Duluth Folk School
Duluth, MN 55806 United States duluthfolkschool.com
Feb 2025
Magical Manifestation Candles
Using the principles of visualization and collage, participants in this class will create personalized vision candles.
Find out more »Green Wood Shrink Boxes
Students in this class hollow out a branch, cut a slot in the bottom of the cylinder and snap in a bottom piece. The green wood dries and shrinks around the dry bottom, locking it in place. With a tight-fitting lid, shrink boxes have traditionally been used to store salt, spices and other valuables. Registration is available at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Mar 1, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Mar 1, 2025
Duluth Folk School holds free weekly gatherings for instructors, students, craftspeople, artists and people of all kinds. Featured are demonstrations of traditional and practical skills, a variety of old and modern tools to examine, odd and useful books to look at and more.
Find out more »Introduction to Spoon Carving
This three-hour class introduces the craft of greenwood spoon carving. Students finish the class with their own hand-carved serving spoon. The first part of the class will study safety, knife grips and traditional techniques for carving. For the rest of the class, students transform their spoon blank into a completed spoon. Registration is available at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »Cooking with Winter Vegetables: Taking Winter Storage Vegetables to Winter Feast
Duluth Folk School hosts a winter-themed cooking class. Students will learn how to make a stew, bake bread and make a winter veggie salad. They will also share tips for cooking and storage and be taught techniques that can be used all year. All instruction and ingredients are included. Students will go home with about a quart of stew and a loaf of quick bread. Open to new and experienced cooks 13 and older. Students should bring an apron, a…
Find out more »Ski Coat Rack
Take skis that are castoffs from the Chester Bowl ski program and turn them into creative and unique coat racks or bring personal skis to transform. Practice a few basic skills with a drill, hacksaw, square and level. All ages welcome.
Find out more »Hamantaschen: A Triangular Taste of Tradition
Duluth Folk School celebrates Purim – a Jewish spring holiday – by baking traditional Ashkenazi hamentaschen. Students will learn about the Purim story and roll, fill and bake dozens of cookies. All instruction and ingredients are included. Students will go home with 1 to 2 dozen cookies, which freeze well if needed. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: No previous experience required Best for Age: 7 and older, 15 and under requires an adult to participate Students should bring: An apron…
Find out more »Craft Your Own Wool Sauna Hat
Duluth Folk School hosts “Craft Your Own Wool Sauna Hat” workshop. In this class students will learn each step of the sewing process, from pattern cutting and stitching to adding finishing touches. By the end of the class, students will have a custom-made sauna hat.
Find out more »Planning Your BWCAW Canoe Trip
In this class Ken Gilbertson, who has 50 years of experience leading trips into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), will share planning tips from permits, route selection, food planning, safety and equipment. Students will leave this workshop with the knowledge and skills to be confident in organizing their own trip into the BWCAW. The knowledge and skills learned in this workshop apply to any backcountry trip planning. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is for anyone Best…
Find out more »Winter Sowing Native Wildflowers
Students can learn about native wildflowers, how to grow them using the winter sowing method and complete a hands-on activity during class. All materials are provided, and students will go home with their own mini-greenhouse with wildflowers planted in it. The class will also give an overview of garden-site preparation and proper planting techniques.
Find out more »Making a Penny Whistle Sound Good
In this class, attendees can study techniques for getting good sounds out of a penny whistle. Participants can learn the basics of how the whistle works and get suggestions for a continuing practice. Musicians can bring their own whistle (preferably in the key of D). Depending upon the skill level of students, a fair amount of tune-swapping may occur. Students do not need to know how to read music in order to attend.
Find out more »Creating Mobiles
Students can learn how to make mobiles out of any objects, techniques for bending wire to form the structure of a piece using simple hand tools, what to use for basic parts and where they can be found or bought. Students will also learn about the subtle differences that distinguish a good mobile from a poor one and will build a small desktop mobile to take home. Registration includes all instruction and basic materials.
Find out more »Cajun Finn and the Po’ Boys
Cajun Finn and the Po’ Boys is a six-piece traditional-style New Orleans group composed of local jazz musicians playing classics like "Alexander’s Ragtime Band," "Basin Street Blues," "Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans," "Sweet Georgia Brown," "When the Saints Go Marching In" and more.
