Crafts for Children and Young People
Animal Tracking: Nature's Morning News
Dan Yacobellis
In this class you will learn how to identify animal tracks and signs. Then we will interpret what we find to help paint a picture not only of the animal itself but also of what it was doing, thinking, and feeling at that moment. There's no greater way to understand the ecology of the forest than to walk in the footsteps of those who help create it. Open to ages 10 and above; adult supervision for all children is required.
Bring your snowshoes and dress warmly for a day outside!
Sessions:
846-0208 This offering has already met Sun February 8, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
846-0314 This offering has already met Sat March 14, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Build an Observation Bluebird Nest Box
Dan Green
Bluebirds are so beautiful and interesting. Come construct an observation bluebird nest box. Bluebirds are cavity nesters and this nest box has a clear plastic panel on one side that makes it possible to check on the progress of young nestlings without disturbing the nest. You will learn some basic woodworking skills in addition to the fundamentals of nest box design and the proper placement and maintenance of your nest box. A great class for anyone interested in helping preserve our state bird while learning about the wonderful ways bluebirds enrich our lives. All are welcome to participate in this class; children ages 10 to 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Sessions:
735-0307 This offering has already met Sat March 7, 2015 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Build a Rustic Birdhouse
Don Polunci
Anyone can learn to make a rustic birdhouse in just a few hours. A birdhouse is a simple structure with seven basic parts: two sides, a front and back, a bottom, and two pieces for the top. Power tools are not necessary to cut the wood; it can be done with a handsaw. Using rough-cut lumber, you will construct a rustic birdhouse that can be functional and/or decorative. Choose from several birdhouse designs. There will be a short discussion about nesting birds, feeding birds, and suitable houses for area birds. Participants are encouraged to bring objects (such as old drawer pulls, door knobs, hardware, etc.) from home. Adults and teens welcome; children ages 10-14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Sessions:
754-0418 This offering has already met Sat April 18, 2015 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
754-1121 This offering has already met Sat November 21, 2015 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Beginning Sewing - Pillow Case
Sandy Collins
This class is for anyone (minimum age 10) who would like to learn how to use a sewing machine to sew. We will start at the very beginning to ensure that all students learn the basics of sewing on a machine. Create something useful at the same time - a pillow case. Imagine how proud you will be to sleep on a pillow case that you made yourself! This class is for beginning sewers.
A list of materials and equipment needed for this project is available at AFS. Call 518-696-2400 or stop by for a copy.
Sessions:
708-0627 This offering has already met Sat June 27, 2015 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Letterboxing: Ages 5 - 9
Christine Ferris-Hubbard
Letterboxing first started in England in the mid 1800's, and was recognized by the Smithsonian magazine in a 1998 article. In this class, you will design and create your own stamps and handmade books in which to record your stamps. A variety of stamps will be created. You will learn the ethics of "Leave No Trace" as you learn about letterboxing. A search for hidden letterboxes on AFS property will allow you to try your hand at finding letterboxes by following clues. Finally, you will make your own letterbox to hide in the future. With over 600 letterboxes hidden in the Adirondacks and surrounding northern New York, letterboxing is a great way for kids and their families to explore the Adirondacks and beyond.
Sessions:
783-0715 This offering has already met Wed July 15, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Create Your Own Marshmallow Roaster
Steve Gurzler
Great for roasting marshmallows or even flipping your steak on the grill, the process of making these roasters is also a great way to learn the basics of blacksmithing. In this class you will learn how to build a fire in the forge, heat metal, twist, cut, and bend while using the tools of the blacksmith. This class is open to all wanting to try their hands at blacksmithing and have some fun! Parents must accompany their children.
Hard shoes and long pants are required for students safety.
Sessions:
834-0719 This offering has already met Sun July 19, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
834-0920 This offering has already met Sun September 27, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Beginner Quilt - 9 Patch
Sandy Collins
This is a great first class for beginner quilters. Come learn an art form that can bring a lifetime of artistry and creative expression in fiber. We will work with a simple strip pieced assembly for a completed project in one session. This class is for young beginners ages 8 to 16; parents are encouraged to stay and assist their budding artists.
A list of materials and equipment needed for this project is available at the Adirondack Folk School, call 518-696-2400 or stop by for a copy.
Sessions:
709-0725 This offering has already met Sat July 25, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Letterboxing: Ages 10-18
Christine Ferris-Hubbard
Letterboxing first started in England in the mid 1800's, and was recognized by the Smithsonian magazine in a 1998 article. In this class, you will design and create your own stamps and handmade books in which to record your stamps. A variety of stamps will be created. You will learn the ethics of "Leave No Trace" as you learn about letterboxing. A search for hidden letterboxes on AFS property will allow you to try your hand at finding letterboxes by following clues. Finally, you will make your own letterbox to hide in the future. With over 600 letterboxes hidden in the Adirondacks and surrounding northern New York, letterboxing is a great way for kids and their families to explore the Adirondacks and beyond.
Sessions:
784-0812 This offering has already met Wed August 12, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Be a Wizard Apprentice
John Kingsley
Join the wizard in his touring wizard wand shop. Come for a half hour or stay for the full day. You'll have a fun time making your own custom wand. The wizard will be greeting apprentices throughout the day. Children 10 and above are welcome with parental guidance.
Call to schedule a time for your child throughout the day: 9-12 and 1-4. For your safety: no loose fitting clothes, hair tied back, comfortable shoes, and no jewelry. If sensitive to wood dust registration for turning classes is not recommended.
Sessions:
743-0816 This offering has already met Sun August 16, 2015 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tin Ornaments
Art Thorman
Christmas time in the Adirondacks is a magical time of year. In this tinsmithing class you will make multiple festive holiday ornaments in a variety of designs, including icicles, spirals, snowflakes, and angels, in addition to your own unique designs! No previous tinsmithing experience is necessary in this class. Perfect for students 12 and older, this is a great class for the whole family!
Sessions:
738-1107 This offering has already met Sat November 7, 2015 9:00 am - 1:00 pm