“The Rush is on at the Villages Folk School”

     The wind was howling as I started the van and headed for our Villages Folk School class at the Congregational church in Keosauqua. Today was the chair caning class taught by Vern Ramsey. His student’s work today was on an antique chair in the fiber rush weave pattern. The different styles of caning are each unique and Vern teaches all of them. If you think about it, probably most of us have one of those antique chairs that have been in the family for years but because of the deteriorated weave it has been tucked away in the attic or closet. Well now is the time to get that old chair back into good-as-new condition. Before you register for a class, however, there is some preparation that needs to be completed prior to re-caning the seat. If the chair is in need of refinishing or replacement of any broken parts, that must be done before coming to class. Once the chair is fitted with the new cane it is ready to take its rightful place in your home. I’m sure stories will be told as you recall grandpa or grandma sitting in that chair. This series of classes taught by Vern Ramsey for the Villages Folk School will restore those family heirlooms and at the same time bring your ancestral history back to life. Go to our folk school website at www.villagesfolkschool.com and make plans to have your chair project ready for the next caning class. Registration is easily done by printing the online form or by calling our office at 319-592-3700.

     The holidays are fast approaching and it is time to start thinking about those Christmas gifts for family and friends. Here is a great idea for you; why not make something special this year. We have some creative classes coming up that will help you to do just that! See for yourself by going to the website and checking them out. Maybe you would like to make a container candle in their favorite mug, or something that becomes a keepsake. It is all very easy if you have the proper instruction. The next few weeks of classes will offer that opportunity for you. See for yourself by reading through the class descriptions or calling our office for any additional information you might need.

     Here is a list of our classes coming up: Container Candles by Joy Hanson, Nov 27; Vintage Card Making by Sandi Dimmitt, Nov 27; Beginning Blacksmithing by Bill Printy and Mark Heisdorffer, Dec 4-5; Keepsakes-Gift Making by Sandi Dimmitt, Dec 4; Hand Piecing, Appliqué & Quilting, Dec 11-12; Container Candles by Joy Hanson, Dec 18.

     We hope to make your holiday season very special by offering you a class with an instructor who will guide you through the steps required to create a very special gift that you can be proud to give. If not for a gift, then something creative that will be the perfect decoration for your home this year and in years to come.

     Register for that special holiday class by going to our website at www.villagesfolkschool.com or by calling our office at 319-592-3700. Make this year very special for someone in your family; perhaps that someone is you!