Find out more »Demystifying Sewing Machines
Duluth Folk School hosts “Demystifying Sewing Machines,” a hands-on class designed to build confidence and understanding of sewing machines. Students will learn all about typical sewing machines and the mechanics of how a stitch is formed. Students will also be walked through threading their machine and winding bobbins. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: No special skills required. Best for Age: 18 and older Bring: If you have your own sewing machine that you would like to learn about you can…
Find out more »Sharper Living: Reviving Your Household Blades
Duluth Folk School teaches the fine art of edge restoration using simple, effective techniques that work for kitchen knives, pocket knives, scissors and even lawn tools. Students may bring in objects to sharpen. Materials cost includes a small sharpening toolkit that students will use in class and then take home.
Find out more »Mar 2025
Kitchen Beers
During this workshop, students can brew a gallon of beer using malted grains, hops, yeast and water and then bottle it. Students will also have the opportunity to sample a variety of beers throughout the class. Instruction and all materials are provided. Students will go home with 1-2 bottles of beer, the recipe and instructions to make it themselves. 21+.
Find out more »Lightwork Meditation
Experience what it’s like to use meditation to shift your energy. This interactive session offers a fresh perspective on how to be in your place of power. Lightwork meditation is a way to release stress, worry, information overload and unwanted energy. It’s a way to come back to a calm, clear headspace.
Find out more »Wood and Canvas Folding Camp Chair / Gardener’s Stool
In this hands-on workshop, students will learn to cut wood, basic joinery and sew seams. Students will leave the class with their own versatile folding chair.
Find out more »Intro to Mosaics: Create Your Own Mosaic Mirror
This introductory class teaches the basics about the technique of mosaics while each student makes their own mosaic mirror. Each student will receive materials and instruction needed to complete a 10" x 10” mosaic mirror. In this class, the basics of mosaic art are taught, including: - Understanding different materials and tools used in mosaics - Designing mosaic layout - Techniques for arranging and gluing tesserae - Grouting and finishing - Links to online resources and information Instruction and all…
Find out more »Home Roasting 101
Get to know the mechanics of roasting coffee in this class and employ a wide range of tools from woks to whirley-pops to cast-iron skillets to popcorn makers.
Find out more »Introduction to Watercolor
Duluth Folk School hosts an introduction to watercolor painting class. Students will explore fundamental watercolor techniques including paint mixing, water use and brushstrokes. Instruction and all supplies are included. Participants will learn the basics of watercolor, learning different techniques and tools useful for creating watercolor pieces. Participants will go home with several water color paintings that they have made as well as knowledge to keep on creating.
Find out more »Pysanky Egg Decorating
Ukrainian eggs, or pysanky, are created using a wax batik method. In this class students will examine traditional design elements, learn what the colors symbolize and learn some of the stories associated with the eggs. During this class, students will learn to use a kistka (tiny funnel on a stick) to draw with melted wax on egg shells. Once students have drawn the initial design, they dye the egg in a light color, add more wax and dye again in…
Find out more »Intro to Stained Glass Assembly
In this introductory class, students use a prepared glass kit (precut and ground) to learn the basics of how to foil, solder, clean, frame and polish stained glass. Safety, tools and the materials involved will also be covered.
Find out more »Woodworking 101
This four-session beginner’s course will introduce students to the essential tools, materials and techniques to start working with wood. Through hands-on projects and guided instruction, students will build foundational skills that can be expanded on through further practice or future classes. These four sessions take place on March 17, 24, 31 and the last on April 7. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is intended for someone with little to no experience. Best for Ages: 18 and older (12-18…
Find out more »Clothing Repair and Mending Basics
This class is a beginner’s introduction into hand sewing and clothing repair techniques. Students will learn the importance of the “make do and mend” mentality, learn the basic skills needed to sew a button, repair or patch a hole and mend a seam. Registration Includes: Instruction and all materials are included. Participants will leave with their own smiley face patch to help mend a personal garment or sew anything else.
