Fiber Arts

Explore the art of fiber in a welcoming and creative community at 577. Our small-group classes, led by skilled fiber artists and passionate instructors, offer hands-on learning for all experience levels. Beginners can start with foundational skills like sewing, crochet, and embroidery, while more advanced participants can expand their expertise with classes on visible mending, machine sewing, basket weaving, and more. Classes take place in the Cottage and Virginia’s House, with offerings that change each month, providing endless opportunities for inspiration and discovery.

Join us to explore the rich traditions of fiber arts and bring your creativity to life.

The expansion of fiber arts offerings at 577, including loom knitting, block printing, and handweaving, is made possible in part by an investment of public funds from the Ohio Arts Council (OAC). The OAC is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically.

Upcoming Classes

March classes open for registration on Wednesday, January 28 at 9am. Click HERE to view a full list of upcoming classes. 

Needle Felting: Skiing Snowman
Tuesday, January 13 ~ 12pm to 4pm

Enjoy learning basic needle felting techniques as we create a snowy friend who is full of charm and ready to hit the slopes. Your instructor will demonstrate how to make basic shapes for the body and how wire can be used to make your creation possible. We’ll complete our projects with pre-painted skis and poles.

Participants will take home their completed project, felting mat, needle in a wooden handle, five extra needles in various sizes, leftover wool, glue, embellishments, a plastic organizer case, a reusable tote to carry everything in, and printed step-by-step instructions. Step-by-step guidance, laughter, relaxation, and creativity are all part of the experience. Completed projects are approximately 7.5 inches tall.

Class Note: Multi needle tools are helpful. Some will be available to purchase in class at $10.00 for Clover 3 needle holder and $12.00 for a Clover 5 needle holder.

Community Instructor: Iva Jean Kristek

Intro to Crochet
Wednesday, January 14 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Wednesday, February 11 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Learn how to tie a slip knot, how to chain stitch (the foundation of crochet), and the single crochet stitch in this fun introductory class. Whether you need a refresher or you’ve never picked up a hook before, this is the class for you!

Class will begin with choosing your project, yarn color, and the correct sized hook. All materials are included, but students are welcome to bring their own yarn or crochet hooks as well as a notepad and pen for taking notes. Pattern options: Washcloth, Straight Scarf, or Baby Blanket. All supplies are included. No experience is necessary.

Class Note: This class is the pre-requisite class for advanced crochet classes. 

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Basket Making: Woven Grapevine Tray
Friday, January 16 ~ 12:30pm to 4:30pm

Learn how to create a beautiful woven tray using wild grapevine harvested right here at 577! In this hands-on class, you’ll form the tray’s rim with natural grapevine, then use round reed to secure the ribs, and flat reed to weave the base. The finished tray will be approximately 14 inches in diameter—perfect for displaying on your table or counter as a decorative piece.

Most participants will complete their tray during the 4-hour session, but if you need more time, you’ll leave with the skills and all the materials you need to finish your project at home.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Intro to Loom Knitting: Hats
Saturday, January 17 ~ 1pm to 3pm
Saturday, February 14 ~ 1pm to 3pm

This beginner-friendly class is the perfect, risk-free way to explore loom knitting using 577’s knitting looms.

In this class, you’ll learn loom knitting terminology and get familiar with the tools. You’ll master the basics, including how to cast-on, knit, and finish a project. By the end, you’ll have created your very own sample loom-knitted hat to take home.

All materials are provided, but participants are welcome to bring their own 24- or 31-peg loom and hook if they’d like. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your curiosity and enthusiasm.

577 Staff Instructor: Lindsey Grider

Basket Making: Open-Weave Yarn Basket
Friday, January 23 ~ 12:30pm to 4:30pm

Learn a basic twining technique to weave an open, flexible basket out of #1 round reed. This basket would be perfect to store yarn or display light materials hanging from a hook or nail. While most participants will finish their baskets during this 4-hour class, those who don’t will leave with the knowledge and enough materials to complete their project at home. Completed baskets will measure approximately 1 ft high by 10 inches wide.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Learn to Weave
Saturday, January 24 ~ 9am to 12pm
Saturday, February 7 ~ 9am to 12pm

If you’ve ever wondered what weaving is all about or how a loom works, this is the class for you! This beginner class is an introduction to handweaving on a rigid heddle loom. Participants will explore the handweaving process and learn the basics, such as weaving terminology, parts of the loom, how to select fiber for weaving, tips for successful weaving, and how to cut work off the loom and finish it.

