in mind we encourage you to bring it along.

HOW TO USE A FLOWER LOOM TO CREATE VINTAGE INSPIRED FLOWERS
Learn all the skills it takes to use a flower loom. You'll start with a basic flower as well as other variations and finishing methods.
Loomed flowers were super popular in the 60s + 70s - you might even remember you mom or grandmother making them. This class will focus on flowers made with raffia but you'll be able to use the same skills to also make flowers using yarn, string and even wire. We will finish by showing you how to turn your completed flowers into brooches and hair clips.

TRUFFLES: SIMPLE & SINFUL
courtney donley, owner of chocolate company, C Salt Gourmet, reveals the stunningly simple secrets of making traditional, hand rolled truffles that are sinfully decadent. you’ll learn a basic truffle recipe that can be used to make truffles in a huge variety of flavors, including raspberry, coffee, orange, and currant. despite their simplicity, truffles always impress—especially when they are creatively packaged. repurpose or decorate an interesting box you’ve been holding onto, or perhaps a vintage canister, tea cup, wine glass or votive holder! after the preparation demo, you’ll get to roll your own truffles, and take them home, beautifully packaged in the container you brought. In addition to the recipe ingredients, we’ll have cellophane wrap, ribbon and a few empty boxes on hand, just in case.
* Please bring… an interesting container to bring your truffles home in. Estimate 4-6 take home truffles per participant (plus some samples while we
work!)
** If you have a nut allergy, please be forewarned that almonds will be used in one of the truffle recipes
** Liqueurs will be used in small quantities in these recipes. A non-alcoholic alternative can be made available, on request.

OC CRAFT CLUB
FREE!!! open house for all local crafters and crafty indie business owners-come down and congregate with other local crafters for a night of drinks, snacks and informal crafting... RSVP required!
* please bring a work in progress

MEETS EVERY 3RD THURSDAY NIGHT FROM 6-9pm

RSVP required! to rsvp go to the calendar


CREATING YO YO NECKLACES
In this unique class you learn the classic retro technique of creating yo-yo’s from fabric. Fabric yo-yo’s can be used for a variety of craft projects including making quilts, pillow covers, pins and handbags… but in this class we’ll use them to create truly artsy crafty necklaces. Not only will you learn how to make yo-yo’s but you’ll also learn how to piece them together and some basic jewelry making techniques as you turn your little fabric art pieces into an edgy funky necklace perfect to add a little flair and creativity to any outfit.


* Please bring… any fabric scraps to work with or just use ours!

KNITTY CRITTERS 101 - an intro to knitting critters

for: kids and adults 10 years and up
beginner and intermediate level


use your imagination to create one of a kind critters like the ones you see at craft shows. you will use 5 double pointed needles to knit in the round (really, not that scary) or knit flat depending on knitting skill level. we will begin with a simple creature pattern and add embellishments to the finished project to make a unique character. make your critter child safe and it makes a great gift for kids.
beginner: will work the pattern flat with a pair of size 8 needles, yarn of medium weight (yarn label with have suggested needle size for that weight) scissors, felt, and large embroidery needle
intermediate: will use need 5 size 8 double pointed needles, yarn of medium weight (yarn label with have suggested needle size for that weight), scissors, and large embroidery needle


*please bring your own yarn and knitting needles or you can purchase them at the class. other optional supplies: an embroidery needle and floss, felt, scrap fabric, buttons, hot glue gun, stuffing, etc. that you can use to embellish your critter.