Find out more »Home Roasting 101
Duluth Folk School teaches how to roast coffee. Students will start by getting to know the mechanics of roasting and will employ a wide range of tools from woks to whirley-pops and cast iron skillets to popcorn makers. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is for anyone Best for Ages: 18 and older Students should bring: Students are welcome to bring whatever equipment they may have including, but not limited to: Whirley-Pops, Woks, Cast Iron Skillets, Electric Popcorn Makers,…
Find out more »Folk School Night
Duluth Folk School holds free weekly gatherings for instructors, students, craftspeople, artists and people of all kinds. There are demonstrations of traditional and practical skills, a variety of old and modern tools to examine, odd and useful books to look at and more.
Find out more »Create a Mosaic Mirror
In this introductory class, participants will learn the basics of creating a mosaic. Each student will receive materials and instruction needed to complete a 10 “x 10” mosaic mirror.
Find out more »An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
Speed Friending
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
At this facilitated event, everyone meets everyone one-on-one. The goal is to generate conversations with a variety of people to create more connections and acquaintances. Duluth Folk School's mission is to build community through joyful experiences of handcrafting, art and gathering.
Find out more »Hand Drumming for Beginners
During this class, students can learn the basics of playing hand drums, with a focus on djembe-style drums. Students can learn the different sounds that they can make with a drum and how to use those different sounds to develop basic rhythms.
Find out more »Spring Swing Fling
An evening of vintage swing dance with music by Sugar on the Roof and Hot Club of Duluth. Beginner dance lesson at 4:30 p.m., followed by open dance for all skill levels.
Find out more »Will it Dye? Creating Dye and Watercolors from Nature
This class explores how to extract and create with colors that can be found in natural materials. Using kitchen items, students will be instructed on how to coax out the color and create swatches with wool and cotton, modifying the colors with different agents. Registration Includes: All instruction and materials are included. Students will walk away with at least one reference card with wool and cotton swatches and a watercolor palette. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: No special skills required.…
Find out more »Learn Lightwork Meditation: Level 1
Lightwork Level 1 Meditation is a 7-class journey of self-discovery and personal empowerment. Participants learn the core components of their own energy system and how to recharge them using meditation techniques.
Find out more »Apr 2025
Build a Wooden Garden Tote
In this hands-on class, students will learn how to craft a sturdy and stylish wooden tote. Over the course of the workshop, students will explore essential skills such as measuring, cutting and assembly.
Find out more »Elements of Poetry
This workshop will discuss ways to develop a writing habit and how to find inspiration for new poems. There will be some writing prompts and in-class writing time, but the majority of time will be spent sharing work, receiving and offering feedback and honing skills in editing poems toward completion. At students' request, resources will also be provided regarding where one can send poems for publication.
Find out more »Duluth 101: Duluth’s Climate; Past, Present, and Future
Duluth 101 is a free monthly event series at Duluth Folk School that features presentations about historical, cultural and natural aspects of the community. First up: Duluth’s climate. Dr. Kenneth "Kenny" Blumenfeld, senior climatologist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, speaks about Duluth’s weather history, how Duluth's climate is trending at present and what everyone may expect down the road.
Find out more »Selecting, Using and Maintaining Vintage Handsaws
The purpose of this one-day block of instruction is to introduce students to saw selection, use and maintenance through proven traditional sawyering techniques. Much of the information below has been forgotten when generations of woodworkers following the WWII era gravitated toward power tools. This one-day class will empower the student to know how to select and use handsaws, exercise proper form when sawing, and how to maintain/clean these saws. This class will cover the following topics: - How to select…
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Every Saturday, Duluth Folk School holds free gatherings with rotating handcrafting demonstrations, tool showcases, activities, jams, dances, presentations and more. These drop-in events highlight and connect the region's handcrafting, artistic, musical and environmental communities.
Find out more »Making a Wool Vest (Intermediate Sewing)
This is a three part class with three different meeting dates, in order to start and finish making a wool vest at the Duluth Folk School. Participants start with making their own basic pattern, and will learn basic assembly, how to lay out pockets, how to adjust the fit, and more. Student Requirements: Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: Moderate sewing experience required. Best for Ages: 18 and older Participants should bring: A sewing machine in good working order. The instructor will have…
Find out more »Build a Bird Feeder
Conservation Minnesota and the Duluth Folk School teach a hands-on workshop to build bird feeders. Participants will learn basic woodworking skills, construct their own bird feeder and learn how to feed the birds in northern Minnesota.