Participants will work on pre-warped rigid heddle looms (so the looms are already set up and you’ll get weaving right away) and will use colorful wool yarns to create their first weaving project: a weft-faced mug rug. When complete, mug rugs will be approximately 5″ x 5″.

Important Class Notes: This class is a prerequisite for more handweaving classes to come in 2026. As looms will be pre-warped, class does not include how to dress a loom, but there will be a discussion of the process. Participants will use wool fibers in class.

Community Instructor: Ellen Seeburger

Creative Weaving Workshop
Saturday, January 24 ~ 2pm to 5pm
Tuesday, January 27 ~ 1pm to 4pm
Saturday, February 7 ~ 2pm to 5pm

This class is for those who have taken the introductory Learn to Weave class and would like to continue to weave on a rigid heddle loom with plenty of technical assistance and design advice. Class will begin with a quick refresh of weaving techniques and then a demo of a new technique to build your skills.

January’s workshop focus will be on learning how to use color to design a weaving and how to mix yarn colors. The rest of class time is yours to weave whatever you like. Whether you are interested in weaving samples just to practice, creating another mug rug, trying a new color palette, or designing a wall-hanging to decorate your home–this is a great opportunity to use 577’s looms to further your weaving skills—or to unwind and enjoy the weaving process for relaxation. A variety of different yarns will be available for you to get creative with, and looms will be pre-warped. Participants will weave a project of their choice.

Class Note: Participants must have taken the introductory Learn to Weave class prior to taking a Creative Weaving Workshop. Participants will work on pre-warped looms 5” in width and be able to weave up to 12” in length. All projects must be cut off the loom 15 minutes before the end of the session to allow for cleanup. This class does not include individual instruction on dressing the loom.

Community Instructor: Ellen Seeburger

Intro to Knitting
Wednesday, January 28 ~ 6pm to 8pm
Wednesday, February 25 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Whether you need a refresher or you’ve never picked up knitting needles before, we’ve got you covered! Participants will learn how to tie a slip knot, cast on (getting the stitches on the needle), and master the knit stitch. We’ll also introduce the purl stitch to help build a solid foundation for tackling beginner patterns. To wrap things up, you’ll learn how to cast off so you can finish your project at home.

Everyone will begin by choosing their project—either a washcloth or a straight scarf—and selecting from a variety of yarn types and colors. We’ll provide the tools that best match your chosen yarn and project.

Participants will take home a pair of straight knitting needles, a skein of yarn, and printed handouts for reference, along with the skills and confidence to start knitting basic rectangular patterns on their own. Bring your questions and leave ready to cast on your next project!

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Coiled Gourd Bowl with Lemongrass
Friday, January 30 ~ 12:30pm to 4:30pm

Learn a simple coiling method to create a beautiful woven bowl. Everyone will start with a cured gourd base with pre-drilled holes in the rim. Using waxed linen thread and lemongrass leaves grown on the 577 grounds, we’ll learn how to create the woven sides of the bowl and complete our beautifully natural and handmade projects.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Intro to Crochet for Families (Ages 7 to 17/Adult 18+)
Saturday, January 31 ~ 10am to 12pm

Learn to crochet together as a family! Whether you need a refresher or you’ve never picked up a hook before, each adult and child pair will focus on how to tie a slip knot, how to chain stitch (the foundation of crochet), and the single crochet stitch. Each participant will create a project of their choice – a dishcloth, a coaster, a scarf, or a little lap blanket.

Participants will have a variety of yarns and tools on hand to choose from. We’ll start by choosing your desired project, your yarn color, and the correct-sized hook. All supplies are included to reduce beginner frustration from using the wrong tools. Everyone will receive a crochet hook and a ball of yarn, along with handouts for reference when practicing and helping each other at home.

