Workshops

Tatting

The Museum will host a series of tatting workshops led by Louisiana artist, Christy Benoit Castille. Tatting is a timeless handwork which dates back to the 1700’s and can be found throughout Europe. Tatting is used with a double thread to create double knots. Two classes will be taught this spring and one is not a prerequisite for the other. Participants may sign up for either or both classes. Participants in either class should not have dexterity (arthritis or joint) problems with their fingers. Space is limited, and advanced registration is required by contacting the West Baton Rouge Museum

Christy Benoit Castille is a member of many craft guilds such as Tatters Across Time, the Louisiana Crafts Guild, and the International Organization of Lace. She first became interested in tatting after seeing her great grandmother’s tatting shuttle and handwork. It has been her mission ever since not only to learn the craft but also to pass on the skill set and beautiful history of this traditional art form.

Beginner Shuttle Tatting

Date: April 11th, 2023
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: $30

In this class, participants will be using their fingers similar to knitting or crochet and will focus on mastering the double stitch.

Needle Tatting

Date: April 18th, 2023
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: $30

In this class, learn how to read written and diagram patterns, add in thread, and tatt simple edging that can be used on heirloom clothing.

Basic Woodworking

The Museum is pleased to work with skilled artisan, Terry Landry, to present a series of wood working workshops inside the museum’s barn. Advanced, paid reservations are required due to class size limits. To register, please call the Museum.

Build a Footstool

Dates: April 15th, 2023 and April 22nd, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: $150
Location: Museum Barn

Basic Woodworking: Build a Foot Stool is a two part workshop that will be held on April 15th, 2023 and April 22st, 2023 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Each participant in the class will build their own little four legged foot stool using only hand tools. Students will use saws, chisels, square, compass, brace, hammer and smooth plane. Cost of materials is included in the fee but students are required to bring their own tape rule. This class is limited to a maximum of four participants.

Build a Tool Tote

Dates: May 13th, 2023 and May 20th, 2023
Time: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Cost: $150
Location: Museum Barn

Basic Woodworking: Build a Tool Tote is a two part session that will be held Saturday, May 13th, 2023 and May 20th, 2023 from 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Participants in this class will each build their own tool tote using saws, chisels, brace, marking gauge and hand planes. You will learn to mark and cut dovetails and dados to build the tote. The includes cost of materials. Although they are provided, those who have their own chisels and dovetails saw may wish to bring those as well. This class is limited to a maximum of four participants.

Blacksmithing

Blacksmithing Basics

Date: Scheduled Upon Request
Time:Scheduled Upon Request
Cost: $200
Location: Museum Barn

The West Baton Rouge Museum is home to a thriving Blacksmith Apprenticeship program. Classes are taught by Artist in Residence and professional blacksmith, Gary Hart and other special guests. The tuition for this course is $200 which includes supplies, a copy of the classic blacksmithing book The Art of Blacksmithing by Alex Bealer, and completed projects. Blacksmithing basics and blacksmithing ornamental skills will be taught. Participants will leave with basic blacksmithing knowledge and skill that can be built upon. Class sizes will be limited and will be offered on weekdays or weekends to accommodate participants’ schedules. Upon completion of the program, participants interested in continuing to hone their craft will be eligible to conduct demonstrations at the West Baton Rouge Museum by becoming blacksmithing volunteers.

Forging On

Date: Scheduled Upon Request
Time:Scheduled Upon Request
Cost: To Be Determined
Location: Museum Barn

The West Baton Rouge Museum will soon be adding a series of sessions covering more specialized blacksmithing techniques. This advanced program is designed for those who have completed Blacksmithing Basics and wish to build upon their skills. Fees will apply.