Yesterday, I asked you, “What new craft or technique do you want to learn this summer?”

Earlier this week, I learned about TeachStreet from Sara over at girlscantell.

Sara explained the idea behind TeachStreet:

Basically, TeachStreet is all about learning something new, or sharing your skills and talents in your areas of expertise. So far, the site’s been launched in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Denver, recently in NYC, and very, very shortly in Philadelphia and Chicago. In a nutshell, TeachStreet is a really great opportunity for people to expand their businesses a little, offering either one-on-one or small group classes in the areas of craft they work in, or even in related things like small business development or online marketing/social networking for micro-business.

To me, this is just another way the world wide web is helping us better stay in touch with our local communities. I would certainly encourage you to check out the site and consider adding teaching to your craft business. TeachStreet also provides a great way to search for teachers for the things you want to learn.

Speaking of learning new things, you may remember that my new HiP friend, Alex McCarty, is opening an indie boutique in West Reading late this summer. Well, we have worked out an arrangement whereby I’ll be managing her classes and events.

So, I’m looking for artists and crafters who would be interested in teaching classes. I think we’re open to pretty much anything – so think about what you’d be able to teach and drop me an email. We can discuss the details and work out a plan that works for all of us!

a message from one of our sponsors

HiP and the PA Guild of Craftsmen have a great relationship! I’m so excited to bring you this announcement of their spring workshops and seminars. You can learn from master craftsmen (and women), improve your business, and meet other artisans.

Have you ever looked into Guild membership? Why not now? The Guild is looking for the next generation of fine craftspeople and have a wide variety of resources to help you achieve the career in arts & crafts that you’ve dreamed of.

I’m also thrilled to note that one of the spring workshops is being taught by…me! Learn the basics of social media marketing from yours truly at the Goggleworks in Reading.

Spring Workshops with the Pennsylvania Guild – by Nick Mohler
Lancaster, Reading, Pottstown

The Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen’s slate of workshops in May and June are geared towards craft enthusiasts, emerging artists and established craftsmen. Registration is open to everyone through the Guild’s website at or via phone at 717-431-8706. [Read more →]

Guess I was feeling a little girlish this week! Read on below for an exciting Central PA opportunity! It seems those are hard to come by sometimes… And info on a beading class/bead trunk show in Bucks County!

{1} Treasure Bowl by Shanineal

{2} E is for Elephant Screen Print by Strawberryluna

{3} Long Ballerina Necklace by Stephanie Gibson

{4} On the Globe Collage by BucksCountyFrames

[Read more →]

As I’m writing this, it’s beginning to look like a PA Super Bowl could be a distinct possibility! But whether you’re an Eagles fan or a Steelers fan, there are lots of opportunities to learn a new craft or perfect an old one around the state.

My new friends at the Pittsburgh Craft Collective have just announced their newest round of classes. Check out classes for learning to knit, goal-setting for your business, spinning yarn, and bookbinding.

In my hometown of Reading, the Goggleworks has put out their Winter class schedule, as well. The Goggleworks is part of the revitalization of downtown Reading. Housed in an old goggle factory, it is home to studios for fine artists, glass blowers, fiber artists, and many more. The first floor holds a gallery, art theater, gift shop, and cafe. If you’re ever in the area, it is a must see!

In the Lancaster area, check out the PA Guild of Craftsmen’s 2009 workshops. Would you like to learn more about photographing your work? There’s an intriguing class called Photography for Artists.

Are you hosting a class you’d like to promote? Please leave a comment – I’m sure everyone would appreciate the help!

Email UPDATE: It appears that my email (tara AT handmadeinpa DOT net) is now working again. If you’ve tried to email me in the past three days, please resend!

I’m still looking for your suggestions for a Valentine’s Day Gift Guide! Please email me your selections (your own or your favorite PA artisan’s) by Thursday, January 15th.