Founded in Hanover nearly 70 years ago, CraftStudies has worked to help artists grow through hands-on activities with a wide range of materials, tools, and processes. Today, at CraftStudies’ new home in White River Junction, teaching artists and volunteer studio monitors guide budding artists in a wide range of classes geared toward all ages and skill levels.

Executive Director Lisa Brahms tells us more about the organization and what it offers.

 

Q: What classes do you offer? What are the prices?

A: We offer a range of one-day workshops and multiweek classes in ceramics; jewelry design with silver, brass, and copper; and fiber arts such as sewing, bookbinding, papermaking, basketry, rug hooking, needlepoint, and even shoemaking, just to name a few!

Prices range from $75 to over $300, depending on the length, topic, and materials. We work to provide workshops and classes for everyone, from those who are just dabbling in a new craft to those who have years of experience. We do offer scholarships and discounted daytime classes for seniors through a partnership with Bugbee Senior Center.

 

Q: Do you offer any classes specifically for children? What ages and skill levels?

A: Yes, we currently offer after-school classes, summer camps, and family workshops for kids, ages 6 to 14, and are developing learning experiences for young children and teens. All levels are welcome. We also partner with the Hartford Parks & Recreation Department and local schools to offer special programs for students and families.

 

Q: Will you be offering classes over winter break for students who aren’t in school?

A: Not this year. As we move through our first year in our new space, we are developing such programs and are hoping to offer this next year.

 

Q: Do you host private parties and events? How does that process work?

A: Yes, we certainly do! Each studio can accommodate between 6 and 12 people, and we offer a range of learning experiences for small groups, such as wheel throwing and hand-building with clay; sewing bags, pouches, and PJs; and even silver friendship rings. Just email us at [email protected] to find out more.

 

Q: Do you offer drop-in classes? If so, how does that work?

A: Not currently.

 

Q: Are one-on-one lessons an option for students?

A: Yes! We offer private instruction in most areas. We match students with the right Teaching Artist to achieve their individualized learning goals.

 

Q: If someone needs to cancel a scheduled class, what does that process look like? Do they receive a refund?

A: We offer a full refund for registrations that are canceled up to five days in advance of the scheduled class or workshop.