Mobiles made from straw, paper, and reeds add movement and color to homes in many parts of Europe. In this workshop, three mobile makers, each working in different cultural traditions, will guide participants through methods and materials for creating these enticing dynamic forms. Mary Erickson will present himmeli: complex geometrical arrangements made from straw. Finnish immigrants brought himmeli to Minnesota, but their basic forms are found in many Northern and Eastern European countries. Britt Malec will teach pająki, Polish mobiles known for their eye-catching hues and ornate paper pompom techniques that are made to decorate, protect, or bless the rooms in which they hang. Mathilde Yakymets-Lind will introduce a rarely taught mobile-making tradition from the Aibofolk, or Estonian Swedes: the rookroon, a geometric mobile made from reeds and decorated with eggs and scraps of cloth. On the final day, we will all explore creative and improvisational mobile-making practices and experiment with new materials and techniques.

Skill/experience details: Previous experience with straw and paper crafts is helpful, but not required.

Physical ability note: Above average fine motor skills are helpful for this craft, as students will be threading needles, folding small pieces of paper, and tying several small knots.

Required Tools

• Container (non-food) to soak straw - at least about 9” long
• Old towel
• Paper bag
• Cardboard box to carry himmeli home

Optional Tools

• Feel free to bring the personal items you need to work comfortably on small hand tasks, seated or standing. (Ex: reading glasses, a chair cushion, etc.)