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 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 Feb 16-May 4. No open studio on Feb 23 and April 20. Recommended minimum age: 16+

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

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 Feb 16-May 4. No open studio on Feb 23 and April 20. 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

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 Feb 16-May 4. No open studio on Feb 23 and April 20. 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

If you are interested in learning the basics of clothing construction and would like to create a wearable garment then this course is for you! In this 6-week course, students will learn essential garment sewing techniques while constructing the digital Itch to Stitch Simien Pattern Top and Dress. Using How to Start Sewing as a foundational guide, students will build skills in pattern reading, fabric selection, seam finishes, fitting adjustments, hemming, and garment construction. By the end of the course, each student will complete a beautiful handmade top or dress—and gain the confidence to sew garments independently. Throughout the course, we will explore: Reading and understanding patterns and pattern markings Selecting appropriate fabrics Accurate cutting and marking Seam construction and finishing Inserting sleeves Neckline finishing techniques Hemming and professional pressing Basic fitting adjustments We will use How to Start Sewing as a companion guide to reinforce core sewing principles and best practices. This course is ideal for confident beginners who are comfortable using a sewing machine and are ready to complete their first garment—or refine their foundational skills. Students will leave with a finished top or dress and the knowledge to confidently tackle future garment projects. Materials and supplies: A list of materials and supplies will be emailed to you after registration. Requirement: Comfortable using and operating a sewing machine. All students will have use of a sewing machine in our sewing lab. A brief tutorial will be provided on the first day of class. Age 16+.

Join fine local jewelry maker, Jolynn Santiago, and learn how to make a beautiful jewelry using specific tools and techniques. This multi-week class focuses on building confidence with basic metalsmithing skills through the repeated making of silver stud earrings. Students will learn and practice sawing, surface texturing, and soldering while creating several pairs of earrings over the course of the class. Working through the same process multiple times allows techniques to settle in and become more familiar. Repetition helps students improve accuracy, control, and comfort at the bench, while small variations in design keep the work engaging and personal. The class is designed to meet students where they are. Beginners will be guided step by step, and students with prior experience may move at their own pace or explore additional surface treatments as time allows. By the end of this 4-week series, most students can expect to leave with multiple pairs of silver stud earrings they can wear and enjoy or gift. All materials, and tools for use during class are included in the fee. All levels are welcome! Age: 18+

Join Nick Rosato, professional woodturner and owner of Vermont Peppermill, for this hands-on and step-by-step introduction to wood turning! In this two-session class, you’ll learn how to safely and confidently use a lathe to create projects of your choice—no prior woodworking or lathe experience required. Learn essential lathe safety, tool techniques, and how to create balanced, symmetrical designs will be covered. Whimsical, charming, and endlessly customizable! Wooden mushrooms and trees are a joy to make! In this fun and creative lathe class, Nick will show you how to turn both caps and stems and trees. Experiment with proportions, and create smooth, polished finishes. Perfect for garden décor, tabletop or mantle displays, and gifts. These projects are approachable and guaranteed to make you smile :) Bring your ideas, inspiration photos, or sketch. Each participant will have their own lathe to use during class, and wooden blanks (maple, birch or cherry) are included in the course fee. Feel free to bring your own wood if you want a specific or more pricey wood species. - Interested in a different project? With advance notice (email access@cvsdvt.org), students may use this class time to work on an alternate lathe project. - Experienced participants may work on targeted practice projects to advance their spindle turning tool skills and build confidence for independent work at home. Wear closed toed shoes, hat (hair tied back), and bring your own protective eye wear/goggles. No loose clothing, jewelry, or accessories! Note: Only 7 spots available per session. Min age: 16+

Join local artist, designer and creator behind 3rd and Elm Co. for a relaxed painting experience inspired by Vermont's most iconic mountains and landmarks - Mount Mansfield, Camel's Hump and Jay Peak. New this year -Burlington Breakwater Lighthouse! Each design is individually precision cut on a professional laser machine creating a beautifully cut wood piece that makes painting approachable and enjoyable for all skill levels. The cut out clean cut edges help guide your painting while still allowing plenty of room for creativity and personalization. This class is designed for people of all experience levels. Whether you haven't picked up a paintbrush in years or you paint regularly you will be helped with simple techniques to create a finished your unique piece you'll be proud to display or gift! During registration you will need to choose which your preferred design. All supplies are provided. Just bring yourself and a willingness to create and have fun! Min Age 16+ "Vermont Peaks Paint On Wood with Kara Janaro was one of my all time favorite ACCESS classes. Kara is a gem!" Camel's Hump Jay Peak Mount Mansfield Burlington Breakwater Lighthouse The Whale Tail

Join fine local jewelry maker, Jolynn Santiago, and learn how to make a beautiful piece of jewelry to wear of gift. Over the course of-3 sessions, you will learn the basics of jewelry making and maybe leave with not only a beautiful set of rings, but also new hobby! In this course, students will measure, cut, file, shape, solder, and form multiple rings. We will use different types of silver wire and texture to create multiple rings. Through repetition, participants will become comfortable using a torch and soldering while practicing hammering, sawing, and forming. In addition to gaining a basic understanding of ring making, students will develop a greater appreciation for rings and jewelry in their personal collections. All levels are welcome- Only 6 spots available! Age: 18+ All materials, silver, and tools for use during class are included in the fee. Stacked Ring Bands

Join us for a fun, hands-on, one-night beginner class (2.5–3 hours) where students of all ages can build a functional and attractive bat house. No prior woodworking experience is needed. Children are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian, making this a great opportunity for families to learn and build together. Participants will select their wood and prepare each piece for assembly. While some components will be pre-cut, there will also be opportunities to cut, adjust, and customize each bat house to make it your own. The class takes place in the CVU woodshop, with access to both hand tools and power tools as appropriate. All materials are included in the course fee. By building a bat house to keep or give as a gift, you’ll be supporting an important and increasingly threatened species affected by habitat loss and urban development. In addition to completing a meaningful, eco-friendly project, this class serves as a great introduction to the other woodworking courses offered, helping students build comfort and confidence with the tools and the shop environment. Please bring safety glasses and a dust mask if you have one. We have a small supply on hand if you need one. Long hair will need to be tied back and no open toed shoes or loose clothing. Note: The electric tool usage can create a bottleneck so please be patient, and use this time to learn and help others. "Teacher ( Tony) is generous, skilled, patient and a delight. I learned a lot about tools, bats, and woodworking!"

Come learn the basics of pen turning with professional wood turner Andrew Duling. Pen turning is an excellent introduction to lathe work. It’s a quick, fulfilling, and inexpensive way to go from wood to finished product. Bring home turned pens you can cherish for years or give as a gifts. Each student will complete turning of one pen, with the option of turning an additional pen as time allows. Open to all ages 16+, students 12-16 welcome with an adult chaperone. All experience levels welcome! No prior woodworking experience required. All materials and use of equipment included in the fee. Bring safety eye goggles and wear closed toed shoes. No loose clothing! Wear your hair tied back or wear a hat.