Learn paper sculpting and assemblage techniques to create your own framed wall art in this open-ended paper crafting workshop. Bring photographs and memorabilia, or use provided supplies to craft something unique. Choose from a large selection of map silhouettes of towns, cities, and states—or skip the map and let your mementos take center stage. All materials are included, and you’ll leave with a 9-inch-square, finished, framed work of art ready to display in your home or give as a gift. New and returning students welcome.

Learn to paint freely and boldly using acrylic paint. While we will go over the basics like composition, value, and color, the focus will be to connect with your intuition, paint from your heart, and discover your artistic voice. Each week we will focus on a different subject: landscape, still life, human figure, portrait, animals, urban landscape, interior study, and abstraction. All levels are welcome. The class materials list can be found here.

Attendance Policy: If you are unable to commit to attending all sessions, please do not register. Dig deeper into your clay craft to create more intentional, consistent, and functional pieces in this class for students who have basic experience with the potter’s wheel. Set a personal goal—throw and trim a specific form, produce thinner pots, or experiment with larger pieces of clay—and focus on achieving it throughout the course. Cone 5/6 clay, basic throwing tools, and decorating materials such as glazes will be provided, and your pieces will be fired in an electric kiln to produce food-, dishwasher-, and microwave-safe functional ware.

Transform a printed book into a one-of-a-kind work of art using cutting, painting, collage, stitching, and other creative techniques. See samples of altered books and learn a variety of methods to create your own. Use your book as a journal, a memory of a trip or person, or simply a space to explore your artistic ideas. Papers, markers, pencils, and other supplies will be provided. Bring a hardcover book and any personal items you’d like to include, such as photos, letters, maps, or keepsakes.

It’s true—anyone can draw! Learning to draw starts with learning to see. Explore basic techniques for capturing objects and scenes with accuracy and clarity. Each week introduces new concepts, including perspective, proportion, line, value, and the relationships between objects. Practice your skills through guided drawing sessions inspired by natural landscapes and animals. Demonstrations, examples, and interactive exercises will help build confidence and mastery. All levels are welcome, including returning students.The materials list can be found here.

Expand your painting practice by discovering artistic potential in everyday and unconventional scenes in this course for intermediate and advanced artists. Use acrylics and gouache to explore bold composition, expressive color, and confident paint handling as you capture unexpected viewpoints and subject matter. Projects encourage experimentation, personal interpretation, and pushing creative boundaries through observation and advanced painting techniques. The class materials list can be found here.

Carving fresh, found wood into useful objects is a fun, relaxing, and satisfying hobby. We will cover an overview of “green” woodworking, including tools, materials, process, technique, and safety. We will talk through the early part of the process of turning a log into a rough carving blank with an axe. Then you will learn safe, effective knife grips so you can carve your project. We’ll wrap up with a discussion on finishing touches, decoration possibilities, and how to continue in the craft. Class fees include all materials needed, as well as use of loaner tools. Butter Spreader/Cheese Knife: Wooden spreaders, present in nearly every Swedish kitchen, were traditionally hand-carved. Yours will be great for spreading butter and also soft, medium, and crumbly cheeses. This single-session class is perfect for complete beginners. Wooden Spoon: The serving spoons we’ll make have an extra-large bowl for generous helpings and a stout handle for ease of use. No prior experience is required, but some familiarity with woodworking, carving, or other handcrafts would be beneficial for this two-night class.

Discover the magic of origami and the satisfaction of creating beautiful geometric designs from simple paper. We’ll start with basic folds and techniques, explore how pieces connect, and guide you step by step through each creation. As your skills grow, you’ll move on to more intricate designs while refining your folding techniques.

IMPORTANT: Due to exceptionally high demand for this class, we ask that you DO NOT register if you have already taken this class two or more times. This will allow new students to experience the class. Thank you for your understanding. Also, please do not register for this class unless you can commit to attending all sessions. Due to the focused nature of this class, it is disruptive if students miss (or are late) for classes. Pottery is one of the oldest expressions of human inventiveness and creativity, dating from before the Neolithic period and discovered in various locations around the globe. In this class for beginners, explore the potentials of clay by creating both functional vessels and sculptural forms. Learn basic handbuilding, wheel throwing, and surface decorating techniques. All work will be glazed and fired, resulting in vibrant, durable, waterproof, and food-safe pieces of art.

Discover the basics of color through watercolor paint in this beginner-friendly workshop. Create your own color wheel, explore how colors mix and interact, and try hands-on color exercises while learning key color vocabulary. All materials are included, and you’ll leave with your color experiments, a color wheel, and a basic set of watercolor paints to continue creating at home.

Experience the entire cyanotype process, from blank paper to striking blue prints. One of the earliest photographic techniques, cyanotypes (also called blueprints or sunprints) let you create unique images using natural and found objects. Experiment with leaves, flowers, lace, jewelry, and more to craft one-of-a-kind prints. Perfect for beginners or anyone curious about alternative photographic methods. Take home 8–10 original prints and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of natural light and texture.

Bring your photos to life with Adobe Lightroom. No prior experience is required to start using this powerful photo editing tool. Begin by importing and organizing your images, then move into essential editing tools and techniques, including exposure, contrast, cropping, curves, color, and presets. Build confidence using sharpening, masking for targeted adjustments, and spot removal to clean up your images. Finish by exporting your photos and locating them on your computer, ready to share.

Discover the centering art of dot mandala in this step-by-step class for absolute beginners. Begin by creating these beautiful, intricate, and symmetrical patterns on paper, then advance to embellishing natural stones. Learn structured techniques and take home supplies so you can continue your dot mandala journey on your own. Most materials provided. Please note: Your first rock will be provided. After that you must purchase or collect your own.

