For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will be shared with registrants a week before the session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

This week, Meara, a coastal hydrologist, will share how satellites tell us about the water quality in our estuaries!

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up! This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a soft little pumpkin, gourd or jack-o’-lantern using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. These are perfect for autumnal or Halloween decor. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with at least one pumpkin, gourd or jack-o'-lantern to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own.

Beginners and returning students welcome!

ages 12 and up

$35

Sign up here!

Let's make a cryptid! Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a cute and spooky little Mothman using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with a mini Mothman to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own. Beginners and returning students welcome!

ages 12 and up

$40

Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will be shared with registrants a week before the session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

This week, Dan, an ecohydrologist, will tell you about beaver's role in restoring streams here in Charlottesville.

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up! This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

Come learn how to use a punch needle and make a cool craft in a hoop with Ari (they/them). Punch needling is a relatively quick, easy and forgiving fiber art used for decoration and rugmaking, allowing you to make pictures and patterns using yarn. There’s no knot tying or counting necessary! It’s great!

In class we’ll get a good start on a project that you can take with you and finish at home. You’ll leave with a punch needle and hoop to keep.

This class is intended for people who are brand new to punch needling. It requires moderate hand strength, as well as attention and coordination, as we will be using a sharp tool.

ages 14 and up

$40

Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will be shared with registrants a week before the session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

This week, Mirella, a micrometeorologist, will talk about the impacts of infrastructure on permafrost in the Arctic village of Utqiaġvik, Alaska.

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up! This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

Join Ari (they/them) to learn how to make a soft little possum figure using a specialized notched needle to sculpt dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with a possum to keep or give as a gift, as well as a felting mat and needle of your own.

Beginning and returning students welcome!

Ages 12 and up

$40

Sign up here!

Join Ari (they/them) for a beginner-level felting class. Learn how to make soft and colorful mushroom decorations using a specialized barbed needle to sculpt beautiful dyed wool. You’ll learn to create three-dimensional forms and add details, and you’ll develop the foundational skills to continue needle felting at home. You’ll come away with one or more completed mushrooms to keep or give as a gift.

Ages 11 and up

$35

Sign up here!

Sew a cozy kitty just in time for Halloween with Ari (they/them), and get creative with embroidered details! We will follow a sweet cat pattern by Aimee Ray together. You’ll come away with a bitty kitty cat (about 3 inches) with the option to turn it into a pin or ornament. Some basic hand sewing experience would be helpful for this class.

ages 12 and up

$40

Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will be shared with registrants a week before the session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

This week, Chris, a marine ecologist, will talk about the different sponge species found in Virginia. 

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up! This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

This session is a laid back, beginner friendly Introduction to Slow Stitching.

Slow stitching is a relaxing stitching practice which focuses on the PROCESS rather than perfection or a specific finished product. Yet, in my experience, results are beautiful and unique pieces of art that show the makers hand.

Slow Stitching can be a great way to reset, reduce stress or simply explore your own creativity.

We will explore the nature of slow stitching , several basic stitches, a bit about color, texture and how to select fabrics that enhance the meditative practice. All supplies are provided but feel free to bring your favorite fabric scraps to work with. These are guidelines to get started - there are no rules or patterns.

Start where you are: Beginners …those with sewing/embroidery experience …those seeking relaxation and a fun way to “calm the chaos” and get grounded. All are welcome. Anyone can do this!

Age 16 +

$20

Sign up here!

Bring your imagination and a love for color to this cozy, no-sew fabric art class! Using the Japanese technique of Kinusaiga, you’ll craft a 9” x 9” art panel from foam board and fabric scraps—turning leftover textiles into something beautiful. The studio will provide a variety of fabrics to choose from, but participants are also encouraged to bring their own special scraps or meaningful pieces to incorporate into their design. You’ll leave with a finished piece ready to hang and a newfound appreciation for fabric as an artistic medium.

ages 16 and up

$30

Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will become available a week before the first session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up!

This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!

This is a free weekly event, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Sign up here!

Do you like knitting AND the natural world around you? We have just the thing for you!

Join University of Virginia Environmental Sciences graduate students/fiber artists for a fall knit and learn. In this series, we will meet once a week and feature a graduate student who will talk to us about their research. You’ll learn about eel grass, oysters, bio char, flooding, air quality and more, all while working on your own knit project or a one of a kind scarf inspired by the subjects discussed during this class. The pattern* will become available a week before the first session and will be designed with stash busting in mind! Note that this is not a learn-to-knit class, and participants should feel comfortable with color work, knitting and purling, and knitting in the round.

This week, Luke, a marine biogeochemist, will tell the tale of the Virginia Coast Reserve seagrass restoration project.

Can't make every session? No problem! Stop by for as many or as few programs as you like. We'll get you caught up! This is a free event in our Book Nook, but please sign up so we have enough room for you. Thanks!

Sign up here!

*the image pictured here is not the pattern you will receive, but it will be similar

Join Emma as she teaches you the basics of crochet. Leave with a crochet hook and a small crocheted washcloth.

$35

age 12 and up

Sign up here!

Slow Stitch Sanctuary is a welcoming, open stitch circle for slow stitchers and hand‐sewers/stitchers of all types and levels. Whether you’re a beginner seeking a supportive start or an experienced hand stitcher wanting community, inspiration, and company while you stitch.

Join us for gentle, unhurried stitching time where community comes first.

We will be in the Book Nook at Scrappy Elephant on Fridays from 12-2 pm.

Drop in for whatever time you can, grab a cup of tea or coffee, share stories, seek advice, practice techniques, and support one another’s creative journeys. This is an informal, come as you are space for stitching, conversation, and just spending time with other creatives. Bring your own project or shop Scrappy for all you need to start your next one.

This is an inclusive, non-judgmental, and safe space where all creatives are welcomed and respected.

Contact: Carolyn Nowak

Feel free to join our email list for updates and upcoming slow stitch classes(optional)

Send email to Freespiritstitch@gmail.com with subject “subscribe “

For the crocheters, knitters, felters, embroiderers, needleworkers, tatters, quilters among us, join Charlotte in the Classroom (please come in through the side-door as this club begins after the store closes). Bring your current Work in Progress & get crafty!