The Craft Center is always adding new classes in such areas as pottery, weaving, quilting, jewelry, and others. To get a list of current classes, email appalachianartscenter@gmail.com, call the Center at 865-494-9854, or stop by the Center at 2716 Andersonville Highway 61, one mile east of I-75 Clinton/Norris Exit 122, across from the Museum of Appalachia.

If you would like to receive occasional email updates about classes or other events at the Center, please email appalachianartscenter@gmail.com. Or consider becoming a member and receive out monthly newsletter with class listings and other information and $10 off class fees. See our membership page.

To register for a class, stop by the Appalachian Arts Craft Center at 2716 Andersonville Highway, Norris, TN, or call 865-494-9854 or email appalachianartscenter@gmail.com. Please note that your registration is not complete until you have paid for the class (see class policies below).

 CURRENT CLASSES (as of 4/10/2013)

THE ART OF HANDMADE BOOKS, with Bob Meadows Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

In this workshop, students will complete a couple of basic hardback books using Oriental papers, bookboard, archival glues and linen threads. They will leave with the skills and knowledge to create two styles of books. Bob Meadows of Knoxville has a background in graphic design and has been making books since discovering the craft at the John C. Campbell Folk School in 2004. He now teaches at the Folk School and other venues. He says it is the perfect medium for combining a love of words, calligraphy, watercolor, pho- tography, graphic design and general crafting. Students do not have to have any experience with book building, but basic craft skills help. Students need to bring scissors, pencil, ruler, craft knife and a cutting mat. All other materials will be supplied. Registration deadline April 8. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by March 13 and the cost is $55 for Craft Center members, $65 for nonmembers. After March 13 Cost : $65/$75. Prices include most materials. All Levels.

 

INTRODUCTION TO CROCHETING, with Brenda Bottoms Saturday, April 27 and Saturday, May 4, 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (bring lunch for question/answer session break)

Have you always wanted to learn to crochet but never taken the time? Do you need to refresh your crochet skills? If your answer is yes, then this beginning class is for you. Brenda Bottoms is an accomplished crochet artist who enjoys teaching others her techniques to make the perfect crochet piece. Plus, you are sure to have a great time learning to crochet with Brenda! There will also be follow up intermediate classes available if you want to continue to learn more advanced skills. Registration deadline: April 20. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by April 1 and the cost is $50 for Craft Center members, $60 for nonmembers. After April 1 Cost: $55 / $65. Materials Fee: $10 to be paid to teacher at the first class and includes a skein of yarn and a hook. Beginning.

 

 
FIRST LINE – FIRST PAGE – FIRST CHAPTER, with Kathleen Fearing Thursday, May 16, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Are you interested in getting started with a writing project, but don’t know how to begin? Have you dabbled in writing but would like a little expertise to spur you on? Would you like a published author to give you some input on your writing? This workshop is for you. Published writer and poet Kathleen Fearing will talk about writing techniques and tricks of the trade to get you motivated and to improve your writing. This will be an interactive class between the teacher and the students. Students are welcome to bring a piece of writing, but this is not necessary. Kathleen Fearing is a teacher and the author of several children’s books and books of poetry. Registration deadline: May 9. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by April 30 and the cost is $15 for Craft Center Members, $20 for nonmembers. After April 30 Cost: $20 / $25. Beginning.

 
JEWELRY 101, with Kathy Seely Saturday, May 18, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This class will teach you how to correctly use the parts that hold jewelry together so that your jewelry designs are secure and wearable. We will use beads, headpins, jewelry wire, clasps and jumprings and learn the use of basic jewelry tools. You will design your own earrings, bracelet , necklace or whatever else you want to work on during the class. Students should be able to complete at least two pieces of jewelry. All materials will be provided but if you have special beads, charms, etc that you would like to incor- porate into your design you may bring them. Registration deadline: May 18 Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by April 27 and the cost is $35 for Craft Center members, $40 for nonmembers. After April 27 Cost: $45 / $55. Materials Fee: $5 to be paid to teacher at the first class. Beginning.

 

HANDBUILDING WITH CLAY, with Janet McCracken Five Fridays: May 24 and 31, June 7, 14 and 21 plus one other Friday to be determined, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This is for students new to clay who want to see if it’s a craft they’d like to pursue, as well as for students who have had some experience with clay but would like to try more techniques in handbuilding. Long-time potter and teacher Janet McCracken will cover several techniques like pinching, coil, and slab, and students will get to make several pieces over the first four sessions. Members of the class will decide on a mutually acceptable date where everyone can come back and glaze the pieces. This is a good class for students to have before exploring pottery on the wheel. Registration deadline May 17 Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by May 10 and the cost is $40 for Craft Center members, $50 for nonmembers. After May 10 Cost: $50 for Craft Center members; $60 for non- members. All students must also pay a $40 studio fee to the Pottery Department on the first day for clay, glaze and firing. Beginning.

 
FABRIC PAINTING, with Diane Getty Saturday, June 1, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 2, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

In this class you will use fabric paints, not to be confused with dyes. Fabric paints are easy to work with and colorfast. Using light-sensitive paints, students will experiment with color mixing and a variety of techniques to create colorful and complex fabrics. Sun-prints, salt-texture and a number of methods of patterning will be explored. Participants will work on cotton and silk fabrics that can subsequently be used in collage or other projects such as bags, pillow tops or scarves. Sunday will be an open studio day which can be used to continue work or get advise on other projects you may have started. Bring lunch on Saturday. Registration deadline: May 25. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by May 10 and the cost is $50 for Craft Center Members, $60 for nonmembers. After May 10 Cost: $60 / $70. Sunday Only: Open Studio day $25 for Craft Center Members, $35 for nonmembers. Stu- dents will need to provide their own fabric and a few other supplies (a list will be given to those who register), but paints will be provided for an additional $5 per person per day. Beginning.

