Access At CVUHS

If you are just beginning your wheel throwing journey, or if you have some experience, but want to learn more while you work independently, then join us for Mixed Level Wheel Throwing with Jessica LaBonte, owner of Cedar Tree Pottery. During these 12 weeks you will learn new skills, or refine your techniques, and create beautiful ceramics with as much instruction as you need. At the CVU ceramics studio, we offer and welcome a fun and judgement-free collaborative environment for potters of all levels. Only 10 spots available! Students will have access to stoneware, mid-fire clay, Cone 6. All clay, glazes (brushed and dipped), use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. NOTE: Only the provided glazes and clay are allowed in the studio. BONUS: Free access to "Open Studio" on Monday evenings 5pm-8pm starting Sept 29-Dec 22. No open studio on 11/24. Recommended minimum age: High School. "I really loved taking Beginner Ceramics with Jessica. This was my first time taking an Access Class at CVU and it was a wonderful experience and I really enjoyed myself. I am looking forward to taking more Access Classes in the future." CP

In this introduction to watercolor painting, this is a 10 session (20 hours) will promise to give you the skills required to enjoy watercolor as your new loved hobby! Learn the foundations of this versatile and creative medium: Design layouts, color palettes, composition, texture, and light will all be covered. Ginny Joyner, a professional watercolor illustrator, leads everyone through exercises designed to explore the many techniques associated with watercolor. No previous art experience required. Open to all ages and levels! Quality materials are important in watercolor and are included in the fee. Kits will be available the first day of class and are yours to keep. "Watercolor for beginners with Ginny was a truly delightful experience. Ginny taught me important watercolor skills and gave me the confidence to keep painting! I would definitely take a class with her again."- EP "I was delighted with my beginner watercolor class. Ginny was so encouraging and supportive. You couldn’t help but learn and improve, no matter your level of ability. I will definitely sign up for more". JG Watercolor- Pears by Ginny Joyner

This technical hands-on course is designed for those with no welding experience, as well as those who want to improve their skills and learn how to weld using proper methods. The course will cover welding of carbon steel using Oxy-Acetylene torches, SMAW (arc or stick welding), GMAW (MIG or wirefeed welding) and GTAW (TIG welding). Welding of stainless steel and aluminum can be covered as students progress in their abilities. Oxy-Fuel cutting and plasma cutting will also be introduced during the course. There will be the option to weld a small project of your own during the class. All equipment and consumable materials are included in the fee. Recommendations and Requirements: Students must always wear safety toe leather boots, cotton pants and long sleeved cotton shirts. Turtlenecks are recommended for shirt type. All apparel should not have any holes or frays. Students should consider purchasing their own PPE prior to class, such as safety glasses, ear plugs, and welders caps. Students can purchase welding PPE locally at either Haun Welding Supply or Airgas, which are both in Williston, VT. Mention you are a taking an Access class for 10% off! The shop has welding PPE to borrow, but it may not fit properly and is used a fair amount by all students. Minimum age requirement: 16+ *NOTE: Welding II will be offered in the spring and will cover welding of carbon steel, stainless steel and aluminum using SMAW (arc or stick welding), GMAW (MIG or wirefeed welding) and GTAW (TIG welding), Oxy-Fuel cutting and plasma cutting will also be covered in more depth. "The welding class was terrific, and the instructor Wes was truly passionate about his craft. I went into the session knowing nothing, and walked out five courses later having learned four different welding styles, and I even completed a couple of projects on my own. I'll definitely be continuing this adventure." "Wes was very detailed in his explanation and demonstration of welding techniques. By the second class we were all practicing welding with one on one instruction from Wes. I feel confident enough to tackle a welding job after taking this course."- Brian

Join Nick Rosato, a professional wood turner and owner of Vermont Peppermill, for 10-weeks (25 hours!) of open lathe. This course is designed for those that have some turning experience, but would like to hone their skills. More advanced turners are welcome to join as well! Each participant will have their own lathe to use, and may bring in pre-approved projects in addition to turning bowl and spindles. Purchase wood blanks during class for ($10 each cash) or bring in your own. Safe practice, proper tool use, and properties of wood will also be covered throughout the course. Wear closed toed shoes, hat (hair tied back), and bring your own protective eye wear/goggles. No loose clothing or accessories! Min age: 16+ Note: Only 7 spots available. Don't delay, register today!

