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  • Walt Stoneburner (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Mixed Level Wheel Throwing Thursdays with Jessica LaBonte- 12 weeks!

    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
  • Watercolor for Beginners

    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
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    Walt Stoneburner (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Mixed Level Wheel Throwing Tuesdays with Ryan Strobel- 12 weeks!

    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+
  • foam (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Open Lathe Workshop II -Bowl Turning with Eddie!

    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!
  • Watercolor Studio with Ginny Joyner

    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
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    Walt Stoneburner (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Mixed Level Hand-building and Wheel-Throwing Wednesdays with Lisa Bresler- 10 weeks!

    If you are just beginning your journey in pottery, or if you have some experience and want to learn more while you work independently, then join artist, Lisa Bresler on Wednesdays 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 on 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.
  • Watercolor for Beginners Continued...

    Watercolor Continued (formally named Watercolor for Beginners 2), is for those with some knowledge of watercolor, but want to "brush" up on you skills and and learn new techniques. Foundational skill-building in mixing colors, layering washes, and design composition will be covered during these 10 session (20 hour) in a non-judgmental and welcoming environment led by watercolor artist, Ginny Joyner. Ginny will use guided photos and content for this class. Feel free to use your own photos if you would like more of a challenge. Move at your own pace! All ages and levels welcome! Please bring in your own quality supplies- brushes, paints and paper. Quality materials are important in watercolor! 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
  • Jewelry Metalsmithing: Textured Silver Ring

    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-4 sessions, you will learn the basics of jewelry making and maybe leave with not only a beautiful ring, but also new hobby! Rings can be fabricated using wire and sheet. In this class, students will be using a sterling silver sheet to make a ring band that is 4mm or wider. First, we will use hammers and other tools to create interesting and unique textures. Once the band is textured, we’ll being designing and shaping the ring band. Then, we will saw and pierce the ring using a jeweler’s saw. Finally, students will anneal (soften), form, solder, shape, patina, and polish the rings. Depending on the complexity of the project, students may have the opportunity to make a silver ring out of wire as well! All materials, silver, and tools for use during class are included in the fee. All levels are welcome. Only 6 spots available! Age: 18+ Textured Silver Ring Band (example)
  • Surface Embroidery: Moving Beyond the Basic Stitches

    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.
  • Stained Glass with Charlotte Sylvester

    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."
  • Waitlist
    Quinn Dombrowski (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Intro to Crochet: A Granny Square Tote Bag

    This course will cover the basics of starting a project, beginning level stitches, and how to read a crochet pattern. We will learn what different gauges of yarn mean, and will learn how to make granny squares and transform them into tote bags by the end of the class. You will need to crochet outside of class time in order to complete the project. The granny square tote bags are completely customizable, so you can make one as big or small as you’d like! For students aged 13 and older. Students aged 10-12 are welcome to join with a caregiver who is also registered. Please plan to purchase the following supplies ahead of time and bring them to the first class (the instructor's, Devon's, notes are in italics): Each student will need to bring at least one skein/ball/or cake of yarn. I recommend multiple if you would like your project to be multiple colors. The easiest yarn for beginners is a classic acrylic yarn, like this example. Caron or Lion Brand also have similar options. If you would rather work with natural fibers, you can also purchase wool or cotton yarn, however cotton yarn can be difficult to work with. Ideally, please select a light or medium weight yarn. A crochet hook. The yarn you purchase will also list the size hook that should be used with it; this blog post also has a helpful chart. I recommend using an aluminum crochet hook as the plastic ones can bend/break which is very frustrating. There are ergonomic hooks like this one, or just a simple aluminum hook like this one. You will also need scissors which you may have at home already. Just be sure they are sharp, they do not need to be very large. If you plan to purchase scissors, I recommend craft scissors like these. You will also need a tapestry needle like this pack. For tapestry needles, I do find the plastic ones are easier to work with, but that is a personal preference between plastic and metal.
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    Tool Dude8mm (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Welding Fabrication

    This hands-on technical course is designed for all levels — whether you’re brand new to welding, looking to sharpen your skills, or simply want access to a fully equipped welding shop. For those with little or no experience, instruction will cover welding of carbon steel using: Oxy-Acetylene torches SMAW (Arc or Stick Welding) GMAW (MIG or Wirefeed Welding) GTAW (TIG Welding) You’ll also be introduced to Oxy-Fuel and Plasma Cutting techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to complete a small personal project during the course. All equipment and consumable materials are included in the registration fee. For those with prior experience, instruction can be tailored to individual goals, including welding of stainless steel and aluminum, or time to work independently on personal projects during open studio hours. All levels are welcome to use the welding shop as an open studio with supervision for personal projects or to receive individualized instruction to build skills and confidence. Requirements & Recommendations: Participants must wear safety-toe leather boots, cotton pants, and long-sleeved cotton shirts (turtlenecks are recommended). Clothing should be free of holes or frays. Students are encouraged to bring their own PPE (safety glasses, ear plugs, welder’s cap). PPE can be purchased locally at Haun Welding Supply or Airgas in Williston, VT—mention you’re taking an ACCESS class for 10% off! (CVU’s shop has loaner PPE available, though fit and condition may vary.) Minimum Age: 16+ "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
  • Fused Glass Ornaments

