Access At CVUHS

Are you ready for a new challenge in your knitting journey? How about a cable hat? A handmade knitted hat can be a great gift, or keep it for yourself! Techniques taught in this class: Learn to read a charted cable pattern Learn to knit cables with and without a cable needle! Techniques practiced in class: Casting On and Knitting in the Round Knitting, Purling, and Ribbing Knitting Cables Reading a Chart Decreasing for the Crown 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: Worsted Weight Yarn- Adult Size Large needs at least 200 yards. Krista recommends a solid or tonal light to medium dark color yarn in order to see the cables. Must Love Yarn in Shelburne: Berroco Vintage, Berroco Ultra Wool, and Malabrigo Rios Joann Fabrics: Patons of North America: Classic Wool Worsted; K + C: Knit and Crochet Essential Wool Northeast Fibers in Williston: Cascade 220 Needles- You will need two sizes of 16” circular Needles: Size US 6/ 4.0 mm and US 7/ 4.5 mm. The smaller needles are for the ribbing. The larger needles are for the body of the hat. You will need double-pointed needles (DPNs) in size 7 to decrease the crown of the head. Metal needles with sharp points are best. Chiagoo is Krista’s preferred brand of knitting needles. Other Tools: Cable needle, or double pointed needle for holding live cable stitches. Darning needle. Stitch markers and scissors are provided in class. 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.

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, "Midnight Garden" Grab a friend for this fun evening and take home a masterpiece! All materials, including oil paints, are included in the fee. 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!"

Calling all experienced potters! If you have prior wheel experience, feel comfortable creating bowl forms, and would like to volunteer your time at the wheel to create bowls then this is a great opportunity to help those in need through the CVU Empty Bowls Event on April 9th, 2026! Experienced potters are invited to this community wheel turning event at the CVU Pottery Studio on Friday evenings, starting Jan 23rd. Students will create and finish a collection of 15–20 or more bowls, depending on individual proficiency. All completed pieces will be donated to the Empty Bowls Fundraiser*, helping to support local communities combat food insecurity. This is a wonderful opportunity for dedicated studio time, connection with fellow potters, and the chance to use your creativity to uplift our community.*Empty Bowls is a grassroots movement, led by artists and craftspeople, in cities and towns around the world to raise money for food related charities and to bring awareness about food insecurity within local communities. To learn more about Empty Bowls visit https://emptybowls.com/ Layout of classes: 3-4 sessions of wheel throwing 2-3 sessions of trimming 2-3 sessions of glazing *The Empty Bowl Fundraiser Soup Dinner will take place on Thursday, April 9th, 2026 at CVU High School. Tickets will go on sale March 27th! Participate in as many or as few sessions as your schedule allows. All materials and supplies are provided. Thank you for dedicating your time and skill to Empty Bowls 2026! Photos from the Inaugural Empty Bowls 2024 event.

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."

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."

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 unique ring, but also new hobby! Rings can be fabricated using wire and sheet. In this class, students will be using sterling silver sheet to make a ring band that is 4mm or wider. First, we will use hammers and other tools to create interesting 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)

Thinking about taking one of the woodworking classes but haven’t used power tools before? Have tools sitting at home that you’d like to learn how to use safely and confidently? 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. It’s a great fit whether you’re preparing for a project-based class or simply want to make better use of the tools you already own. Who Should Attend: Adults 18+ with little to no experience in woodworking or shop environments — especially those planning to take future shop classes as well as anyone who wants to learn safe, effective use of basic tools for home or hobby 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. Students will also have the option to put those skills to use by making a small, simple project—such as a basic birdhouse—during the class. Along the way, you’ll be able to choose which tools you want to focus on, from basic hand tools to more advanced power tools, so the class aligns with 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) ●Table saw (ripping and crosscutting boards) ●Band saw (curves, resawing) ●Drill press (precision holes) ●Planer & jointer (flattening and smoothing boards) Focus of the Class ●Shop 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 While this class is not required for any other woodworking courses unless specifically stated, it does provides a solid foundation so you can step into future classes already comfortable with the tools and ready to focus on the project. "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!"

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! including an original Zentangle® kit. Ages: 16+

This four-session drawing course introduces the fundamental skills and materials needed to build confidence and creativity as a beginning artist. Students will explore the basics of line drawing, value and shading, and how to organize a strong composition, while learning how artists observe and translate what they see onto paper. Each session will focus on a different set of tools and techniques, including graphite, ink, charcoal, and pastel, giving students hands-on experience with a variety of drawing media. Through guided exercises and demonstrations, participants will learn how each medium creates different effects and how to use them intentionally. Every class will include time to practice new skills and complete a finished drawing, resulting in several pieces suitable for a personal drawing portfolio. No prior drawing experience is required—this class is designed to be supportive, exploratory, and encouraging for anyone interested in learning how to draw or strengthening foundational skills. All materials are included in the fee. Min Age: 15+

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

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

In this hands-on woodworking class, students will design and build a beautiful shaker-style nightstand—a piece known for its clean lines, practical beauty, and timeless appeal. This project is a perfect introduction to furniture-making and will look right at home in any bedroom, entryway, or living space. You’ll learn how to select and prepare lumber, use woodworking tools safely and confidently, and take accurate measurements that lead to professional-looking results. Along the way, we’ll introduce simple but strong joinery techniques that form the foundation of quality furniture construction. As the project comes together, students will shape parts, assemble the nightstand, and apply a smooth, attractive finish that brings out the natural beauty of the wood. Each step is demonstrated and guided, making the process approachable even if you’ve never built furniture before. No prior experience is required—just a willingness to learn, ask questions, and enjoy working with your hands. By the end of the class, you’ll go home with a completed nightstand you can be proud of, along with the skills and confidence to take on future woodworking projects. Min Age: 16+

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

Come learn about fused glass and make a pair of coasters while you’re at it. This workshop will include instruction on using hand tools to cut the glass, using a grinder to get the shape you want and how to make crushed glass (frit) to create your design. Micaela will take your finished product after the class and fire them in a glass kiln; they will be available for pick-up at CVU a week later. All materials are included in class fee. 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.