Graphite offers a broad range of values and practical uses for wildlife and natural history illustrators. This class will provide an overview and real-time practice of skill sets that empower participants to create realistic and detailed renderings of the natural world that surrounds us. Among the topics covered will be methods to transfer a preliminary sketch to a final drawing surface, techniques for rendering textures and materials such as fur, feathers, leaves and bark, and best practices for observation and research of subject matter. Strong focus will be placed on depth, details, composition and the most effective ways to bring life, character and accuracy into a graphite drawing. Recommended for ages 18+ with some drawing experience. A list of basic supplies will be emailed with your confirmation. Please bring these supplies to all classes. “In the five years I have collaborated with Charon Henning in her role as Art Director for March Mammal Madness I have been perennially impressed by her creative vision and professionalism. Charon’s illustrations are not only exquisite artistically, but meticulous in their scientific accuracy." - Prof Kate Hinde, PhD, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University

If you are just beginning your wheel throwing journey, or if you have some experience, but want to learn more while you work independently, then join us for Mixed Level Wheel Throwing with veteran potter of 20 years, and high school ceramics teacher, Ryan Strobel. During these 12-weeks you will discover the art of pottery wheel throwing in this engaging mixed-level class, perfect for beginners and experienced potters alike. Learn essential techniques, refine your skills, and create unique ceramic pieces under the guidance of an expert instructor in a supportive, creative, and judgement-free environment. Only 10 spots available! Students will have access to stoneware, mid-fire clay, Cone 6. All clay, glazes (brushed and dipped), use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. NOTE: Only the provided glazes and clay are allowed in the studio. BONUS: Free access to "Open Studio" on Monday evenings 5pm-8pm starting Sept 29-Dec 22. No open studio on 11/24. Recommended minimum age: 16+

This is an open studio style, 10-session workshop, designed for those that have taken the Access Bowl Turning Workshop with Eddie previously OR those that feel comfortable in a woodworking shop and can use a lathe independently. With a small class size, this allows each student to work on their own lathe while Eddie supervises and helps wood bowl turners as needed. Blanks will be available to purchase ($10 each- cash), or BYO wood blanks. Want to buy your own gouge? Contact us for recommendations. Wear closed toed shoes, hat (hair tied back), and bring your own protective eye wear/goggles. No loose clothing or accessories! "Eddie and this class was just the bowl-turning experience I was looking for. I’d had some prior turning instruction and time on the lathe, but with Eddie I was able to work semi-independently, make my own errors, ask for advice and really progress. Hope to be able to continue with the class and to improve from here."- Student Spring 2025- In the Shop!

Charlotte Sylvester has been practicing stained glass since 2020 and is looking forward to guiding you through this intricate, interesting and inspiring process from start to finish. During this 5-session course, students will learn the fundamentals of the Copper Foil Technique and leave with a beautifully finished stained glass creation. Choose an entry level ‘cartoon’ or template, and learn the nuances of glass cutting, shaping, grinding, copper foiling and soldering. Students will first create a practice piece and with their newly discovered talent, they will craft a stained glass masterpiece to cherish or gift. Sign up early as there are limited spots available. Courses will be offered both in the fall and spring semesters to help accommodate this popular offering. This class is geared for beginners or intermediate levels, age requirement: 18+. All materials and tools are provided for use during this course. Requirement: Closed-toed shoes and pants. Safety glasses, gloves and mask are provided; please feel free to bring your own. Please note, this class is NOT recommended for those that are pregnant or breastfeeding due to the possible exposure of lead solder. "Charlotte had such genuine enthusiasm for her craft and patience. She provided one on one help to ensure you were comfortable with the process. A good estimation of time, well organized. Love that she had multiple patterns to choose from. I would definitely take another class with her. ZC" "Charlotte Sylvester was an amazing instructor and made taking the class such a pleasure! Would love to take another class from her, maybe a tier 2 stained glass class. CVU Access is a great resource for the community."

In this 4- session intro to oil painting course you will cover a variety of oil painting techniques and will work on one landscape painting over the course of the workshop. Perfect for the novice just getting into Oil Painting, we will go over the fundamentals of Oils from the perspective of a landscape painter and focus on simple graphic shapes while having fun building dynamic beautiful scenes. We will go over shape language, value, color, and mixing color. The main thrust of the class is to get you to have fun and develop an appreciation for the medium of Oil Paint while learning to think graphically. Bring a landscape photo or picture to the first class. A list of materials to purchase prior to class will be provided after registration. Minimum age: 16+ "The teacher was very helpful and supportive of the whole class. He had a very positive attitude and helped people achieve an improvement in their skills with oil painting."

