Community Education - Rochester, Minnesota

Come to historic Tunnel Mill for the annual beginning blacksmith classes. Basic blacksmith techniques will be taught: heating, drawing out materials, upsetting, bending, and twisting techniques in steel material. Students will start by making fire tending-tools and move on to spend time on special projects as desired. Luke Venhuizen is our instructor this year. He is excited to get together at the mill to tend the fire and shape the metal. Questions contact Carol Adams at 507-289-4189. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com A $150.00 supply fee will be collected at class to cover all 3 weeks of projects. Dress for safety; please bring ear and eye protection and gloves.

Join us at Tunnel Mill for a hands-on exploration of twist techniques in the blacksmithing world! Learn how to create striking patterns like Yin-Yang, dragon scale, pineapple, and DNA twists—and discover how these techniques can add beauty and character to your work. With a little guidance and practice, you’ll soon see that your only limit is your imagination. $150 Supply Fee due to Tunnel Mills at the time of first class. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

Join Julie as she shows you how, you too, can learn to paint like Bob Ross. This is a painting technique that anyone can do, even if you have never painted a day in your life. During class, Julie will explain and show you how to prep the canvas, load your brushes, and the technique to use to get your desired effect. Then, you will have time to work on your painting with instructor assistance. This painting technique can be very therapeutic and a great confidence builder. Who knows, you may find a talent that you never knew you had! Ages 14 and up. Class fee includes all supplies. Sign up for the date/picture you would like, a different painting will be done on each date. Jan 24 #341 Feb 21 #347 Mar 21 #350 Apr 11 and Apr 17 #343 May 15 #338 June 6 #321 July 10 #316

Discover the art of metalworking in this creative class where participants will design, texture, and assemble their own decorative wind chime using metal elements. Learn to hammer and file metal pieces, then combine them with optional beads or found materials to create a one-of-a-kind piece that sings in the breeze. This hands-on class introduces basic metalworking techniques using simple tools. Participants will leave with a finished wind chime that adds personality and sound to any porch, patio, or indoor space. All materials are provided, and tools will be available for use. *Basic wire wrapping experience required. Prior to attending this session, consider taking one of the wire wrapping classes Amrita offers.

Discover the art of relief carving in this relaxed, hands-on class. You’ll have access to all the tools you need as you learn the basics of carving with step-by-step guidance from the instructor. Practice a variety of cutting techniques on the back of your board, then create your own 10" x 12" work of art on the front. Bring a sketch you’d like to carve, or choose from designs provided in class. With Kevin’s approachable teaching style and years of experience, you’ll find that learning to carve is both easy and fun! $95 Supply Fee due to Tunnel Mill at the time of first class. www.tunnelmillcrafts.com

Come and learn to make and grind your own knife from basic materials. Start with a piece of steel and some wood—add a bit of effort and guidance—and a knife will take shape. Open to all skill levels. Be prepared to come to work and be challenged. Basic blacksmithing skills preferred. $200 class fee to be collected at time of class by Tunnel Mill Crafts; includes instructor fees and a light lunch. Cash or Check only

In this relaxing, hands-on art workshop, we will explore the therapeutic power of mandalas as a tool for both mindfulness and self-expression. You will use simple tools - paper, a straight edge, a compass, and a pen - to draw simple patterns that will form a meditative mandala. This will be a gentle, non-judgmental space to focus on the process, let go of perfection, and tap into your natural creative flow. No prior art or meditation experience is necessary—just bring curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to explore your creativity.

Join Julie, a Certified Donna Dewberry One Stroke Instructor, as she guides you step-by-step through the process of creating your very own special painting. She will explain how to prep your canvas, load your brushes, and the brush strokes needed to complete each step. Then, you will have time to work on your painting as she comes around to help and answer any questions you may have. This is an acrylic painting technique that anyone can do if you are willing to step out of your comfort zone and just give it a try. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are included. Ages 14 and up. Register for your preferred date—each class will feature a different painting. Jan 27 #A58 Feb 24 #A57 Mar 10 #A56 Apr 7 #A59 May 5 #A60 June 9 #A62 July 7 #A37 NOTE: The July 14 class has been rescheduled to July 7.

Escape to the countryside for three relaxing days at Tunnel Mill! Whether you’re quilting, sewing, or working on another creative project, this retreat is the perfect time to focus on what you love. Bring your sewing machine, quilting supplies, and enjoy uninterrupted time in a spacious sewing room equipped with individual tables, electricity, great lighting, shared irons, and ironing boards. The retreat runs Friday, June 5 at 4 PM through Sunday, June 7 at 4 PM. Cost payable to Tunnel Mill: $175 Your weekend includes 5 delicious meals, snacks and light beverages, dorm-style lodging in the historic mill, and a welcoming, worry-free environment to sew, create, and connect. BYOB if you'd like. For a unique lodging experience, three covered wagons and one individual cabin are available for an additional fee - call 507-289-4189 to reserve.