Class Notes: Each registration is for one (1) youth between the ages of 7 to 17, with an accompanying adult 18 years old or older. Due to the small class size, only one adult may accompany the youth registered. If an adult would like to accompany multiple youth participants, please sign up each youth participant individually and list the adult’s name for each registration.

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Intro to Knitting for Families (Ages 7 to 17/Adult 18+)
Wednesday, February 4 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Join us for a cozy evening by the fireside in Virginia’s Library and learn to knit together as a family! Whether you need a refresher, or you’ve never picked up knitting needles before, each adult and child pair will focus on how to cast on to their knitting needles and how to do the knit stitch. We’ll also touch on the purl stitch and how to cast off or finish a project. Each participant will create a project of their choice – a dishcloth, a coaster, a scarf, or a little lap blanket.

Participants will have a variety of yarns and tools on hand to choose from. We’ll start by choosing your desired project, your yarn color, and the correct-sized needles. All supplies are included to reduce beginner frustration from using the wrong tools. Everyone will receive illustrated handouts, straight knitting needles, and a skein of yarn for practicing and helping each other at home.

Class Notes: Each registration is for one (1) youth between the ages of 7 to 17, with an accompanying adult 18 years old and older. Due to the small class size, only one adult may accompany the youth registered. If an adult would like to accompany multiple youth participants, please sign up each youth participant individually and list the adult’s name for each registration.

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Macramé: Heart Wall Hanging
Thursday, February 5 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Learn to make a unique macramé heart wall hanging using just three types of macramé knots. Step-by-step instructions will be demonstrated throughout class. Completed projects will be approximately 14 inches wide by 24 inches long, and everyone will also take home an “S” hook for hanging their piece.

Unlock your creativity and explore the art of macramé in this hands-on class. If you can tie your shoes, you can learn macramé!

Community Instructor: Sherry Kertesz

Woven Iris & Gladiolus Vase
Friday, February 6 ~ 12:30pm to 4:30pm
Saturday, February 7 ~ 12:30pm to 4:30pm

Learn a basic twining technique to weave yellow flag iris leaves and gladiolus leaves into a woven vase. Mason jars will be provided to assist in weaving and will be taken home to use inside your vase. This technique of weaving with long leaves creates a soft texture with a nice variation in colors throughout the work.

Most participants will finish their vases during this 4-hour class, and those who don’t will leave with the knowledge and enough materials to complete their project at home. Finished vases will measure approximately 6 inches high by 4 inches wide.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Needle Felting: Charming Fox
Tuesday, February 10 ~ 11:30am to 4:30pm

Enjoy learning basic needle felting techniques as we create a charming fox friend. This class will guide you through making an armature to support the body, forming basic shapes, and finishing your fox with blended wool and added eyes.

Participants will take home their completed project, any leftover wool, a wooden handle with needle, extra multi sized needles, felting mat, organizer case, and reusable tote bag. Step-by-step guidance, laughter, relaxation, and creativity are all part of the experience. Completed projects are approximately 4 inches tall.

Class Note: Multi needle tools are helpful. Some will be available to purchase in class at $10.00 for Clover 3 needle holder and $12.00 for a Clover 5 needle holder.

Community Instructor: Iva Jean Kristek

Embroidered Gingham Heart
Tuesday, February 10 ~ 2pm to 4pm

Learn the basics of embroidery on gingham as you create a hand-stitched heart. Inspired by chicken scratch embroidery, a variation of cross stitch, this beginner-friendly project uses simple stitches in a pattern with the gingham squares as a grid.

Participants will receive two pieces of gingham (one to stitch in class and one to take home), a 5” embroidery hoop, and two skeins of embroidery floss.

Community Instructor: Ellen Seeburger

Crochet II: In the Round ~ Basket or Beanie
Wednesday, February 18 ~ 6pm to 8pm

Ready to take your crocheting skills to the next level? Now that you have completed Intro to Crochet and know the single crochet stitch, it’s time to learn how to crochet in the round! In this hands-on class, you’ll choose your project, a cozy beanie or a stylish basket, select your yarn color, and pick the right hook to match. From there, your instructor will guide you through reading a simple crochet pattern and confidently starting your project.