During these 14 sessions (35 hours!), Ginny will supervise this studio style class and help you master your watercolor techniques! Improve your color palette and brush techniques as you work on more challenging class projects as well as your own projects. Each 2.5 hour session will take place in the visual art space at CVU. This course is designed for artists who have taken watercolor classes previously and are comfortable working independently. Some guided instruction and supervision will be available as you progress throughout this course. This is also great class to connect, gather and learn from other watercolor enthusiasts within our artistic community. Fun will be had, guaranteed! Please bring your own watercolor paint, brushes, and paper to class. "Ginny creates a warm, constructive and friendly atmosphere. Terrific class. I've been taking it for over a dozen years."- Student "Ginny Joyner’s watercolor studio class is fabulous! She introduces new techniques to try, provides assistance to her students, and makes learning a fun process!"- Student

Tap into your inner artist and try a new style of painting using oil paints and palette-knives! During this one-night course, Fia will teach you the basic properties of oil painting and color application. Using only a palette knife, you will create a modern round impressionist-style painting, "September on Lake Champlain" Grab a friend for this fun evening and take home a masterpiece! All materials, including oil paints, are included in the fee. Option to paint an 8" round or 8X8 square will be available. Please bring a box or container to transport your masterpiece as oil paints take a long time to dry. Wear clothing that may get dirty, and feel free to bring a non-alcoholic beverage! No previous art experience necessary. All levels welcomed! Minimum age: 16+ "I had fun painting with oil! It’s so forgiving compared to other styles. I would recommend this class to others!"

Discover the meditative, artistic world of Zentangle® created in 2004 by Maria Thomas and Rick Roberts. It is an easy-to-learn, relaxing, and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns (tangles). This class will guide you through the process, from a brief history of Zentangle, through the 8 basic steps of the method, to creating patterns with combinations of lines, dots, and simple curves. Zentangle art is non-representational and unplanned so you can focus on each stroke and not on the end result. But the outcome will surprise you! You will have created a beautiful abstract tile. No artistic experience is required. All materials will be provided by the instructor in class and are yours to keep!

If you are just beginning your journey in pottery, or if you have some experience, but want to learn more while you work independently, then join artist, Lisa Bresler on Wednesday's and get ready to create! During these 10-weeks you will learn new pottery skills, refine your techniques, and create beautiful ceramics with as much instruction as you need. Focus will be mostly wheel throwing, but for those that prefer hand-building you will have all the support you need! At the CVU ceramics studio, we offer and welcome a fun and judgement-free collaborative environment for potters of all levels. Only 10 spots available! Students will have access to stoneware, mid-fire clay, Cone 6. All clay, glazes (brushed and dipped), use of the studio, tools, as well as firing costs are included in the fee. NOTE: Only the provided glazes and clay are allowed in the studio. BONUS: Free access to "Open Studio" on Monday evenings 5pm-8pm starting Sept 29-Dec 22. No open studio on 11/24. Recommended minimum age: High School.

Looking for a striking and gorgeous way to decorate for Autumn (and Halloween) that doesn’t involve carving fresh pumpkins? Using only sharpies and craft pumpkins, this class will show you how to use different Zentangle “tangles” to adorn your pumpkin. Zentangle combines drawing intricate lines, curves, and orbs and uses them in repetitive patterns. Encourage your creative expression with this fun and relaxing method of drawing. You will be shown how to draw a variety of tangles then choose the ones you like to use on your pumpkin. Previous Zentangle experience is not required. All materials are included in the fee. Min age: 14+

Join us for a relaxing 75 minute workshop where participants will create their own dot mandala on an 8x8 canvas using simple dotting techniques. This small-group session blends creativity with calm focus, offering a chance to explore pattern, color, and mindfulness in a welcoming environment. Each participant will receive a Mandala dotting tool set (value $10) and is yours to keep. All supplies are included in the fee.

Join us for this fun, informative class to learn how to Cast On, Knit, Purl and Bind Off. We’ll talk about yarn, needles, other tools of the trade, gauge, and pattern reading, so you’ll have a good base of information to get you started off right! This cowl is so much fun to knit and wear, and makes great holiday gifts too; you’ll want to make one in every color! Please bring the following materials to the first class: Yarn: 200 yards #6 Super Bulky Yarn Knitting Needle: US 17 24-32” Circular Needle Other Tools: Darning Needle, Stitch Marker (or scrap yarn), Scissors, Tape Measure If you choose to visit Must Love Yarn to purchase any of the supplies needed for class, you can enjoy a 15% discount. Mention at checkout that you are taking a CVU Access class with Krista Atkeson.

Watercolor 2 continues your foundational skill-building in mixing colors, layering washes, and design composition. If you have some knowledge of watercolor, but want to "brush" up on you skills then this 10 session (20 hour) course is for you! Ginny will use guided photos and content for this class. If you would prefer to use your own projects, that is possible as well, or you can join Watercolor Studio on Wed evenings. All ages and levels welcome! Quality materials are important in watercolor and we can supply you with brushes to keep and a reasonable amount of paint and paper. If you need a supply kit, please choose the option, "Including Supply Kit," when registering. "Ginny Joyner is that rare combination -- she is both an excellent artist AND and a skilled teacher. This "I don't have an artistic bone in my body" old lady had an amazing experience and learned to love painting. Ginny creates an atmosphere where all sorts of unexpected growth just happens!" - student "Not only do Ginny's classes help foster a regular practice of creativity, but she's an incredibly gifted teacher. She creates a supportive, inclusive environment that helps folks of all abilities / styles discover their creativity and learn new watercolor techniques. I've taken her classes multiple times and will definitely be back for more!" Ginny Joyner- Fall

