Classes in the Arts

Register for these programs: by phone (507-664-3700), in person at FiftyNorth, or by clicking on the title of the class
Please pre-register and check-in for all classes no matter your membership levels. It is also important to check-in at the front desk when you arrive for your class.  We use attendance data for grant applications, insurance reimbursement, space planning and determining whether or not to cancel a class.
Scholarships are available to help defray the cost of classes for those who find the cost a financial hardship

Fused Glass Ornament Class

Tuesday, November 26
10:00-11:30am

Looking to try fused glass? Here is your chance. In this class you will make three ornaments, a Christmas tree, a snowman and a Christmas ball.  The ornaments will make great gifts. Materials provided.

Instructor: Geralyn Thelen
Capacity: Minimum: 8 Maximum: 12
Cost: $40 Nonmbr, $35 Mbr, $20 Platinum
Space: Room 102
Registration deadline: November 19

Textile Art Class 8″ X 10″ Wall Hanging Quilt

Monday, December 2
10:00-12:00pm

Learn to make a “raw edge applique” collage quilt. No sewing required!
Kathy will instruct you on how to cut the pieces using the pattern and how to place the feathers, petals and leaves. The pieces will be ironed onto the 8” X 10” sky fabric. The last step is to attach a binding fabric. Kathy will also demonstrate stitching that can be done on the background sky fabric.

No online registration. Please call the front desk at 507-664-3700 or Elaine Meyers at 507-664-3703 to register. You must choose which print you wish to make at the time of registration so the kits can be prepared before class.
You will have your choice of a Cardinal, Poinsettia or Chickadee.

MATERIALS PROVIDED: The kit will include: an assortment of collage fabrics, a pattern and the backing, which is a 3-layer piece consisting of: (background sky fabric, the layer of batting & the back fabric). Also, binding fabric.
NOTE: Bring your own fabric scissors.

Instructor: Kathy Weed
Capacity: 12
Cost: $30 nonmbr, $26 mbr, $12 platinum
Space: Room 102
Registration deadline: November 22

Cardinal

Poinsettia

Chickadee

Napkin Folding

Tuesday, December 17
1:00-2:00pm

Napkin folding is an easy way to elevate your tabletop décor. Creative napkin folds serve two purposes: They have a significant impact on the overall design, atmosphere, and visual appeal of your event, and they provide you with an opportunity to bring additional, practical details into your place setting.
You will be learning how to fold a tree, a rose and a fan. You will be given step-by-step directions and photo printouts to take home.

Instructor: Patty Ciernia and Michelle Brant
Capacity: 12
Cost: Free
Space: Room 103

Using Hammers to Form Sheet Metal

Tuesdays, January 7, 14, 21
10:00am-12:00pm
Location: Off Site

In this series of three, two-hour classes, you will learn the basics of forming light-gauge sheet metal (zinc & copper) using various hammers and blocks (anvils).  The first item will be a simple candle holder with a zinc base and a copper sleeve.  Second, you will make dishes from either copper or zinc.  These may be round bowls, shallow trays or variations of these shapes.  Finally, you will make a spoon similar to one designed by Alexander Calder.   (Calder was most famous for his mobiles made from wire and sheet metal.  He once said: I think best in wire.)
This class will be limited to six enrollees so that each participant will have their own tools and space to work.
During the classes, you will be expected to wear safety classes and hearing protection.  Foam earplugs are available at the Cannon Valley Makers; if you prefer muff-type ear protection you should bring your own.   CVM also has a small selection of safety glasses; if you have your own, please bring your own.  If you normally wear glasses, they are probably adequate, unless the lenses are very small.
Come prepared to have fun taking out your frustrations pounding on a piece of metal and making some interesting items to keep and use at home. Materials provided.
If you have questions, please contact Dave at 815-341-1548 (text or voice).

Instructor: David Peterson
Capacity: 6
Cost: $140 non-member, $130 member
Space: Cannon Valley Makers, 300 Railway St, Dundas, MN
(Gray steel building kitty-corner from the municipal parking lot.)
Transportation is on your own
Registration deadline: January 3

Make-Your-Own Collage and Card Elements

Thursday, January 16
1:00-4:00pm

If you’re a collage artist or enjoy card-making, you know that art supply stores are full of patterned paper.  But why buy when you can make your own unique, painted papers!

During this class, you’ll have the chance to play with a variety of techniques.
** Stenciling: There will be lots of stencils to use to create layers using acrylic paints. Or try stenciling with water colors for a whole different look.
** Layers, layers, layers: Alternate colors of acrylic paint to create papers with depth and interest.
** Ink & Marbles: Dunk marbles in ink and then roll ‘em around on papers. You’ll love the look.
** Printing with vegetables and fruits: Don’t worry, we won’t be using potatoes like you did in elementary school. We’ll make dazzling papers printing with oranges, lemons, peppers, fennel, garlic, corn cobs and a few other bits of produce.

There will be time to create many papers so you’ll go home with a wide assortment. You also may want to swap papers with others for even more variety.

MATERIALS PROVIDED:
Assorted papers, acrylics watercolors, marbles, brushes, palette knives, brayers and sponges, assorted fruits and vegetables
*PARTICIPANTS – Please bring an apron, or wear clothes that you don’t mind getting some paint on.
Let that inner child out and have fun!

Instructor: Pat Jorstad
Capacity: 12
Cost: $45 Nonmember, $35 Member
Space: Room 105
Registration deadline: January 13