posted
on Sunday, March 20, 2016
When the weather is nice, but still too cold to work in the yard, it’s the best time to gather with friends and be creative. And why not get away together to discover new craft stores and take hands-on courses in bookbinding, cheesemaking, painting or knitting?
It’s all set. Head to Cedar Falls, check into your hotel, grab your craft tote from the car and head to class!
Kara Grupp of Three Pines Farms welcomes guests to her cozy barn for hands-on classes in zen doodling, soapmaking, cheesemaking and artisan bread (to name just a few). Her farm is a fifth-generation farm, rich in history and beauty. She posts her classes seasonally and they sell out early so be sure to subscribe to her newsletter so you can stay up-to-date on events and workshops happening at the farm.
Knitting and crocheting is back in fashion and our newest yarn shop, The Sheep Baatique, has supplies and classes for every skill level. The Sheep Baatique is just a block from our historic downtown and is friendly and inviting. Jeanie has even set aside Thursday evenings for "Knit and Wine Night," a social time to work on your yarn projects in the company of other knitters. Forget to purchase an item while you’re there? Don’t worry. You can order supplies from The Sheep Baatique’s online store. Classes change monthly so be sure to check out Jeanie’s website for current information (and sign up for her newsletter).
Cedar Valley Art & Wine painting studio offers unique and relaxing 3-hour painting sessions in a social environment. We think an evening painting at Cedar Valley Art & Wine with your friends is a perfect fit for a bridal shower, girls’ night out or a birthday bash. Schedule your group and bring only your favorite bottle of wine, beer or non-alcoholic beverage. Cedar Valley Art & Wine will supply the rest! There’s no need for painting experience, just uncover and discover your own creativity (with a little instruction from their artist). You may surprise yourself with what you accomplish and take home!
(photo courtesy: Three Pines Farm)
Not only is the Hearst Center for the Arts home to a sculpture garden, gift shop and two art galleries, it’s home to three classrooms for hands-on workshops in clay and wheel throwing, zen doodling, drawing, writing, painting and more. They’ve recently released their spring/summer 2016 brochure of classes and workshops for adults and children and the brochure is available online. A class at The Hearst is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon. But make note, you may need to come to class for a series of Saturdays (or weekdays) as many classes contain so much information it can’t be taught in one afternoon. Be sure to ask about their open ceramic studio, too!
The shops we’ve listed are only a small selection of what you’ll find in the Cedar Valley for creative classes and craft supplies. We hope you take a moment to review our list of Creative Activities and contact shops about their current list of classes. You’ll find classes for all levels of experience!
If you and your friends would like to kick-start your creativity in Cedar Falls, we’d be happy to help you with ideas for an overnight stay or a place to dine, just give us a call at 319-268-4266 (800-845-1955), stop by the Cedar Falls Visitor Center or send us an email. We look forward to seeing you in Cedar Falls!
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