Upcoming Classes and Workshops
2026
Intro to Letterpress Printing
Saturday, October 10th from 10:00am-5:00pm
In this introductory workshop, students will learn the basics of letterpress printing using the same methods and techniques that were used when The Roycroft published pamphlets and books.
Paper Marbling for Adults
Saturday, October 17th from 10:00am-1:00pm
In this class students will learn a brief history of paper marbling, its importance in the print arts, and examples of how it can be used. The bulk of the class will be spent with students marbling their own paper. This art form is an excellent entry point for anyone who holds the misguided belief that they can’t “do art” or that they’re not an artist and is looking to connect with the creative that lives in all of us. This class is also for those who have an interest in the book and print arts and want to dip their toe into its very deep pool.
Linocut Printing
Saturday, October 17th from 10:00am-5:00pm
A linocut is a printmaking technique, a variant of woodcut in which a sheet of linoleum is used for a relief surface. A design is cut into the linoleum surface with a sharp knife, V-shaped chisel or gouge. The raised areas are then inked and pressed on paper to create a print. In this class, students will learn a brief history of linocut, how it’s still very much in use today by print artists and see examples of linocuts and prints. design or choose from a design, carve, and print their own linocut. Students should bring a 4” x 6” design that will take about 3 hours to carve or use one of the available templates.
Fall Figure Drawing – All Sessions
Multiple Dates from 11:00am-2:00pm
Enjoy open figure drawing inspired by a live model, consisting of both clothed and nude figures. Explore the techniques and approaches of your choice in an open atmosphere of fellow artists. This is a public, non-instructional figure/life drawing session for those interested in drawing from a live model.
Sign-up for all 4 sessions and save!
Fall Figure Drawing – Session 1
Saturday, October 17th from 11:00am-2:00pm
Enjoy open figure drawing inspired by a live model, consisting of both clothed and nude figures. Explore the techniques and approaches of your choice in an open atmosphere of fellow artists. This is a public, non-instructional figure/life drawing session for those interested in drawing from a live model.
Model Currently Scheduled – Female, Caucasian nude (Models subject to change)
Oil Painting for Beginners
Friday, October 23rd from 11:00am-1:00pm
A simple, no fuss beginner’s primer in the basics of working with oil painting. Students will get acquainted with the materials, process of handling and basic methods, removing the intimidation of working with the medium. During the class, students will learn to manipulate and use oils to work on a first basic “lean” layer colorfield by creating a simple gradient color scape, allowing students to focus on color mixing, palette work and working with solvents without worrying about brush technique.
Fall Figure Drawing – Session 2
Saturday, November 7th from 11:00am-2:00pm
Enjoy open figure drawing inspired by a live model, consisting of both clothed and nude figures. Explore the techniques and approaches of your choice in an open atmosphere of fellow artists. This is a public, non-instructional figure/life drawing session for those interested in drawing from a live model.
Model Currently Scheduled – Female, African-American nude (Models subject to change)
Learn to Weave
Thursday, November 12th & 19th from 6:00pm-9:00pm
A two-part weaving series for those who want to dig in – Learn to weave and spend this winter becoming a weaver. In the first class, students will learn the basic building blocks of weaving, including warping, materials, tools and basic techniques and go home with homework on their very own Lost Pond Looms frame loom to prepare them for the final class in which they’ll work with roving, raw and dyed locks and advanced techniques to create a one-of-a-kind wall hanging.
Needle Felting on the Flat: Basics on Painting with Wool for Beginners
Friday, November 13th from 11:00am-1:00pm
In this hands-on course, you will acquire the foundational skills and expert techniques needed to create 2-dimensional artworks using wool and needle felting. Students will learn essential needle felting techniques that can be adjusted and scaled to future projects, from abstract, figurative or landscape, starting with how to select the best tools and materials for successful results.
Arabic Calligraphy & Geometric Patterns
Saturday, November 14th from 1:00pm-3:00pm
Explore the elegance of Arabic calligraphy and the harmony of Islamic geometric design in this engaging, hands-on workshop. Inspired by centuries of artistic tradition, participants will discover how Arabic script and geometric patterns come together to create timeless works of art.
Fall Figure Drawing – Session 3
Saturday, November 21st from 11:00am-2:00pm
Enjoy open figure drawing inspired by a live model, consisting of both clothed and nude figures. Explore the techniques and approaches of your choice in an open atmosphere of fellow artists. This is a public, non-instructional figure/life drawing session for those interested in drawing from a live model.
Model Currently Scheduled – Female, Clothed (Models subject to change)
Fall Figure Drawing – Session 4
Sunday, December 13th from 11:00am-2:00pm
Enjoy open figure drawing inspired by a live model, consisting of both clothed and nude figures. Explore the techniques and approaches of your choice in an open atmosphere of fellow artists. This is a public, non-instructional figure/life drawing session for those interested in drawing from a live model.
2027
The Roycroft Campus’ programs are made possible by the County of Erie and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
Funding is also made possible through Arts Services Inc.’s Creative Impact Fund program thanks to a New York State Senate Initiative supported by the NYS Legislature and the Office of the Governor, and administered by the New York State Council on the Arts.
ROYCROFT CAMPUS ARTISAN CLASSES AND EVENT POLICY
GENERAL CLASS INFORMATION
- Registration is required for all classes and workshops held on the Roycroft Campus.
- To assure a safe and rewarding experience, with quality one-on-one time with the artisan instructor, all class sizes are limited.
- If a class is full, you can ask to be placed on a waiting list in case of any cancellation or if a similar course is added to the schedule in the future.
- Class Tuition + Supply Fee is required for each workshop, unless specifically stated in the course description where a supply list is offered for students to provide their own materials.
- Supply Fees cover all materials and consumables used to create the course project(s). In many cases, additional tools will be provided by and remain the property of the instructor.
- All classes are held on the National Historic Landmark Roycroft Campus located at 21 South Grove Street, East Aurora, NY 14052, unless specifically stated in the course description.
- Most classes are dealing materials that can be messy, please dress accordingly.
- The class area opens 10 minutes before the class is scheduled to begin.
- In the case of a day-long workshop meals are usually not provided. You can bring your own food or drinks. Please check your course description.
- An email will be sent out to those who enrolled a few days prior to the class as a reminder and with information on where to meet.
- Additional classes, workshops and events are frequently added to the schedule. Class pricing and information are also subject to change. Please call the Campus to verify information for a class (716 655-0261).
CLASS SAFETY INFORMATION
- Masks are not required to attend a class, but if you would feel more comfortable wearing one it is completely acceptable.
- Any person experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, has tested positive for COVID-19, or had close contact with someone who has had symptoms or tested positive for COVID-19 within 10 days of their visit should stay home. We will offer full refunds for any pre-paid tour/museum/class registrations.
Please understand that class dates and guidelines are subject to change based on the guidance we receive from NYS. We will be sure to communicate any changes to you if and when they occur.