 
KID’S CRAFT CAMP Monday – Friday, June 17 – 21 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. AGES 7-12.

The Appalachian Arts Craft Center has been teaching young people about crafts for more than 30 years. This camp teaches children about traditional Appalachian crafts as well as contemporary crafts. This year the camp will have pro jects like weaving, sewing, making baskets, making recycled paper, and other paper crafts. All crafts are suitable for boys and girls. Kids need to bring a packed lunch each day. $85 if registered by June 3; after June 3 $95. Some scholarships may be available. Call for more information.

 
KNITTED BEAD CUFF BRACELET, with Mimi Kezer Saturday, July 13, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Get ready for a new addiction as you create a beautiful bracelet using simple knitting and beading techniques. We’ll discuss bead choices and a bit of color theory as well as stringing and finishing techniques to ensure enjoyment while you craft a professional-looking finished product. Beginning but should know how to knit. Registration deadline: July 8 Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by July 1 and the cost is $45 for Craft Center members, $55 for nonmembers. After July 1 Cost: $55/$65. Materials Fee: $15 to be paid to instructor at the beginning of class includes beads, floss, closure, beading needle and mat. Materials to bring to class: Size 1 double pointed needles.

 
WHEEL THROWN FUNCTIONAL TEAPOTS, with Katie Cottrell Saturday, July 20, & Sunday, July 21, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

This workshop is for students who would like to explore the consideration for making a functioning teapot and the many ways to achieve that outcome. The basics of lids, spouts, and handles will be discussed, along with tips for glazing later. Students will create the parts on the first day, trim, and assemble on the second day. Students should have experience working on the wheel. Bring lunch both days. Katie attended the Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida, but began her love for pottery 38 years ago at the Oak Ridge Art Center and the original Appalachian Arts Craft Center. Registration deadline: July 13. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by July 1 and the cost is $40 for Craft Center Members, $50 for nonmembers. After July 1 Cost: $50 / $60. If you need clay, you may purchase a bag for $30 the first day of class. Intermediate.

 
INTRODUCTION TO WET FELTING, with Tone Haugen-Cogburn Saturday, August 24, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

In this workshop you will be introduced to the ancient art of wet felting, while using some “modern” tools. With the help of soap, water and your hands wool roving will become a very tough textile which can be used for many practical purposes, as well as decorative ones. Several techniques and types of wool will be tested. You will be able to make a mug rug, some wooly flowers, a glass case (or small pouch), and if time permits start a needlecase. The instructor will bring wool rowing in many colors for you to use. Registration deadline: August 17. Earlybird Cost: Register and pay by August 10 and the cost is $45 for Craft Center Members, $55 for nonmembers. After August 10 Cost: $55 / $65. Materials fee: $12 to be paid to instructor on 8/24. Also, bring your lunch and 2 small towels to be used for use during class. Beginning.

ONGOING CLASSES:

WEAVING with Carol Pritcher

Tuesdays, 10 am to 2 pm (six classes)

For anyone interested in gaining knowledge of the loom and beginning weaving. Classes can be scheduled on an individual basis by calling Carol on Tuesdays at 494-9854.

$125 members  ($135 non-members) plus a small materials fee. Beginning-Intermediate.

 HAND-SEWING DAY with the Quilting Department

Wednesdays, 10 am to 2 pm

Bring your hand-sewing project or help out with the group quilting project with a wonderful group of ladies which meets each Wednesday to quilt, laugh, and enjoy lunch together. No need to call ahead; just bring yourlunch.

No Cost.

MAKE YOUR OWN CLASS

To be scheduled

Got a craft you want to learn? The Craft Center has access to numerous talented craft teachers in a variety of subjects. Gather up your friends and let’s plan your own class. Five or more students are needed. For more information or to just get ideas, call Kathy King (Interim Education Coordinator)at 865-494-9854.

Price to be determined.

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CLASS POLICIES:

1. Anyone signing up for a class must pay for the class to be considered registered.

 2. People signing up for a class should not pay the materials fee at the time of registration (unless it is included in the fee). Materials fees are generally paid to the teacher or studio on the first day of class.

 3. Each class has a minimum and a maximum number of students. If the minimum number of students is not reached by the registration deadline, the class may be canceled and all fees refunded. If a student must cancel after paying, a refund will be given if it is two weeks (14 calendar days) or more before the class; otherwise we cannot give a refund. This is necessary due to the amount of work involved with class registration, set up, and publicity and fairness to others in the class.

 4. If classes are held over the lunch hour, students should bring a lunch with them.

 5. If Anderson County schools are closed due to bad weather, or bad weather occurs on a weekend classes MAY not be held. The decision to cancel is up to the teacher. In that case, please call the Center at 494-9854.

If you’d like to receive our monthly newsletter with updates on classes and other happenings at the Center, please consider joining. There are a lot of opportunities here for artists, crafters, or people interested in the arts. Members receive $10 off all our classes, get the monthly newsletter, have access to our studios, and are part of a wonderful group of people who support local artists in East Tennessee. It’s not expensive to become a member.

Membership Levels:

Individual membership, $40

Low Income membership (eligible for class scholarships), $10

Family membership (two persons same household), $65

Friend of the Center, $100 (this might be someone wanting to give extra support to the Center, a large family, or a small organization)

Lifetime membership, $1,000.

To join, stop by the Center at 2716 Andersonville Highway, Norris, TN, or call 865-494-9854. (Since all memberships are due January 31 of each year, if you join during a month other than January, your first payment will be prorated. Ask for more details.)