At The Winding Deerpath, we are thrilled to offer a range of classes led by talented local artists, designed to ignite your passion and hone your skills. Our classes cater to both beginners looking to explore their creative side and advanced learners aiming to elevate their craft. Join us and immerse yourself in a supportive and inspiring environment where creativity knows no bounds. *Please call or text the shop at 630-618-7608 to register or for information about all of our classes. Of course, we would be delighted if you stopped in the shop to register if you are able. We love to see our customers!
Our two most popular classes: Eco Printing
Beginner level- The Eco Printing process is expertly led by the talented Eco Artist, Elizabeth King. During this process, flower and plant materials are artfully arranged on a scarf to create a unique and stunning fashion accessory. Additionally, for an extra fee, you can also have socks, headbands, and other items crafted simultaneously with the scarf, making your collection even more personalized.
Advanced level- Participants who have experienced the Beginner level class are encouraged to sign-up for the Advanced level if desired. During the Advanced level class, participants use plant materials to dye the fabric before creating their artwork on a scarf. Advanced participants are invited to class 30 minutes before the start time of the Beginner class to complete the dying process.
Please Note: After participants have created their scarves, Elizabeth will take the fabrics to her home to steam set the items. This process takes approximately one hour. Participants are asked to stay in the downtown Geneva area or browse through our shop while waiting. After the steaming process, Elizabeth returns to the shop where participants eagerly unroll their creations to share the final results. We love this part of the process because each scarf is truly a work of art and it is heartwarming to see participants reactions when seeing their new accessory.
Watercolor Painting
Beginner level- Learn to play with paint and water in this delightful class led by watercolorist Paula Jarot! Participants explore how the paint moves with the water while creating a series of bubbles. Next, participants learn simple techniques to paint lush flowers and leaves. Finally, participants learn how to create a simple, yet stunning, landscape with a cloudy sky, trees, and rocks. No experience is necessary for this class!
Next steps class- Paint a lovely meadow with watercolors in our Next Steps class. You will strengthen you skills are you paint flowers, grasses and a beautiful sky.
Birch Trees class- This class is designed for those with more experience with watercolors. Follow Paula as she creates a forest of birch trees with a beautiful, dreamy background.
Please call us at 630-618-7608 if you have any questions about our watercolor classes! Can't decide which class to pick based on your experience? Just call us and we can explain more about the classes and help you decide which level is best for you.
Additional classes Please check Facebook or Instagram for our current list of classes. We update our social media approximately every other month with our new listings. In addition to these offerings, we are always adding new and fun classes for our participants!
Bow Making- Create quick and easy bows using floral ribbon! Jean Larson, a former florist and owner of The Winding Deerpath, leads this class. Once you have mastered making a bow, you will be delighted to use this skill for your home decor and gifts. This is a Beginner Level class and no prior experience is necessary.
Floral Design- This class is also led by Jean Larson. We have offered classes using fresh florals as well as high-quality faux flowers and greenery. Create a seasonal piece for your home that you will be proud to display!
Jewelry Making-Past classes have included making bracelets with natural stones and gems, and creating trendy bracelets with a Girl Scout troop. Watch our calendar for other jewelry making classes as we are currently developing new options for these classes.
Pottery Pumpkins-Led by our fabulous potter Monica Casey, you will learn how to use basic pottery tools to create two decorative pumpkins. Monica will fire the pumpkins and then return them to the shop and you will be called to come and pick up your creations. Monica will discuss painting options for the pumpkins, but painting is not included in this class. Of course, the pumpkins are just as wonderful without any paint! See our past social media posting for more information, or call the shop at 630-618-7608.
Please contact The Winding Deerpath at 630-618-7608 to inquire about group classes. Perfect for Bridal parties, Girls Night Out, Scout troops and more! We are happy to work with you to create a class for your group. Group size is limited to 6 participants as much as possible.