KNITTING FINGERLESS GLOVES: KNITTING 101
beginner and intermediate levels
make cute fingerless gloves that make a fashion statement, keep you warm, and are functional. you will use 5 double pointed needles to knit in the round (really, not that scary). you will learn to make a gusset for the thumb with the simple use of increases. we will follow a basic pattern that will be a snap to make. advanced knitters can create their own designs with lace or adjust length or try different ribbing techniques for the cuff.
beginner: will use larger needles and heavier weight yarn and will work the pattern flat
bring size 8 needles, yarn of medium weight (yarn label with have suggested needle size for that weight) scissors, and large embroidery needle
intermediate: will use smaller needles and sock yarn and will work the pattern in the round. bring 5 size 3 double pointed needles, sock yarn, scissors and large embroidery needle

*please bring yarn and knitting needles or they can be purchased at the time of the class

KNITING SOCKS 101
advanced beginner or intermediate
tired of hats and scarves? try socks! the skills you learn while making the sock will open up the world of the knitting language. you will learn to knit with 5 needles (not as scary as it sounds), knitting short rows, and turning of the heel, which will feel like magic. these techniques will give you the knowledge to tackle most knitting patterns. the sock is so versatile. we will begin with a simple sock pattern and for those who are advanced you will have the opportunity design your own cuffs with lace or adjust length or try different ribbing techniques.

*basic knitting skills are needed

*please bring sock yarn and and a set of 5 size 3 double pointed needles and yarn embroidery needle or you can purchase these supplies at the time of the class.

 

THE KNITTY GRITTY- knitting 101 - all the basics
do you have your grandma’s knitting needles and have no idea what to do with them? do you wanna be able to whip up an adorable gift made with love for your kid, niece, nephew, grandchild? or maybe just for yourself. have you heard how relaxing knitting can be, and you want some more of that in your life? come on down and learn the very basics of knitting…and walk away with the know how to make a stylish cowl or scarf (for this really cold california weather).


*Bring: One skein (ball) of Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick and Quick Yarn; and One set of Size US 15 knitting needles (scarf length- 10 inches long)

 

BEGINING KNITTING AND CROCHETING MONDAY NIGHT DROP-IN CLASS
are you interested in learning to knit or crochet?
you’ll love our beginning knitting and crocheting classes
go at your own pace. join at anytime…and come at anytime.
choose from some of the projects shown here or bring your own.

*please bring your own needles and yarn or contact us to purchase a kit in class

*every monday night
Punch Card: $50 for 5 classes
Individual Class: $15

CANDLES 101- an intro to making soy candles
create your own incredibly scented container candles and votives using soy wax – a great alternative to paraffin for a cleaner longer burning candle that doesn’t release carcinogens. your finished candles will be gift ready when you decorate the jars and pair them with a decoupaged matchbox. you’ll also find out where to get all the supplies to keep making more candles at home.

*please bring any containers you want to use for candles or paper and collage materials to decoupage with or feel free to use ours.


VINTAGE INSPIRED ECO-PAPER MACHE BROOCHES & PINS & BRACELETS
this unique class transforms discarded “trash” like cardboard, paper and newspaper into vintage inspired handmade brooches & bracelets with the help of cathy of california. cathy’s expert knowledge of crafting and vintage crafts come together in this workshop that combines both of her loves. not only will you leave class with your one of a kind brooch that looks like a lucky find from an estate sale but you’ll have all the skills to make more brooches and even turn these ‘flowers’ into jewelry, pendants and more!!!



SCRABBLE TILE COLLAGE PENDANTS FOR NECKLACES, JEWELRY & MORE
have you ever seen those adorable collage pendant necklaces and thought…

“i could do that! hmmm… but how?”
well… your chance is here! with the help of some veteran craft kitchen know how… you’ll be collaging your way into one of a kind artsy jewelry that reflects your sense of style. you’ll discover how simple, inexpensive and fun it is to create your own pendants and turn them into necklaces, keychains, earrings, and more!
start searching through magazines, photos, scrapbook paper and other random things for your images… (you can truly personalize them for yourself or a gifts if you use your own photos or friends and family.
maybe you're feeling a bit creatively challenged…don’t fear!…we will have plenty of images for you to choose from.
hint: you can print images at home or upload them to any photo printing website and you can even risize them there!