Stop Scrolling and Start Building

Community Education Courses That Teach Real Skills

Have you ever stopped to consider how much time you spend looking at a screen each day? If you’re an average American, that number is nearly seven hours a day. Instead of pouring those hours into a bottomless scrolling bucket, why not invest them in learning something new?

There are so many reasons to disconnect from the virtual world and plug into your own potential to design and craft real-world objects. For example, think of holding a beautifully built wooden chest and admiring its craftsmanship. Now imagine that this chest is something you built with your own hands. Did you feel an immediate elevation in your mood? One researcher cleverly coined a term to describe the practice of a learned skill that brings us happiness, “behaviorceuticals,” an apt play on “pharmaceuticals.”

We weren’t built to be idle. For example, consider the design and function of human hands. If they were intended just for scrolling, we wouldn’t need instruments capable of such fine movement and manipulation. Our hands can be trained to do everything from fashioning binding for a cherished book to building custom cabinets, even crafting delicate jewelry pieces. And studies have shown that the brain is wired to learn and grow. Even rats, when given the opportunity, will choose to use a learned skill to earn a reward over a passive method.

And there are more good reasons for developing our learned skills. Once we engage and challenge our brains in one area, we are more open to exploring new environments and can cope with challenges more effectively. This is because of the ability of our brain to grow and develop greater complexity and depth, so-called neuroplasticity. 

When we channel our efforts into creating things, we not only build confidence and capability, we actually reduce stress and bring more calm and focus into our lives. We also tap into a larger community of like-minded creators. Imagine working in a creative space that will not only build skill, but feed both your mind and soul.

Perhaps all these benefits are why our community education courses are so popular. Consider these areas for a start. Which ignites your interest?

Book Arts – If you cherish books and appreciate their tactile nature, learn more about the ancient art of bookbinding, paper conservation, and creating beautiful papers and covers. Examples of course topics include a bookbinding overview, paper conservation, and linoleum block printing. 

Carpentry – Whether you want to learn how to make repairs in your own home or step into a potential new career path, we have courses for every level and interest. Example courses include introduction to cabinets, framing, and more.

Woodworking – From the art of dovetailing to furniture making to a comprehensive introduction to woodworking, we have woodworking courses to get you started or further develop your skills. Maybe that will be an introduction to machine woodworking, bowl turning techniques, picture frames, or one of our furniture-focused topics.

Jewelry Making – For someone who really appreciates the intricacy and art of wearable art, our jewelry workshops will give you all the skills you’ll need to work with a wide variety of materials and styles. You may want to begin with our jewelry making basics, or explore more specialized techniques such as copper enameling, soldering, or setting stones.

Are you ready to stop scrolling and start learning? Join us in an upcoming workshop!