Draw and paint botanical subjects from direct observation. Learn mindful drawing techniques to improve accuracy and classical botanical painting methods using transparent watercolor washes on hot-press watercolor paper. Create detailed paintings of leaves, flowers, fruits, fungi, and more. New and continuing students are welcome. The class materials list can be found here.

Focus on faces in this two-day drawing workshop for artists at any level. Whether your style is realistic, stylized, or cartoon-inspired, you’ll explore techniques for understanding head and facial structure, capturing expression, and achieving a convincing likeness. Through demonstrations and guided practice, you’ll develop the skills and confidence to draw expressive, lifelike portraits. The materials list can be found here.

Immortalize your furry (or feathered or scaly) friend with a one-of-a-kind embroidered pet portrait. Whether you’re brand new to embroidery or a seasoned stitcher, you’ll learn how to turn a favorite photo into a custom embroidered line portrait. Before the first session, you’ll work with the instructor to select the perfect image so she can prepare a personalized pattern just for you. Create a 6-inch piece in the October class, or make a 4-inch version perfect for hanging as a holiday ornament in December. All materials are provided.

Learn the basics of embroidery. We’ll start with a practice swatch to explore the different stitches. Then you’ll have the opportunity to create and complete a structured design you can display in your home. Embroidery rewards patience and focus. While it moves at its own pace, it’s also forgiving, making it ideal for anyone who wants to create with their hands without fear of mistakes. Some materials provided. Open to new and returning students. NOTE: Students should bring a pair of scissors to each class (embroidery or other sharp scissors are fine). Instructor will provide basic materials to get you started and, at the end of the first class, will provide a short supply list to pursue your individual projects.

Discover the luminous versatility of soft pastels. Blend, layer, and mix colors to create depth, movement, and texture. Explore composition, develop color schemes, and experiment with a variety of papers and supports. Topics may include landscapes, still lifes, and abstract color studies, inspired by the great pastel masters. Whether capturing realistic light or exploring expressive mark-making, you’ll find a balance of structure and creative freedom. Demonstrations, feedback, and group discussions support the growth of your personal pastel style. All levels welcome. The class materials list can be found here.

Do you enjoy drawing people but struggle with proportions or have trouble capturing hands and feet? Build confidence and sharpen your skills in this studio class focused on figure drawing from a live nude model. Through demonstrations, short lectures, and one-on-one guidance, you’ll learn essential techniques to improve your observation and bring greater accuracy to your work. Ideal for anyone looking to strengthen their figure drawing or those new to working from a live model. The materials list can be found here.

Move beyond the “auto” setting and discover what your digital camera can really do. Explore its features and menus, then get a clear overview of photography basics, including shutter speed, ISO, aperture, focus, and more. Learn how lighting and composition can enhance your images, and gain confidence capturing a range of subjects, from portraits and landscapes to street photography. Elevate your skills from simply taking pictures to creating compelling photographs. Please note: Bring your camera to each class. Camera must have a “manual” mode that allows adjustment of both shutter speed and aperture settings.

Learn the basics of glass fusing while designing and creating a menorah for Hanukkah using glass sheets, frits, powders, and stringers. See different ways to position the candle cups and get help cutting the glass according to your design. In addition, craft a mezuzah and find creative ways to add to your design. Those not of the Jewish faith can create a non-religious candelabra or kinara for Kwanzaa and an ornament instead of a mezuzah. Please note: Your instructor will fire your creations in his own kiln and they will be available for pickup at Arlington High School within two weeks. Students must wear closed toe shoes, eyeglasses or safety glasses (glasses can be provided to those who do not have them).

Play, print, layer, and explore the creative possibilities of Gelli plate printing. Create a collection of unique prints through hands-on experimentation using acrylic paints, stencils, texture tools, found objects, and layered papers. Perfect for both beginners and experienced creatives, this relaxed studio experience emphasizes curiosity, discovery, and creative freedom. All you need to bring is acrylic paint in your favorite colors and an apron—everything else is provided. Leave with a stack of finished handmade papers ready for collage, mixed media, and future creative projects. Materials: Bring acrylic paints in your favorite colors. All other materials provided.

Whether you have no experience or just need a refresher, learn what you need to get started with machine sewing. Review your machine’s parts and functions, learn to make and change a bobbin, thread the machine, decipher stitch selections, adjust tension, and use the buttonhole function. After some practice and to boost your confidence, undertake a small project, such as a mini bag. Note: Bring your sewing machine in good working order, along with your machine’s instruction manual, if you have it. An assortment of embroidery thread, needles, base fabrics, and sampler designs will be provided. Students should bring scissors and a bag for transporting items.

Crochet is a fun, relaxing craft with endless creative possibilities. Make wearable pieces like hats, scarves, wraps, and bags; home décor such as baskets, placemats, and blankets; stuffed toys; and decorative embellishments including flowers, ruffles, and trims. Beginners: Designed for true beginners, this class introduces the essential techniques needed to start crocheting with confidence. Learn basic stitches, including single and double crochet, along with shaping, increasing and decreasing stitches, reading patterns, and finishing techniques. During the final sessions, put your new skills into practice by completing a beginner-friendly project, such as a hat or basket. Please note: The class fee includes the supplies to get started. Once you decide on a project, you will need to purchase additional supplies specified by instructor ($10-$15). This class is paced for students new to crochet. If you are interested in a class where you can join others and get help working on your own project, please consider the Project Workshop. Project Workshop: For those with some experience or who have taken the beginners class, build your skills in a relaxed, supportive environment while working on projects of your choice. Get ideas, troubleshooting help, and inspiration from the instructor, who will provide a variety of patterns, or bring your own project to work on. Please note: You should already know single and/or double crochet and be comfortable creating a flat piece of crochet.If you have questions about whether or not this class is right for you, please contact ACE before registering.