Well-Crafted: A Season of Hands-On Fun for Grown-Ups
Do you remember what it felt like to be a kid? That excitement of learning something new, making a mess, laughing at your own progress (or lack of) and just creating because it’s fun? That feeling is alive and well — and waiting for you — in the programs offered by Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources this fall.
No experience? No problem! Chatham County’s tap dancing classes are open to all levels, with beginner sessions designed to get participants tapping within weeks. Tap dancing offers numerous health benefits — reducing stress, improving balance, boosting energy and even building new neural pathways. For those with more experience, intermediate and advanced classes are also available. Classes are ongoing with various registration deadlines, so participants are encouraged to sign up early to reserve their spot. See all options!
Enrollment deadline: September 22 | Class begins: September 30
Quilters of all experience levels can enjoy creating a 51″ x 63″ sampler quilt featuring 12 large blocks made from Fat Quarters. This six-class session focuses on the quilt top and utilizes the Accuquilt GO cutter and QUBE set (provided in class). Participants must know how to operate a sewing machine. With a small class size, individualized instruction is a key benefit. Taught by instructor Bea Lee. Register now!
Upcoming sessions:
September 24 (Enrollment deadline: September 22)
October 23 (Enrollment deadline: October 20)
Additional dates available in December
This one-day workshop is designed for artists ready to step outside their creative comfort zones. Taught by Ann Lawtey, the session encourages exploration, bold expression and simplifying detail to push the boundaries between realism and abstraction. Oil and acrylic painters of all skill levels are welcome. Each class is limited to 10 participants to ensure personalized instruction. Recommended photos or magazine clippings can be brought for inspiration. See registration dates!
Enrollment deadline: October 6 | Class date: October 10
Get into the holiday spirit with this playful watercolor workshop! Participants will use watercolors and micron ink pens to create loose, whimsical floral designs perfect for turning into festive holiday cards. This class celebrates spontaneity and creativity — and all supplies are provided. Register now!
Next session: October 9 (Enrollment deadline: October 6)
Second session: November 18 (Enrollment deadline: November 10)
This one-day outdoor painting workshop welcomes artists of all styles and experience levels. Instructor Ann Lawtey provides individualized guidance to help participants explore painting in the open air — whether realistically, abstractly or expressively. The setting at Ferrington Village offers a scenic, inspiring backdrop, thanks to the support of Fitch Creations Inc. Participants should have some prior experience in drawing or painting. A lunch break is included. See registration options!
Enrollment deadline: October 13 | Class begins: October 17
This six-session class is ideal for those new to clay hand building. Each class begins with a demonstration, followed by hands-on time working with clay slabs, molds, textures and glazing. The course includes open studio time, house glaze and firing. Participants must bring a 25lb bag of cone 6 clay and a basic clay tool kit (available via recommended vendors like Ceramica/Cary or Amazon). Instructor Leigh Babcock is available for supply questions at leigh.babcock@chathamcountync.gov.
Enrollment deadline: October 27 | Classes begin: November 3
Dive into the timeless art of mosaics using broken crockery, glass and natural materials. Participants will start with a provided pre-poured steppingstone project to learn the basics, then choose their own creative path with instructor support and studio time. This course welcomes all levels and focuses on both technique and artistic expression. Register now!
Enrollment deadline: November 3 | Class date: November 8
In this fun and easy class, participants will learn how to create coiled fabric bowls using fabric strips wrapped around cotton cording. The same method can be used to make potholders, trivets or larger baskets. A great entry point for beginners, this workshop offers hands-on guidance in a friendly environment. The supply list is available upon registration. Register your spot!