This intermediate class will focus on the embellishment aspect of penny rugs, taking this traditional folk art form to a whole other level of creative expression. The class is open to those that have previously taken a penny rug Class from North House or have experienced constructing penny rugs and basic hand sewing skills.

In this three-day class, students will explore various types of embellishments and nontraditional arrangements of the pennies. Students will construct small samples of the various examples for later reference or focus on a single penny rug (16 large pennies/shapes for the base) that displays various embroidery stitches and beadwork.

Materials for student selection will be included, such as various colors and kinds of embroidery threads, beads, buttons, silk ribbon, and wool roving. There will be pre-cut wool pennies available, along with uncut wool and templates for making personalized penny selections.

Basic sewing experience is needed for this course. Students ages 14+ may register for this course independently. Students ages 14+ may also register with a full-paying adult. Adult/child pairs will complete two projects and pay two materials fees. A 25% tuition discount applies to the youth registrant when registering with a full paying adult; call to register.

Required Tools

• Small sharp scissors

Optional Tools

• Eye glasses if needed
• You are welcome to bring flat beads, buttons and wool that have significant meaning for you such as buttons from your grandmother's button box.