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April 3, 2007 Craft Intensive Workshops

"It's going to be intensive." Said Ann Cannon with a smile when discussing the "Craft Intensive Workshops" planned as a fundraiser on Saturday April 21st for the benefit of the Leffingwell House Museum at 385 Washington Street in Norwich.

Participants will spend 4 hours learning and practicing a specific craft in a workshop led by experienced artists and teachers. Pastry chef Joyce Brewster will lead 6 lucky people through the steps of making delicious and flaky piecrust and a melt in your mouth filling.

"Tattering" is a variation of "Tatting," the art of making lace. Cathy Levin learned to "tatter" from members of her family who worked in the mills and now she makes her own kitchen curtains! A variation of "Filet Crochet" or "picture lace" its easy to learn. In this workshop everyone will make their own shuttle and will complete a small 'picture lace' project. Class size is limited to 6. All materials are provided.

The more traditional "Bobbin Lace Making" will be demonstrated and taught by Clare Settle. Clare is an active member of the New England Lace Group and will provided six students a firm pillow (called a 'cookie') to which a pricked out pattern is tacked, a set bobbins and pins for the day. This is a simple craft of elegance and ease. Everyone will make a piece of lace to take home.

Joe Doran asks his class of six to take a seat or rather, bring a seat, preferably a ladder backed chair with the old seat removed to learn the art of creating your own comfortable splint seat. This workshop does have a materials fee of $10.00 and Joe is asking that participants bring a pair of scissors, a few clothespins, a rag and a small container for to soak the splint.

Tom Brown will lead his class through a lively discussion of 18th century military, civilian and trade firearms augmented with examples from his own collection.

The $20.00 per person (Members of the Society of the Founders $15) donation includes participation in one of the workshops and a light lunch provided by the Society of the Founders of Norwich. Leave a clearly stated message at 887-9000 with your name, preferred workshop and a phone number to confirm your attendance. Donations, materials fees and membership can be paid at the door on April 21st.

Brochure available here