Thinking about taking the Charcuterie Board class but never used power tools before? This course is the recommended starting point. Designed for complete beginners, it focuses on getting you comfortable in the woodshop and confident with essential tools. Whether you’re preparing for a project class or simply want to learn how to safely use basic tools at home for just about any DIY project, this class will give you the foundation you need. Focus of the Class:hop safety and protective equipment How to set up, hold, and operate tools correctly Understanding what different tools can (and can’t) do Hands-on practice using repurposed pallet and furniture wood to transform rough boards into smooth, usable stock Flexibility for students to choose which tools they want to learn and practice with Building confidence for future woodworking or DIY projects In this one-session course (2.5–3 hours), students will work with repurposed woods from pallets and old furniture, learning how to bring worn boards back to life and make them look new again. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to choose which tools you want to focus on — from basic hand tools to more advanced power tools — so the class meets your personal goals and comfort level. By the end, you’ll understand what different tools can do, how to use them safely, and how to select the right tool for the job. Tools Covered... Basic Tools Measuring & marking tools (tape measure, square, pencil/marking knife) Power drill/driver Orbital sander Jig Saw Circular Saw More Advanced Tools (optional, introduced with supervision) Miter Saw (precision and angled cuts) Scroll saw (intricate shapes and detail work) Router or trim router (edge profiles, grooves) Table saw (ripping and crosscutting boards) Band saw (curves, resawing) Drill press (precision holes) Planer & jointer (flattening and smoothing boards) Please bring safety glasses and a dust mask if you have one. We have a small supply on hand. Long hair will need to be tied back, baseball hat is recommended, and no open toed shoes. This class is for ages 18+ with little to no experience in woodworking or shop environments — especially those planning to take the Charcuterie Board class, as well as anyone who wants to learn safe, effective use of basic tools for home or hobby projects.

Join the barn quilt movement! Immerse yourself in this hands-on class and learn to make your own Painted Mini Barn Quilt for inside your home or office! Ever wonder how it’s done? Well, now’s your chance to find out! Kelley Robie, of Horsetail Herbs, will provide the tools, materials, and techniques for making this creative project. Choose your pattern and paint colors, then get to work creating your unique piece of barn quilt therapy on a primed wooden 10-inch by 10-inch board. Kelley will also provide a selection of dried herbs to adorn your quilt. Barn quilts add coziness and character to any space, whether in your home, on the porch, on a shed, or on the barn! Get ready to have some fun and get creative!

Welding Open Studio is designed for those with prior welding experience that would like use of the CVU Metal Shop to work on projects independently and with supervision. Participants may bring in their projects and use the welding facilities during the allotted timeframe. Projects will need to be carried in and out of class as there is no storage available. There will be a brief overview of the CVU safety guidelines at the beginning of the course. Each class will be supervised with one of our welding instructors who will also be available for hands help. Safety Requirements: Completion of the Access Introduction to Welding Through Fabrication course is required OR prior knowledge and practice of welding basics has been verified. Students must always wear safety toe leather boots, cotton pants and long sleeved cotton shirts. Turtlenecks are recommended for shirt type. All apparel should not have any holes or frays. Welding PPE such as safety glasses, ear plugs, and welders caps. Students can purchase welding PPE locally at either Haun Welding Supply or Airgas, which are both in Williston, VT Minimum age requirement: 16+

Curious about basket weaving? Give it a try with this hanging Candle Basket, which is also perfect for cut or dried flowers. This class introduces basic weaving techniques for a round basket. The rhythmic nature of basket weaving can be both calming and therapeutic. Join this fun and rewarding class to learn a new skill and create a beautiful and functional piece of art! Participants should expect to complete the project in 1 session. All quality materials* included. *Participants should bring a pair of rubber gloves or disposable gloves, and a plastic bag to bring the basket home in if they wish to stain their basket. Suitable for ages 14 and up. "I took a basket class with Sue Domas a few years ago and it was a great class. I learned a lot and I created a beautiful basket. She is excellent at making baskets and a great teacher! Liz S.

In this 4-week course, students will learn a variety of advanced surface embroidery stitches including chain, blanket, herringbone, fly and feather stitches. These stitches form linear designs, add texture, and are useful when seam embellishments are desired on crazy quilts or clothing. Classes are designed to allow for individualized instruction as well as time to practice and refine stitching techniques. This course is appropriate for stitchers of every age, who have developed basic needle skills and are comfortable creating cross, stem, lazy daisy, and running surface embroidery stitches. Students should bring a 7-inch (or smaller) embroidery hoop and scissors to class. All other materials will be provided.