To keep the experience smooth and frustration-free, all supplies are included with your registration: yarn, a hook, and a color-printed pattern. Choose to create a beanie in your preferred size or a basket/bowl in small or medium. By the end of class, you’ll have the skills, tools, and confidence to continue your crochet journey at home. Project sizes will vary based on your chosen project. Participants are welcome to bring a notepad and pen to take notes; all other supplies are provided.

Class Notes: Participants must have completed Intro to Crochet at 577 before registering for any Crochet II class.

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Ivy Round Weave Wall Hanging
Wednesday, February 18 ~ 6pm to 8:30pm

Create a unique wall-hanging on a hoop made from wild materials. Participants will choose from a selection of pre-dried English ivy hoops, sustainably harvested from the 577 grounds, before learning how to “warp” their circular hoop in preparation to weave. A variety of yarns, felting wool scraps, fabric strips, and feathers will be available for use.

Most participants will finish their wall hanging during class; those who don’t will leave with the knowledge and enough materials to complete their project at home. Ivy hoops measure approximately 10-12 inches in diameter.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Fireside Sip & Stitch for Crocheters & Knitters
Saturday, February 21 ~ 10am to 12pm

Enjoy a relaxing morning by the fire with fellow crochet and knitting enthusiasts as you work on your projects with guidance and support from a knowledgeable instructor. This class is perfect for anyone who’s stuck on a stitch and needs a little help, fiber folks looking for the motivation to finish a handmade gift, or anyone seeking friendly conversation while knitting or crocheting in the cozy Library of Virginia’s House. Grab your favorite tea, coffee, or hot cocoa from one of our many local coffee shops and let’s get you stitching.

Participants are invited to bring their tools, yarn, and any patterns they are currently working on. You’ll have time to focus on your projects, and your experienced instructor will be on hand to answer your questions and help troubleshoot as needed.

Class Note: Participants are expected to have completed Intro to Crochet at 577 or have equivalent experience. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you determine if this class is a good fit.

Community Instructor: Annie Johnson

Grapevine Gathering Basket
Saturday, February 21 ~ 10am to 3pm

Learn to make a basket using a mix of natural materials, including grapevine, wisteria, maypop vine, and red dogwood twigs harvested from the grounds at 577. This basket, known as a gathering or “egg-style” ribbed basket, begins by binding two grapevine or wisteria hoops. Participants will learn the God’s Eye method to fasten the two hoops together, add red dogwood ribs or spokes, and then weave materials like maypop vine and flat reed into the base of the basket.

Completed baskets will measure approximately 15-18 inches wide by 15-18 inches high. Grapevine and wisteria hoops will vary slightly in size. Most participants will finish their baskets during this five-hour class; those who don’t will leave with the knowledge and enough materials to complete their project at home. Participants are welcome to bring snacks.

577 Staff Instructor: Samantha Day

Weave a Scarf
Two-Part Class:
Saturday, February 21 ~ 1pm to 4pm
Sunday, February 22 ~ 1pm to 4pm

Hand weave a color gradient scarf in this two-day class for weavers looking to complete a larger project on a rigid heddle loom. After a quick refresher on weaving techniques, participants will select their weft yarn from four available color options and weave a scarf from start to finish.

The class includes a discussion of how to plan and select yarn for weaving projects, along with an overview of different finishing techniques. Looms will be pre-warped, and finished scarves will range in length up to 60 inches (including fringe) and approximately 6.5 inches wide. Class Note: This project will be using a wool blend yarn.

Prerequisite: To register, participants must have successfully completed 577’s Learn to Weave class.

Community Instructor: Ellen Seeburger

Class Locations & Parking Map

Signed up for a class and need help finding your classroom location and parking? Each class description lists its location. Click the button below to view a full map of the grounds and buildings with two lots available for easy and convenient parking.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

Because space is limited, we rely on you to register for classes thoughtfully. Please help us continue to offer these wonderful classes as affordably as possible by adhering to the following registration, cancellation, and refund policies.

Photo & Video Release

Photos and videos may be taken during 577 classes and events for use on our website and other relevant media outlets and your attendance constitutes consent. View the full policy below including how you can opt-out of this release. 

Winter Break Closures: The gardens and grounds will be closed on December 24, December 25, December 31, and January 1, and the Curiosity Shop will be closed from December 24 through January 4.

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