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  • Waitlist
    Sudhamshu Hebbar (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
  • Waitlist
    marc falardeau (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+
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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."
  • 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.
  • Waitlist
    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
  • 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. "Loved the class. Krista was wonderfully patient and the class varied widely in their skill set. "Krista does a great job explaining the knitting basics and provides the class with additional website resources to help us complete our projects."
  • 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!"
  • Starting Soon
    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.
  • 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.
  • Woodturning Trees/Snowmen 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 and/or Snowmen. These are beautiful to display all year long, and especially during the holiday season. In this 2-session class you will learn how to properly use a lathe to handcraft these special projects to gift or proudly display in your home. Each participant will get their own lathe to use throughout the course. All materials are included in the fee. No woodworking or lathe experience necessary. Min age: 16+ Wear closed toed shoes, hat (hair tied back), and bring your own protective eye wear/goggles. No loose clothing or accessories! Only 7 spots available! Nick Rosato turned Trees and a one-piece Snowman (personalized by his daughter!) "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.
  • Small Market Basket

    People in every culture have been crafting beautiful, durable and useful vessels from various materials for thousands of years. Come try this age old tradition and create your very own Market Basket with a wooden handle. This is a 2 part class, suitable for any level of weaver. Using traditional weaving techniques you will create a durable basket for storage, carrying, or a decorative art piece. Students should wear clothing that can get stained and bring an old towel to class. Staining of the fingers and hands will occur when working with pre-stained reed (the stain is all natural and wears off within a couple of days). 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 really enjoyed the class, and students said that night that they were glad they participated. We should definitely do it again!" Vt State University, Patrick C.
  • Trio of Mini Floral Wreaths

    Join Betsy Orvis of Rock Meadow Farm in creating a trio of mini everlasting wreaths, featuring grapevine wreaths adorned with dried flowers and foliage grown on her farm. With a wide variety of colors and textures to choose from, you'll be able to create long lasting decorations to bring beauty and brightness into your home (or to gift) as we head into the holiday season. Feel free to bring your own special items to include in your arrangement. Kids 12 and older are welcome on their own; younger kids can come with an adult. All materials included. You are invited to bring your own glue gun; a selection will also be available.
  • Introduction to Woodworking & Shop Tools

    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. "This was a really great class for people with no experience with woodworking but also some experience! It was such a great opportunity to familiarize yourself with machinery and woodworking. I feel really confident signing up for woodworking classes now, even excited about them!" 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.
  • Woodshop Drop-In Open Studio

    Woodworking drop-in sessions are designed for those with prior woodworking experience that would like use of the CVU woodshop and tools to work on projects independently or with supervision. Participants may bring in their projects and use the shop during the allotted timeframe. Projects will need to be carried in and out of class. Each class will be supervised by Andrew Scott, CVU Woodshop instructors. If you have not taken a woodworking Access class previously, there will be a brief overview of the safety guidelines, protocols, and layout of the shop at the beginning of each session. Enroll in one or as many open sessions as needed to complete your project! Safety Requirements: Wear closed toed shoes, hat or hair tied back, and bring your own protective eye wear/goggles. No loose clothing or accessories! Minimum age requirement: 16+ Prior registration is required for each drop-in session. We will make a decision, based on enrollment, to cancel or run the session 3-days prior to the drop in date. You will be notified by email and our website will be undated.
  • Visible Mending: Backstitch to the Future

    This beginner class will introduce you to basic visible mending techniques to use on jeans, pants, button downs, and skirts. Visible mending is great for holes, stains, logos, and boring/tired garments. This two class session will focus on strengthening the worn area, and introduce you to new mending techniques including transferring stitch patterns onto your garments. There will be individual time to work through your mending questions or stumbling blocks on your current projects. Take a look at your mending stash and bring those jeans that need some TLC! Please note, this is not a darning class, so skip the knits (no socks or sweaters). Needle and sashiko thread provided, as well as a plethora of scrap fabric to choose from. Feel free to bring scrap fabric from your own stash. This hand-sewing class is appropriate for ages 13 and older. "Ande was great--full of enthusiasm and humor, and so generous with sharing her knowledge and tips she has developed along the way. I think this was one of the best Access classes I have taken to date.- Student in Ande's Spring 2025 Mending Class"