Saturday, August 17, 2024
9am-4pm
On-Site

Punch needle is a traditional craft that’s been around since the 15th century. Initially known as the ‘punch stitch’ was primarily used for adorning religious garments. It was also a craft used by men during lengthy sea voyages who would create punched rugs to pass the time between ports.

The Shakers have had sheep on their farm for decades and currently have a flock of over 65!  Imagine your hands immersed in colorful Shaker wool as you create your own punch needle trivet or hot plate. You’ll be using 2-ply Shaker yarn which has been spun from virgin wool from the sheep on our farm which include Romney, Shropshire, Icelandic, North Country Cheviot and Finnsheep breeds.

Instructor, artist and punch needle enthusiast, Bonnie Faulkner, will teach you the basics. Threading the Lavor punch needle, a hollow, pencil-shaped needle used to push yarn through fabric, creating tufted loops that result in an embroidered-like surface will be a breeze.

This is a perfect workshop for a beginner or those who have tried punch needle and would like a bit more guidance on technique. All materials and design options will be provided. If you have any special 2-ply wool from home you’d like to use, please bring it!

Punch needle is a wonderful craft to digitally disconnect, switch off, and relax from a busy and stressful life.

Class size: 10

Did you know that current members of The Friends of the Shakers receive $5 off each workshop? Sign up or renew today for your discount!

Bonnie is graciously donating all money from this workshop as a fundraiser for our Herb House Cultural Center project.  Her donation, along with any that you’d like to add at checkout, will be matched 25% by a Challenge Grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. This project, in part, will give Shaker Village expanded space for traditional arts workshops and communal events as well as, obviously, an expanded Herb House facility that will allow for us to produce, dry, and process more herbs in the traditional Shaker method.  We are beyond excited for this project and thank you for your support!