    Come to this workshop to learn about fused glass and make your own Holiday Ornaments, or sun catchers while you're at it. You will be able to make 3 ornaments or sun catchers during class. This workshop will include instruction on using hand tools to cut the glass and using a grinder to get the shape you want. All materials are included in the class fee. Micaela will take your finished product after the class to fire them in a glass kiln; they will be available for pick-up at CVU a week later. No experience required. For students ages 13 and older. Students aged 8-12 are welcome; they should register with an adult who is also registered for the class, and plan to have one dedicated adult for each child attending. This class will meet inside CVU.
  • Learn How to Turn a Wooden Bowl!

    Join Andrew Duling, a professional wood turner, to make your first hardwood bowl! Each participant will receive a hardwood blank and have their own lathe to use during class. Learn how to use and work safely on a lathe. Turn a blank into a beautiful wooden bowl and gain the confidence needed to start a new hobby! Safety practices, proper tool use, and properties of wood will be covered. 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. Appropriate for high-school aged students and older. Watch the life of a wooden bowl turner...https://youtu.be/B4or0amjL2w "Andy is very knowledgeable and incredibly patient with students. He is a great instructor!" "Very knowledgeable teacher and very patient, great at explaining, cannot say enough how good he was!"
  • Comic Book Illustration- All Levels Welcome!

    Welcome to the wonderful world of fantasy and narrative comic book illustrations! In this 4- session class we will go over how to draw figures within the context of an illustrated narrative using visual symbols to stylize the figure. Some examples of stylization are Manga style cartooning, American comic style cartooning, and cartooning for animation. We will create a character and then put that character within a narrative 1-2 pages in length. At the end of the course students will have a completed character sheet and a 1-2 page sequential story showcasing their character. Other topics covered will include, breaking a script, writing for comics, anatomy and perspective. This class is designed for students of all skill levels! A list of materials to purchase prior to class will be provided after registration. Minimum age: 14+ "The Comic Book Illustration class was absolutely fantastic! I learned a lot and I think my potential art career is much better for it"
  • Next Steps in Knitting – Knit a Cozy Hat

    Join us for this fun, informative class to learn how to knit a hat! You will learn to Cast On, Knit, Purl, Decrease, and Bind Off. We will talk about yarn, needles, gauge, tools of the trade, and pattern reading. Hats are fun to knit and wear, plus they make great handmade gifts. If you’ve done a bit of knitting before, this class is just the thing to take you through the next steps in your journey! Required Materials: Yarn: 145 - 200 Yards of #5 Bulky Weight Yarn (Berroco Ultra Wool Chunky or similar) Knitting Needles: US 10 or 10.5 16” Circular Needle (to start knitting the ribbing of the hat), US 10 or 10.5 Double Pointed Needles (to decrease for the crown of the hat) Other Tools: Darning Needle, Stitch Marker (or scrap yarn), scissors Optional Materials (if you want to add a pompom): Yarn: 10-20 yards matching or contrasting yarn for pompom (this can be any weight yarn and is a fun way to use up scraps!) Tools: PomPom Maker or some pieces of cardboard 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.
  • Mantras & Mala Bead Necklace Making

    Learn how to make your own mala bead necklace with gemstones, lava, rudraksha, and wooden beads. Mala bead necklaces have 108 beads and a tassel and are used to count mantras when meditating. When not being used as a tool, these necklaces symbolize our intent and presence through the power of their gemstones. These necklaces are beautiful creations, and perfect to wear all year around, or give as a very special gift. Laura Neal of Malas & Mandalas will teach you about the different properties of gemstones as well as discuss mantras to use with your Mala necklace. All quality materials such as beads, gemstones, strands, etc. are included in the fee. "Laura was a great instructor! She included numerous “value-adds” to the class and I loved the selection of gems and stones. Lots of follow-up, handouts, etc. Excellent class!" "What a fun class! Laura was engaging, informative and helpful. I love my mala bead necklace and wear it proudly!" Beads, Malas and Students!
  • Intro to Papermaking with Mikhala

    If you are looking to make a lovely gift, or just want to enjoy an evening of learning how to make beautiful and unique handcrafted paper, come try your hand at papermaking! Join Mikhala Kaseweter for an evening of zero-waste practical art. We’ll be turning old scrap paper and junk mail into fresh sheets, recycling paper in the same way that paper mills do but on a small scale. You’ll learn about the pulping process, spend time pulling sheets using a mold and deckle, and make connections between art form and industry. Prepare to get splashed on and your hands messy! Take home newly recycled paper sheets that can be used for notes, gift tags, cards, or framed artwork. All supplies are included in the fee. All ages welcome!
  • Visible Mending with Ande