Find out more »Transit Talk: The Rise and Fall of Passenger Rail Service in the Midwest
This lecture recounts the history of the rise and fall of passenger rail service in the Midwest. Told by Aaron Bransky, an amateur train historian, the lecture includes anecdotes of his life researching — and sometimes hopping — trains. This lecture is put on by Vibrant Streets Duluth and Duluth Folk School as part of their ongoing Transit Talk series.
Find out more »Nature Journaling and the Art of Observation
This workshop-style class focuses on nature journaling as a way to slow down, observe and open students up to new discoveries. Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is open to anyone who enjoys being outdoors and wants to learn more about the world, including beginners, those who think they can’t draw and long-time journalers who are looking for opportunities to share their nature-journaling experiences with others. Best for Ages: 18 and older Students should bring: Paper that can work outdoors --…
Find out more »Cooking Together: Meal Prep Class
This hands-on class teaches participants how to prepare meals. Instructors from the Duluth Center for Women and Children (DCWC) share their meal-prep knowledge with the community. Participants can learn how to prepare and maximize ingredients to create two distinct meals (curry over rice and chicken dumpling soup), expanding their approach to cooking and knowledge of food sustainability. Student requirements: -- Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: email [email protected] with any allergies or dietary restrictions -- Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: No special skills required.…
Find out more »Demystifying Sewing Machines
Duluth Folk School teaches “Demystifying Sewing Machines,” a hands-on class designed to build confidence and understanding of sewing machines. Students will learn all about typical sewing machines and about the mechanics of how a stitch is formed. The class will also walk students through threading the machine and winding bobbins.
Find out more »Hangin’ With Your Own Hammock
Duluth Folk School teaches how to make a hammock. In this hands-on class, students transform a stack of fabric, cord, and thread into a portable nylon hammock. Using Airwave ripstop nylon, students will learn essential outdoor gear construction techniques such as material selection, sewing methods and sewing machine adjustments. While previous sewing experience is recommended, all enthusiasts eager to dive into crafting their own gear are welcome. Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: This class is for anyone Best for Ages: 18 and…
Find out more »Introduction to Spoon Carving
Duluth Folk School holds an introductory class for the craft of greenwood spoon carving. Students will finish the class with their own hand-carved serving spoon. The class will teach safety, knife grips and traditional techniques for carving before carving the spoons.
Find out more »Group Sound Bath
Matthew Johnson leads a group sound bath, using crystal bowls, gongs, chimes and more to explore the therapeutic benefits of sound and bring attendees to a meditative state. Attendees will be resting motionless on the ground for the duration of the sound bath, so they are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, blanket and pillow.
Find out more »May 2025
From Wool to Bear: Knitting a Stuffed Animal
This class introduces knitters to the world of softies and knitted stuffed animals. Participants will receive instruction on the technical aspects of 3D knitting, toy safety and ensuring softie longevity, as well as support and mentorship while working on the bear. This class will meet 3 times: May 1st, May 8th and May 15th.
Find out more »Upcycled Bookmarks and Journal Collage
Artist and librarian Cami Andersen teaches how to incorporate recycled books, photos and old illustrations to make placeholders for a personal library. Students will learn basic color theory, collage basics and turn old books into new little pieces of art. Students should bring a pair of scissors. All materials will be provided, but some students like to bring their own materials (photos, books, magazines, stickers, blank journal, etc.).
