"To Knead Or Not To Knead Or Just Needle Felting"

         Well, I guess you are never too old to learn something new. Joy Craig was teaching a class in Needle Felting at the Addie Mae Fudge Factory in the Old Woolen Mill at Bonaparte this past weekend. I watched as the ladies jabbed the long, barbed needle over and over into the clump of wool, called roving, they held in their hand. I am certain that I would soon need a trip to the doctor if I were to try this, but they seemed to effortlessly go about their task while holding a casual conversation. Maybe it is just not a “guy” thing! You think? Any way you look at it, the end result was superb. The wool slowly began to take on the shape and the color that each person intended. Joy brought some samples of her work to show everyone, but I noticed that both were making woolen Easter Eggs. This was a specially planned weekend at the Addie Mae Fudge Factory. Three classes were scheduled and each had something to do with wool. Pat Crawford was there demonstrating her wool spinning technique and  Meg King displayed some of her knitting projects. It always  amazes me how much we take for granted something as commonplace as a shirt or sweater. We just go to the store and buy it. Watching a process that dates back to our ancestors brings an entirely new appreciation for the garments we wear.  Taking the raw wool, combing it, carding it, and then spinning it into the desired yarn. Pat showed me how they would spin the wool clockwise and if another layer was added for a thicker yarn it would be spun counterclockwise to keep the yarn from separating. It would then be used for weaving into a woolen fabric or knitting into a desired garment. In its day, the Old Woolen Mill that once operated in the building we were in turned out some of the countries finest woolen fabrics. It is so inspiring to think of yesteryear as the folk school classes take place in these locations. We are privileged to live in Van Buren County where history calls to us from every building and lurks around the next bend in the river. 

     Just four miles up the river in Bentonsport another class was taking place. Betty Printy had another group of students learning how to make Artisan Bread. I took the time this day to stay for the class. I do believe I might just be able to make something like that! Not only did they discuss the different yeasts and starters, they also learned how to knead the bread. Some of the loaves were actually allowed to rise without first being kneaded. Hence making bread reminds us of the days of Shakespeare. Once to the kitchen we must make the decision to knead or not to knead! Betty assures me “fat” is not the question. Once the loaves were adequately prepared they were carefully placed in the ovens to bake. The group continued to discuss different recipes and the ability of each to be unique in their quest for the perfect loaf.

      Soon the timers were going off and the ovens were opened to reveal the separate masterpieces. I didn’t realize that the bread continues to bake inside the crust for another 45 minutes after coming out of the oven. This is really interesting stuff! Not only is it a fun time in the kitchen, but the end result is something you would be proud to serve to royalty. The loaves were each browned to perfection and made a mouthwatering picture as they were placed on the cooling racks. After class I took some time to read through the evaluation forms. Everyone loved the class and were appreciative of Betty’s ability to make it practical for the novice. Another successful weekend of classes comes to a close.

     We invite each of our readers to join us for a fun filled weekend in the Villages Folk School. You can go to our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com and browse through the many classes we offer. Once you find your class, print the registration form on the website, fill it out and mail it to our office along with your payment. If you wish, you may call us for further assistance anytime Tuesday – Friday, 12 noon – 4 p.m. at 319-592-3700.

The following is a list of some of our upcoming classes:

April 3rd:

Blacksmithing: Tool Making

Container Candles

Woodcarving

April 24th:

Melon Basket Weaving

April 27th:

Old Singin’ School

April 29th & 30th:

Printmaking

Don’t let time pass you by. Register now for one of our exciting classes and get set for a great weekend experience!