Classes offered on Saturday afternoon, August 29, 2026

Register for all classes and meals on ONE form!

For registration dates and details, see the “Register” page here

Click here for instructor bios

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Class number:  Sat-PM-11

Class title: Abstract Expressionism

Instructor: Deborah Hildinger

Class cost:  $60

Day/Time: Saturday 1 – 5 pm

Min/Max students: 4 / 12

Walk-ins accepted?  Yes

Skill level:  All levels

Class description:

In this class, I will present a thorough overview of my methodology for initiating mixed-media works. The primary objective will be to demonstrate key techniques and investigate the creative process, rather than to complete a final piece. The session will commence with whitewashing the surface, followed by the application of dyes and paints, and will conclude with the use of iridescent oil paint sticks. 

The central image displays a detail of this technique applied to the entire exterior of the gourd. 

Please note that this class will focus solely on the techniques; no interior collage or additional finishing elements will be incorporated at this stage. Completion or further embellishment of the sculpture’s interior is intended as an independent project.

Approximate size:  Varies

Percentage of the class project most students will complete during class: 90%

Students should bring:

• A medium-sized gourd, either uncut or cut and cleaned inside. If the gourd is cut open, it may be done with a straight cut or in another style as preferred.
• Materials that can be used as stencils. Examples of suitable items include burlap fabric, leaves, corrugated cardboard, bubble wrap, or any item that allows paint to be applied and transferred onto the surface of the gourd.
• Paint brushes and/or stencil brushes.
• If you have latex gloves, bring them.
• This class is very messy — bring an apron!
• A box or paper bag for safe transport of your work which may require 24 hours to dry. Plastic bags are discouraged, as they may adhere to the iridescent paint.
• Students are encouraged to bring personal color selections (optional – all necessary dyes, etc. will be provided).

Instructor will provide:

Acrylic paint, stencils, and other materials for transferring paint, four heat guns, disposable palette sheets, rags, GourdMaster dyes, Formula 49, iridescent oil paint sticks, iridescent paints and scissors.

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Create a vase on a powder horn gourd with an attached river birch base. We will wood burn the design, then add color using heat set inks. If time allows we will weave a sea grass rim; if not, students will be provided the sea grass and waxed linen to finish at home. Wood burners will be available to rent for $10 but must be requested in advance.

Approximate size: 8 – 10 inches tall by 5 inches wide

Percentage of the class project most students will complete during class: 90%

Students should bring:

Students will need a craft dryer to set the inks and a wood burner with skew or knife tip. Everything else is provided. Wood burners are available to rent for $10 but must be requested in advance.

Instructor will provide:

Gourd, wood burners to rent (must request ahead of time), pattern, base, clay, sea grass, waxed linen, inks, sealer

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Class number:  Sat-PM-13

Class title: Bedazzled Bowl

Instructor:  Regina Pena

Class cost:  $50

Day/Time:  Saturday 1:30 – 5 pm

Min/Max students:  4 / 10

Walk-ins accepted?  Yes

Skill level:  All levels

Class description:

Students will learn how to apply layers of color of alcohol inks then create a “crackling effect” before sealing the gourds. Once colored, students will apply the embellishments / beading to the rim of the gourd.

Note that each student will get one gourd; the photo shows two gourds just to show some of the variety in colors.

Approximate size:  5” to 6” diameter

Percentage of the class project most students will complete during class: 90% to 100%

Students should bring:

• Apron and gloves to protect clothing and hands
• N95 mask, if desired, due to alcohol ink and rubbing alcohol smells
• Additional battery lighting to aid students with vision concerns

Instructor will provide:

Prepared gourd approximately 5″ to 6″ in diameter. Alcohol inks, rubbing alcohol (70%), micro brushes, wire, beads & embellishments. Limited sizes of aprons (plastic) and gloves

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Class description:

Students will learn how to construct a bug house for your little creatures. This is fun and something you can use in your garden to attract bugs for pollination.

Approximate size:  Approx. 6” tall

Percentage of the class project most students will complete during class: 95%

Students should bring:

Apron

Instructor will provide:

Gourd, bee tubes, bamboo, bugs, bead, leather and painting supplies.

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