Find out more »Nordic Folk Art Floral Cross-Stitch
Scandinavian enthusiast and artist Cami Andersen teaches about cross-stitch with a folk art twist. Students will have a short introduction to Nordic folk art and history, then stitch their own floral folk art pattern. During this class, students will receive step-by-step instructions and go home with a finished piece to hang in their home. Students will learn how to read a cross-stitch chart to continue the craft on their own after the class–no previous cross stitch or sewing experience necessary.…
Find out more »Cooking with Spring Vegetables: Learn to Prepare, Cook, and Bake with the Treasures of Spring
Duluth Folk School hosts a cooking class. In this class, new and experienced cooks will explore cooking for the season. They’ll go over what’s in that first CSA box of the season and what to expect to find at farmers markets and grocery stores — from rhubarb and ramps, to peashoots and fiddleheads. Students can bring questions about how to select, store, preserve, and cook with produce. Then, students will bake a savory vegetable galette; blend up a bright and…
Find out more »Twist and Shout! Baking Challah and Babka
Duluth Folk School teaches how to make challah and babka. Challah is a central part of every Jewish Shabbat observance and babka is its sweet chocolatey cousin. Participants will get hands-on experience mixing, kneading and braiding their own loaves of babka and challah and learn about the traditions behind them. Skill Level/Prerequisite Skills: No previous experience required Best for Age: 7 and older, 15 and under requires an adult to participate You should bring: An apron
Find out more »Duluth 101: The Greatest Estuary You’ve Never Known
Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve Director Deanna Erickson speaks on the St. Louis River Estuary.
Find out more »Clothing Repair and Mending Basics
A beginner’s introduction into hand sewing and clothing repair techniques. In this class, discussion is about the importance of the “make do and mend” mentality. Participants will learn the basic skills needed to sew a button, repair or patch a hole and mend a seam.
Find out more »Hands on Clay: An Introduction to Pottery Wheel Throwing
In this two-hour class, attendees learn to throw functional pottery on the wheel. Students are taught how to throw cylinder shapes — the foundation for mugs and vases — and different bowl shapes. Students receive individualized assistance in technique from an experienced ceramicist. The class is intended for getting hands on clay to play and experiment, but students' work will not be kept or fired in the kiln.
Find out more »Introduction to Acrylic Landscape Painting
Students learn to create an acrylic landscape painting from an image of their choosing. An instructor leads students through the process in a very deliberate way, explaining the purpose of each layer from start to finish. Each student will get to bring home an extra canvas panel to paint at home. The course is three hours with time to pre-coat, sketch from a grid, paint broad strokes and fine details, finish the canvas with an acrylic varnish and add hanging…
Find out more »Felted Earring/Pendant Workshop
Participants can create a unique set of earrings or a pendant using hand-dyed wool and seed beads with artist and natural-dye enthusiast Ashley Bozman. All materials will be provided.
Find out more »Felted Luminary
Students learn to create a felted lantern, first starting with a 2-D form, and turning it into a 3-D sphere big enough to hold a battery-powered tea light. The final approximate size will be about 4 inches diameter.
Find out more »Art Through the Ages: Paleolithic Art
Art Through the Ages is a multi-week tour through thousands of years of art movements and a creative exploration of common art supplies. Each class consists of a 30-minute lecture where students explore and discuss key concepts, stylistic features and iconic artists from each art movement. Following the lecture, students dive into a creative project inspired by the current period and learn how to use various art mediums. In this session the class learns about Paleolithic Art (30,000 BCE- 10,000…
Find out more »Author Panel: Black Media in Minnesota
Three journalists featured in the new book, Black Media in Minnesota: Tradition, Practice, & Vision participate in an author panel at Duluth Folk School. Panelists include: Henry Banks, the founder of the Clayton, Jackson, and McGhie Memorial; Georgia Fort, an independent journalist and two-time Emmy winner; and Tracey Williams-Dillard, owner and CEO of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder. The facilitator is Zari Baker, a student at Macalester College. This event is hosted by In Black Ink, a publisher dedicated to creating spaces…
Find out more »Demystifying Sewing Machines
Demystifying Sewing Machines is a two-hour hands-on class designed to held understand sewing machines. The course covers typical sewing machines and offers opportunities to learn about the mechanics of how a stitch is formed, walking participants through threading a machine and winding bobbins, and demystify the art of adjusting tension for smooth and consistent results. Attendees can also explore needle types and sizes, learning how to match them to different threads and materials. By the end of this class, participants…
Find out more »Folk School Night: Sustainable Camping & Outdoor Gear Demo
Duluth Folk School has free activities and demos around the theme of Sustainable Camping & Outdoor Gear. This event is drop-in from 5-7 p.m. Campers and noncampers alike are welcome.
Find out more »Introduction to Watercolor
Duluth Folk School hosts Introduction to Watercolor. Students will explore fundamental watercolor techniques including paint mixing, water use and brushstrokes.