    This class will help you learn how to mend jeans, pants, shirts, bags, jersey t shirts, and more! Visible mending is great for tears, rips, stains, logos, etc. You will learn several visible mending techniques in this class including stitch patterning, applique, reverse applique, and paper piecing. This new series is a perfect chance to personalize your look and get creative! Some experience with hand sewing is helpful, but not necessary. If you can thread a needle, you can mend! This is a hand-sewing class appropriate for ages 14+. Be prepared to experiment with color, shapes, and lines. Please bring clothing that you would like to mend, fix, or spruce up. Scrap fabric will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. Small scraps and old clothing scraps welcome! Material cost includes your very own mending kit (valued at $25), and a selection of sashiko thread and bobbins to use during class.
  • Charcuterie Board Workshop

    Join us for one of our most popular classes, a two-session woodworking experience where you’ll create a charcuterie board that becomes a lasting keepsake, gift, or centerpiece. No experience is necessary. I’ll have wood prepared in various states so you can do as much or as little power-tool work as you’re comfortable with. Although this is a beginner class, we’re also offering an Introduction to Woodworking and Shop Tools workshop for students who want to experience a wider variety of tools. It’s a great standalone class and not required for this workshop, but highly recommended if you are not familiar with woodworking hand and power tools. All woods used in this class are repurposed/reclaimed—sourced from pallets, shipping containers, and old furniture. You’ll choose from a wide selection of hardwoods (maple, ash, purpleheart, birch, Brazilian cherry, oak, and more). For this session, there’s also a healthy supply of reclaimed black walnut with rich color and striking grain. All materials are included, and students are welcome to bring their own wood if they’d like to repurpose it. What you’ll do Session 1: Choose from a large selection of hardwoods. Some pieces will be ready to use; others will need preparation—planeing, jointing/edge-joining, glue-up, and clamping—to form your board blank. Tools may include the miter saw, table saw, planer, and clamps. Session 2: Refine your board by sanding or planeing to a uniform surface, then draw and cut your handle/profile on the band saw or scroll saw. Finish by sanding smooth, cleaning, and applying food-grade oil. Each student gets extra oil for at-home care. By the end, you’ll leave with a finished, food-safe charcuterie board that’s both functional and beautiful—ready to use or gift. Every student will go home with their own beautiful and uniquely crafted board. 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 and no open toed shoes or looser clothing. Age: 16+ "Tony is a very dedicated, enthusiastic teacher with a clear love of his craft. He was so generous with his time, often starting class early and always willing to stay late to make sure everyone left with a satisfying product. I recommend his class whole-heartedly!"
  • Markus Grossalber (flickr) (CC BY 2.0)

    Autumn Harvest Botanical Candles

    Enjoy the warm glow and blissful aroma of a crackling candle in the cool fall nights! May your light shine bright as the brilliantly colored leaves float to the ground. Join Kelley Robie of Horsetail Herbs and learn how to make your own natural “fireside candles” scented with essential oils. The basics of candle making will be covered as we create a Botanical Decorated Glass Votive Candle and a Luminous Tea Light Candle, using wooden and cloth wicks to create the soothing sounds of a soft crackling fire. Using soy and sweet-smelling beeswax as our base we will review necessary equipment and discover the nuances of candle making.
  • Etch Your Own Glassware

    Glass etching is the process of making glass look “frosted”. Sisters, Betsey Dempsey and Deb Rooney will teach you how to create an etched design on glassware. Students will choose stencils and two glass pieces to create their very own personalized designs that they will bring home at the end of class. The final projects make great gifts! For students aged 13 and older. This class involves the use of an x-acto knife and etching cream, an acid based product. Safety glasses and gloves will be provided. Note: Those very sensitive to any minor chemical odor might avoid this class.
  • Woodturning Trees with Nick Rosato

    Join Nick Rosato, a professional wood turner and owner of Vermont Peppermill, as he takes you through crafting a set of perfectly lathe turned trees. These are beautiful to display all year long, and especially during the holiday season. In this 2-session class you will make a set of trees to gift or display proudly in your home. All materials are included in the fee. No woodworking or lathe experience necessary. 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! "I went into Woodturning Trees with Nick Rosato with zero lathe experience, worried as everyone else in the class recounted their previous work turning bowls or pens. There was absolutely no need to worry - Rosato was there with good advice every step of the way to make sure I knew what I was doing. His advice was clear and concise and extremely helpful, even on the more advanced cuts. I really appreciated his feedback about what I was doing right, too, so I knew when I was going in the right direction. I've already recommended the class to several friends and I'm excited to sand and finish my little grove of woodturned trees."
  • Dot Mandalas & Mindfulness

    Join us for a relaxing 2-hour 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.