Find out more »Nature Journaling and the Art of Observation
This workshop-style class focuses on nature journaling. The class looks at a variety of ideas, tips and strategies for using words and sketches to create a personal journal. Students will go home with a fresh outlook on journaling and nature, information about available resources, and a new entry in their own unique nature journal.
Find out more »Bike Commuting: Challenges, Perspectives and the Pursuit of Happiness
A dozen speakers will give short, informational presentations on bike commuting from a variety of perspectives. The keynote speaker will be Shawna Mullen, who will talk about when and why large organizations like Essentia have an interest in employees commuting by bike. Also speaking will be employees of Duluth Public Library, city councilor Awal, members of Vibrant Streets Duluth, representatives of BikeMN and others. They'll cover topics ranging from internal bike culture, ebikes and future bike corridors in Duluth.
Find out more »Invasive Color: Using Invasive Species as Natural Dyes
This workshop explores several invasive plants which can be used as natural dyes. Students will learn plant identification, a bit of natural history, methods to prevent spread of invasive species and how to use these otherwise undesirable species to create beautiful colors. Students will go home with a minimum of eight different dyed skeins, approximately 25 yards each. The instructor will provide yarn and all dye materials. Students should bring a plastic bag for samples.
Find out more »Folk School Night: Plants and Invasive Species
Instructor Hornstein will be showing dyes made from invasive plants and instructor Devan will be demonstrating how to sharpen scythes. There will be guests from Duluth CISMA (Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area) and Shoreview Natives, as well as information about seeds and cuttings and pollinators. A "Coffee & Climate" display will also be up, in association with Almanac Coffee.
Find out more »Jun 2025
Introduction to Watercolor
In this class students explore fundamental watercolor techniques including paint mixing, water use and brushstrokes. This class provides the building blocks of watercolor.
Find out more »Embroidered Needle Case
In this class, students learn the basics of embroidery including different materials to use and how they interact, learn 10 different stitches and create a needle case (a traditional holder for embroidery needles).
Find out more »Mountain Biking for Mature Riders
This four-session mountain biking class is designed specifically for mature audiences looking to enhance their comfort and confidence on the trails. The sessions are aimed towards novices, or those seeking to refine their skills. The course covers topics such as equipment selection and setup, balance, body positioning and cadence. Students can learn how to navigate uphills and downhills safely, master cornering, separate body and bike movements, and gain control over their bike. Additionally, facilitators teach bikers how to hop over…
Find out more »Sharpening for Yard and Garden Tools
In this hands-on class, participants learn how to sharpen and maintain a variety of common garden and yard tools, including shovels, hoes, pruners, loppers, shears, axes, lawnmowers and more. The class covers how to assess blade condition, choose the right sharpening tools (files, stones, grinders), and restore cutting edges safely and effectively. Students also learn basic maintenance tips to extend the life of tools and keep them working their best.
Find out more »Art Through The Ages – Classical Antiquity in Greece
Art Through the Ages is a multi-week tour through thousands of years of art movements and a creative exploration of common art supplies. Each class consists of a 30-minute lecture where students explore and discuss key concepts, stylistic features and iconic artists from each art movement. Following the lecture, students dive into a creative project inspired by the current period and learn how to use various art mediums. In this session the class learns about Classical Antiquity in Greece (700…
Find out more »Aurora Photography 101
In this class, students learn everything about aurora photography, including how to use full-frame camera, setup, initial settings and understanding the data on SpaceWeatherLive. If time permits, beginning editing and Lightroom will be covered.
Find out more »Felted Flowers
Learn the art of wet felting and needle felting with raw wool fibers. In this class, participants create a 2D felted piece of artwork that will measure about 10″ x 10″ when finished. All experience levels are welcome.
Find out more »Hands on Clay – An Introduction to Pottery Wheel Throwing
In this class students will learn to successfully throw functional pottery on the wheel. Students will learn how to throw cylinder shapes (the foundation for mugs and vases) and different bowl shapes. Students will receive individualized assistance in technique from an experienced ceramicist. Work will not be kept or fired in the kiln.
Find out more »Art Through The Ages: High Italian Renaissance
Art Through the Ages is a multi-week tour through thousands of years of art movements and a creative exploration of common art supplies. Each class consists of a 30-minute lecture where students explore and discuss key concepts, stylistic features and iconic artists from each art movement. Following the lecture, students dive into a creative project inspired by the current period and learn how to use various art mediums. In this session the class learns about High Italian Renaissance (1450-1520) and…
Find out more »Wild Mushrooms 101
During this class, students learn about foraging and identifying wild mushrooms. Discussions will cover some basic information about mushrooms, steps for identifying mushrooms, steps for foraging mushrooms, common edible mushrooms, common toxic mushrooms, recommended resources and more. *This class takes place in a classroom but you will leave with the skills and knowledge to find and identify mushrooms in the wild.
Find out more »An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
Speed Friending
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
At this facilitated event, everyone meets everyone one-on-one. The goal is to generate conversations with a variety of people to create more connections and acquaintances. Duluth Folk School's mission is to build community through joyful experiences of handcrafting, art and gathering.
Find out more »Native Orchids of the Arrowhead Region
There are 35 species of orchids in the Minnesota Arrowhead region, and they come in a wide variety of sizes, colors, shapes and seasonal blooms. This event is an opportunity to gain a better understanding and appreciation of these plants. This is a paired classroom and field-trip event. The trip may involve driving and hiking short distances over uneven ground. Register at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »Value Your Voice: Musical Mastery Through Mantra, Mindfulness and Movement
In the practice of yoga, sung mantra is one of the earliest and central components of the practice. In this workshop, attendees learn "voice science strategies" to support foundational mantras: So Hum, Om, AUM, Om shanti, shanti. The workshop closes with singing mantras in community and voluntarily as soloists to culminate the workshop learning. Register at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »Slow Friending: Conversations and Connection
Duluth Folk School and a small cohort of like-minded people gather for one-on-one conversations. “Slow Friending” is a calmer and slightly slower variation of “Speed Friending” events. Unlike Speed Friending, this event requires preregistration and has a capped attendee limit. It also requires a donation to support Duluth Folk School.
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Every Saturday, Duluth Folk School holds free gatherings with rotating handcrafting demonstrations, tool showcases, activities, jams, dances, presentations and more. These drop-in events highlight and connect the region's handcrafting, artistic, musical and environmental communities.
Find out more »Introduction to Watercolor
Duluth Folk School hosts an introduction to watercolor class. This class is perfect for individuals looking to try watercolors. Students explore fundamental watercolor techniques including paint mixing, water use and brushstrokes. This class provides the building blocks of watercolor.
Find out more »Nature Journaling and the Art of Observation
In this three-hour workshop-style class, attendees are guided in developing a practice of nature journaling, using words and sketches to record observations, reflections and questions about nature. The class begins in the Folk School with time for attendees to share their interests, goals and ideas for what to include in a nature journal. The group then moves outdoors to make observations and record them in their journals. Attendees finish with time together to share observations, questions and resources. If weather…
Find out more »An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
Speed Friending
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Third of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Fourth of the month, repeating until Dec 26, 2025
At this facilitated event, everyone meets everyone one-on-one. The goal is to generate conversations with a variety of people to create more connections and acquaintances. Duluth Folk School's mission is to build community through joyful experiences of handcrafting, art and gathering.
Find out more »Art Through The Ages – French Rococo
Art Through the Ages is a multi-week tour through thousands of years of art movements and a creative exploration of common art supplies. Each class consists of a 30-minute lecture where students explore and discuss key concepts, stylistic features and iconic artists from each art movement. Following the lecture, students dive into a creative project inspired by the current period and learn how to use various art mediums. In this session the class learns about French Rococo (1699-1780) and the…
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Every Saturday, Duluth Folk School holds free gatherings with rotating handcrafting demonstrations, tool showcases, activities, jams, dances, presentations and more. These drop-in events highlight and connect the region's handcrafting, artistic, musical and environmental communities.
Find out more »Sign Carving
This class is an introduction to carving signs in wood with hand tools. Students learn the tools and techniques for incised and bas-relief carving, and the safety precautions to bear in mind. Students learn how to read wood grain and carve it. This is a three day class with the first session being held on June 30. Day two will be on July 7 and the last day will be July 14.
Find out more »Jul 2025
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Every Saturday, Duluth Folk School holds free gatherings with rotating handcrafting demonstrations, tool showcases, activities, jams, dances, presentations and more. These drop-in events highlight and connect the region's handcrafting, artistic, musical and environmental communities.
Find out more »Demystifying Sewing Machines
Demystifying Sewing Machines is a two-hour hands-on class designed to held understand sewing machines. The course covers typical sewing machines and offers opportunities to learn about the mechanics of how a stitch is formed, walking participants through threading a machine and winding bobbins, and demystify the art of adjusting tension for smooth and consistent results. Attendees can also explore needle types and sizes, learning how to match them to different threads and materials. By the end of this class, participants…
Find out more »Selecting, Using and Maintaining Vintage Handsaws
Students learn to select and use handsaws, exercise proper form when sawing and how to maintain/clean saws at Duluth Folk School.
Find out more »An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Second of the month, repeating until Dec 31, 2025
Writers’ Open Mic
An event every month that begins at 5:30 pm on day Second of the month, repeating until Dec 31, 2025
Poets, creative writers and expressive people of all kinds are welcome to share their work at Duluth Folk School's Writers' Open Mic. Participants sign up for a five-minute slot.
Find out more »Art Through The Age: Impressionism and Fauvism
Art Through the Ages is a multi-week tour through thousands of years of art movements and a creative exploration of common art supplies. Each class consists of a 30-minute lecture where students explore and discuss key concepts, stylistic features and iconic artists from each art movement. Following the lecture, students dive into a creative project inspired by the current period and learn how to use various art mediums. In this session students learn about Impressionism (1865-1885) and Fauvism (1900-1935) and…
Find out more »The Giving Forest
This class explores the deep connections between the natural world and the food humans eat. Participants can reflect on the web of life and how profound insights can come from observing nature during this trip through the woods. A light vegetarian charcuterie lunch is included (and can be made gluten-free or cow-milk-free on request). Bringing a water bottle is encouraged. Register at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »Fix-it Clinic
Whether it’s cracked, torn, stained, missing a piece or just not working properly, broken things can be made good as new with the right skills and tools. WLSSD has partnered with Duluth Folk School and Duluth Makerspace to host regular events where people can learn how to fix their stuff. Volunteers specialize in a variety of repair skills, including electronics and small appliances, woodworking and furniture, watches and jewelry, clothing and upholstery, sports and outdoor gear, ceramics, artwork and more.…
Find out more »An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Folk School Night
An event every week that begins at 5:00 pm on Saturday, repeating until Dec 27, 2025
Every Saturday, Duluth Folk School holds free gatherings with rotating handcrafting demonstrations, tool showcases, activities, jams, dances, presentations and more. These drop-in events highlight and connect the region's handcrafting, artistic, musical and environmental communities.
Find out more »Introduction to Foraging (Mobility Friendly)
In this beginner-friendly foraging class students learn the foundational skills needed to safely identify common edible plants and mushrooms in their local environment. Through hands-on exploration, they’ll discover how to observe key features, use field guides and understand seasonal clues. This session takes place on a paved trail suitable for mobility devices and those who prefer a flat path and slower pace. This is usually a more plant based class although the occasional mushroom is found. All paces are welcome.…
Find out more »Floral Magic Design
In this introduction to floral design class, students work with locally grown flowers to learn about the proper processing of stems and core elements to design, with the goal of developing the skills to create full and well-balanced arrangements. Students learn about the intricacies of each flower variety to better understand their needs as a cut flower, as well as the inspiring elements they can bring to your designs. By the end of class, students will have a better understanding…
Find out more »Chainsaw Bar & Chain Maintenance
Keep your chainsaw in top cutting shape with this hands-on class focused on essential maintenance skills. Participants will learn how to keep a saw cutting properly and safely. Learn how to sharpen a chainsaw chain, care for and dress the bar and understand the wear patterns that can affect performance and safety on both gas and electric chainsaws. This class covers the cutting end of the saw only. Register at duluthfolkschool.com.
Find out more »Kitchen Beers
Students can learn to brew an Elderflower Pale Ale using malted grains, hops, yeast and water and then bottle it.
Find out more »
